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Scene 4: SLICED CRYSTAL

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday May 28th, 2019 2:05:19 PM
Lil dons her armor and straps Ramona in place.

Sol thanks Thich for being their guide after returning Haemir’s spellbook.

Caelwyn immediately straps on his armor and makes preparations to leave.

Bigby wonders out loud what happens if they are attacked near a crystal.

Haemir is uncomfortable with the thought of it throwing something from its own body. He sends Fand up to have a look. {ooc: What form does Fand’s report take, did not have time to look atm.}

Grindar requests that he and the monks lead the way saying that Xol, Xel and Haemir will stay close to the monks. The othes will take up the rear.

As the group prepares Thich speaks quietly. “It is not so dire as to run, prepare your spells being caught early here is better then traveling unprepared though a dangerous area.”

When preparation are complete the group begins to move, getting closer to the monks. As you approach you see they are ready to move our and leave the area to the crystals. Thich agrees with the pattern laid out with Grindar but says he will stay with the rear guard until all are clear of the crystals so he can sing.

One by one the monks intersperse themselves and move with the party singing as they go to keep control of the crystals. The whole party clears the first crystals which can be seen vibrating as you start to lose sight of them, clearly they will reach a critical point soon but you feel you will be far enough to avoid any personal damage.

In front of you you find two small indentation, a red-ish powdery reside lightly covers the inside of each of these and vegetation around them seems to be missing. Past the craters in front of the group are two red ooze like plat creatures, as those you fought before only larger. Behind you there is clearly something coming that may well be beyond your current abilities.

What do you do.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday May 28th, 2019 6:02:00 PM
Sol, seeing the ooze like creatures just calls back to his allies, not so loud as to disturb the singing, but just so he can be heard.

"There are more of those oozing monstrosities up here... I suspect we are between the proverbial rock and a hard place. Should we try to outrun them or fight them?"

He thinks.

"Could we disrupt the crystals and have them cause damage to those thing chasing us?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 21/21 5d6=20 ;
Tuesday May 28th, 2019 7:44:04 PM
With Cyrchwr Mawr held in his off hand, Grindar draws the Javelin of Lightning, the party took from the cannibal halflings, and says, "Unless someone objects, I'm going to wait until what ever is following us is within 120ft, and well within the area of the volatile crystals, and then I'm going to zap it's rear end to Gargul, and Sol if you would like to follow up with a Magic Missile, that would be awesome!!! Let's just hope that's enough to set off those crystals!!!"

If no one objects, the creature takes 20 damage (DC 14 reflex for 10) plus whatever the crystals do if they go off. If anyone objects, Grindar will stay his hand and return the Javelin of Lighting back to his javelin quiver, willing to follow whatever course of action the party decides.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday May 28th, 2019 9:00:02 PM
"If our path lies ahead, we might be better to cut our way through those oozes in front of us. Better the enemy we see and know we can defeat than an unknown force we are unsure about. Can we safely engage those oozes without setting off the crystals?"

He turns to Grindar. "I agree with your plan, IF we actually get a look at this thing pursuing us. But perhaps we should try to get to a more advantageous position first, or even find a refuge up ahead?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 11/11/10 - CMD 14
Tuesday May 28th, 2019 9:55:55 PM
'Lil takes time to prepare her spells, then.

***

"Umm...that's not a great idea, dude. Those crystals are pretty little, and that thing's pretty big. I don't think they'll mess it up nearly as bad as they'd mess us up. I think we need to push through quickly and keep moving."

'Lil takes Ramona off her back and blesses the party. "May as well deal with these things now anyway rather than wait and find ourselves trapped if that plan don't work."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday May 29th, 2019 11:15:21 AM
Looks like we are between some crystals and some soft spaces." Bigby casts magic fang on himself.to give him a +1 to att and dmg. if it's a fight to be, might as well be prepared. Wolfgang looks at the oozes and somehow feels acid in his mouth, like a bad hangover reaction.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday May 29th, 2019 3:06:17 PM
Behind you there is still the impression of a very large creature advancing slowly towards you. It is distant, a few hundred yards you would guess, but the direction is clear.

Sol quietly signals there are more oozing monstrosities up ahead saying they are between a rock and a hard place. He wonders if the crystals could damage the thing chasing them.

Grinda readies a Javelin of Lightning and readies to wait and throw the javelin at the crystals and creature behind them. Lil does not like this plan. "Umm...that's not a great idea, dude. Those crystals are pretty little, and that thing's pretty big. I don't think they'll mess it up nearly as bad as they'd mess us up. I think we need to push through quickly and keep moving. She suggest better to deal with those things in front to prevent being trapped.

Caelwyn lets the others know his thoughts and his question "If our path lies ahead, we might be better to cut our way through those oozes in front of us. Better the enemy we see and know we can defeat than an unknown force we are unsure about. Can we safely engage those oozes without setting off the crystals?" The monk closest nods at Caelwyn and continues his song. There is not a crystal close by. {ooc: Any crystal is off the map}

In front on the other side of the craters the grassy red ooze clearly have sensed your presence and both roll/slide/slither forward towards the group. An undulating mass extends from the northern most ooze, like a tentacle or arm, rears back as if to throw something as it moves.

What do you do?

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 11/11/10 - CMD 14 d20+2=16 ; 2d6+3=8 ;
Wednesday May 29th, 2019 3:25:40 PM
There is no way 'Lil wouldn't have been on the front lines as soon as there was an enemy to fight instead of 30' back. I hope you don't mind me fudging my starting position.

***

What am I gonna do? I'm gonna step forward and get ready to pound these stupid oozes.

Unfortunately, 'Lil can't reach'em in one round AND attack, so she moves up and gets ready to meet'em head on.

***

Move: Move up
Standard: Readied action - attack w/ Ramona if they get close. Hit AC 16 for 8 damage.

Active spells:

Bless

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=16 ; d3=1 ;
Wednesday May 29th, 2019 4:36:35 PM
Sol speaks up again to the rest of the party.

"Enemy front! We are going to have to push through these oozes!"

And with that he casts Ray of Frost at one of the oozes (16 to hit, 1 point of damage)

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzeld - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+5=18 ; d10+1=2 ;
Wednesday May 29th, 2019 7:30:26 PM
Haemir shoots at the creature to the south (Attack:16 - dmg:2) with his xbow. Meanwhile Fand is circling high above the big one further off

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday May 29th, 2019 7:35:59 PM
Caelwyn will immediately move forward to engage the northern ooze, trying to draw its attention away from the spellcasters. He advances on it with trident ready and shield held high, ready to meet its attack. He can't make it there this round, but covers as much distance as he can and takes a defensive action.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday May 30th, 2019 12:37:25 AM
Bigby will move up to where Lil is and ready for combat.

active spell magic fang.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 21/21
Thursday May 30th, 2019 5:57:36 AM
With Cyrchwr Mawr in hand, Grindar sprints towards the southern ooze, in an attempt to cut it off, and draw it away from the casters.

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzeld - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17
Thursday May 30th, 2019 11:15:32 AM
Haemir will move up behind Bigby & Lil to support them

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+5=17 ; d4=2 ;
Thursday May 30th, 2019 2:25:09 PM

Know Dungeon DC13 Highlight to display spoiler: { These are variation on a garden ooze. There touch will cause bleed damage. }

Lil moves quickly to intercept the approaching oozes, clearly she was not going to keep to the rear as Grindar had suggested earlier.

Sol advances to range and launches a shard of ice that sizzles into the closest of the creatures.

Caelwyn advances but cannot close the entire gap. Bigby also advances to close the distance and activates magic fang.

Grindar sprints towards the southern ooze to cut it off from the casters.

Haemir fires a crossbow bolt that sinks into the southern ozze before he moves up behind Bigby and Lil.

The monks move to join the battle but they do not make it quite to the hostile ooze yet. One of the monks hangs back and continues to sing as does Thich.

The northern ooze advances, stopping about five feet from the most forward combatants and lashes out at Lil. {Hit: 17 | Dam: 2}

The second ooze skirts to the side, it is unclear what it is head for. Perception 13 Highlight to display spoiler: { It would appear to be heading for the monks that are still singing. Probably the sound is attracting it. }

Blue Ooze: AC: 16/16/11 HP: -3
Red Ooze: AC: 16/16/11 HP:

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzeld - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17
Thursday May 30th, 2019 2:27:27 PM
Haemir will move up behind Bigby & Lil to support them

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 11/11/10 - CMD 14 d20+2=19 ; d20+6=10 ; 2d6+3=14 ;
Thursday May 30th, 2019 3:38:15 PM
"OOZE, YOU JUST WASTED YOUR WHOLE LIFE." 'Lil wastes no time turning on the ooze that attacked her, smashing Ramona into the thing.

Hit AC 19 for 14 damage.

Perception: 10.

***

Move: 5' step
Standard: Hit AC 19 for 14 damage.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 21/21 d20+4=6 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=16 ; d8+6=10 ;
Thursday May 30th, 2019 5:36:28 PM
dungeoneering check 6
Perception 24 "Hey guys it seems that the oozes are attracted to the monks singing", Grindar says while he steps up to the red ooze and and delivers a two handed attack dealing 10 damage.

Xel'Aw (Grant) 7/11 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 6 Dex Damage
Thursday May 30th, 2019 5:52:10 PM
Xel'Aw starts poeming, or however the verb form of poetry is supposed to be. It is his function, after all.

Inspire Courage - From the Paizo Bard page A 1st-level bard can use his performance to inspire courage in his allies (including himself), bolstering them against fear and improving their combat abilities. To be affected, an ally must be able to perceive the bard's performance. An affected ally receives a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. At 5th level, and every six bard levels thereafter, this bonus increases by +1, to a maximum of +4 at 17th level. Inspire courage is a mind-affecting ability. Inspire courage can use audible or visual components. The bard must choose which component to use when starting his performance.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=12 ; d20+1=7 ; d3=2 ;
Thursday May 30th, 2019 7:13:31 PM
Sol continues to fling magical cold beams at the Ooze.

"We must fell them quickly lest we get caught by whatever is chasing us!"

((Perception - 12, Attack 7, Damage 2))

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+6=23 ; d8+4=7 ;
Thursday May 30th, 2019 8:57:52 PM
Caelwyn glances at Grindar, who is charging the southern ooze alone. He decides it will be best to kill the northern ooze as fast as possible, then to go and support the half-orc. "Out of our way, slime - we don't have time for you today!" Caelwyn closes the gap to the northern ooze and attacks with his trident.

Attack 23, Damage 7

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzeld - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=13 ; d20=9 ;
Friday May 31st, 2019 2:10:09 AM
(Perception:13) Haemir spots where the creature is going but for now performs his signature Storm Blast missing...

Bigbywolf - Carl subbing d20+5=24 ; d20+5=7 ; d6+1=4 ; d6+1=3 ;
Friday May 31st, 2019 12:26:15 PM
Bigby watches on as 'Lil and Caewlyn slaughter the closest ooze. He nods approvingly, then guides Wolfgang through the crowd and heads to back up Grindar. He fires a bolt at the remaining ooze as they approach.

Hit AC 20 (crit confirm 3) - 4 damage (7 total if crit, unlikely as that is)

*forgot to add the -4 for firing into a melee

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+5=10 ;
Friday May 31st, 2019 2:08:55 PM
Xel starts pomeing to support and aid his companions. {ooc: pomeing - its canon now}

Haemir moves up behind Bigby and Lil to support them while Lil steps up and lands a heavy blow on the ooze. Its form quivers but it does not lose form. Elijah’s beam of ice goes wide of its target but Caelwyn closes the game and lands a solid bow with his trident. The ooze shakes, shudders and pops in a shower of red goo mixed with grass. Perception DC13 Highlight to display spoiler: { You get the feeling if this ooze had been more mature this goo would be harmful in some way. }

Grindar lets the others know that the second ooze appeared to be trying to get around the group to the singing monks before landing a blow on the remaining ooze. Bigby chares across the area firing a crossbow bolt as he comes. The bolt sinks in causing some damage.

The remaining ooze sloshes and slaps at Grindar but cannot connect with its blow. {Hit: 10}

The three monk advance and Thich continues to bring up the rear, stay near Xel to cover him if needed.

_____________________________________________
*DEAD* Blue Ooze: AC: 16/16/11 | HP: -25 *DEAD*
Red Ooze: AC: 16/16/11 | HP: -10 HP

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=21 ; d20+1=17 ; d3=2 ;
Friday May 31st, 2019 2:23:56 PM
Sol follows up his poor show, with another Ray of Frost on the remaining Ooze.

"Come on, have at them!"

((Perception passed, 21. Attack 17, Damage 2))

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=6 ; d20+2=17 ;
Friday May 31st, 2019 8:09:29 PM
Perception 6

Noticing nothing unusual, Caelwyn leaves the northern ooze to dribble into the grasses and immediately heads south. He cannot get there in one turn, but will move as quickly as possible to help Grindar and Bigby against the next ooze. As he runs, he looks behind them to see if the shadowy, threatening figure is still pursuing them.

Perception 17

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 21/21 d20+6=20 ; d20+6=18 ; d8+4=10 ; d8+4=11 ;
Saturday June 1st, 2019 7:35:14 AM
Grindar lashes out with both ends of Cyrchwr Mawr connection both times against the ooze

main hand
hits AC 20 for 10+1=11 damage

off hand
hits AC 18 for 11+1=12 damage

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzeld - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+1=17 ; d6+1=6 ;
Saturday June 1st, 2019 8:01:44 AM
Haemir moves to (15,U) and stormblasts the second ooze (Touch Attack:16 - for 7 dmg & possibly grants -2 to oozes next attack round) (includes poem bonus).

Fand is high above the second ooze.

"I have a possible plan.. we could retreat from the bigger ooze and Fand could drop the thunderstone she's wearing around her neck... the boom would set off the crystals ... but I have no idea if that would be wide spread... Any thoughts Thich"?

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 11/11/10 - CMD 14
Saturday June 1st, 2019 2:03:07 PM
'Lil takes a double move to get closer to the last ooze, stopping just short of opening herself up to an attack as she does so.

"Sounds like a neat plan, but we'd probably be better just pounding the thing and then moving on before that terror descending on us eats everyone."

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzeld - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17
Sunday June 2nd, 2019 2:07:10 PM
"I', on about the terror"..

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=8 ;
Sunday June 2nd, 2019 11:41:00 PM
Bigby moves to v 19 and attacks the ooze with a claw attack (8 swing and a miss). Bigby somehow cant' shake the feeling that he's being outplayed by gelatin.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Monday June 3rd, 2019 2:45:17 PM
Sol barely makes it close enough but doe mange to connect with another ray of frost.

Caelwyn laves the northern ooze and heading south getting closer to the remaining target. As he looks he still sees disturbances far off in the grass to show they are being pursued.

Bigby from attacks with claw and misses which might be just as well as he can be sure the acid would have burned again. Grindar lands two blows on the remaing ooze and it too quivers and pops in a shower of red goo mixed with grass.

Haemir moves but can save his spell as the attacks from Grindar have finished off the ooze. He does announce his plan "I have a possible plan.. we could retreat from the bigger ooze and Fand could drop the thunderstone she's wearing around her neck... the boom would set off the crystals ... but I have no idea if that would be wide spread... Any thoughts Thich"?

Thich catches up as you Haemir asks for his thoughts. “I do not know what it is that follows up. Clearly something corrupted as many things were during the return of the Sargrass. Your plan might work, I do not think there is a consistency to the strength of the crystals explosions so it is unlikely to be a death blow.” he looks back “Maybe it will slow I so we can reach our goal? Maybe kill it? Maybe make things worse, who is to say.”

Lil moves closer stopping just short of the now dead ooze. "Sounds like a neat plan, but we'd probably be better just pounding the thing and then moving on before that terror descending on us eats everyone."

The monks catch up with the group and continue their song as they move to three sides of the party. It would appear they are attempting to cover as much area as possible despite there being no crystals around that you can see.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 11/11/10 - CMD 14
Monday June 3rd, 2019 2:57:25 PM
'Lil's disappointed to see Grindar popped the last ooze before she could have'a wack at it, but what'cha gonna do?

"So, time to move, yea? I worship the god'a bravery, not the god'a dying to prove how tough you are. Let's get."

With that, 'Lil's ready to beat feet.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday June 3rd, 2019 4:36:55 PM
Sol chuckles at 'Lil's words.

"That does seem like a wise idea Lil. I second it."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 21/21
Monday June 3rd, 2019 5:27:36 PM
"Let's make a break for it, while we can, but if there is a chance that Fand's thunderstone might slow it down, it's worth try", Grindar says. He then adds, "I can hurl the Javelin of Lighting at it as well, maybe the combination of the lighting and exploding crystals will be enough to drop it, or at least make it reconsider attacking us".

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday June 3rd, 2019 9:23:55 PM
"Let's move, quickly! That...thing is coming." Caelwyn glances behind them. "Grindar, I agree, but let's use that plan as a last resort, if it gets close enough to actually think about attacking us. It would be ideal if we could outdistance it to a safe location."

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzled - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 7:02:42 AM
Haemir shouts to Fand: "Fand .. wait till we are clear and drop the stone on it...".

Reloading his xbow he continues "Let's go"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 11:51:20 AM
hearing what everyone has to say, and mulling over what a real hero would do...he decides to run for it with everyone else. [i]I guess a real hero would live.[/b]

Xel'Aw (Grant) 7/11 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 6 Dex Damage
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 1:36:39 PM
Xel'Aw follows Bigby. He's not some adventurer hero or bound to a courage diety like Lil. Nah, running is totally good in the books - I mean, you can't write the books if you get killed in the action.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20=20 ; 8d6=34 ;
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 3:40:35 PM
lil is disappointed that Grindar popped the last ooze and wants to get moving. Sol agrees with beating feet.

Grindar likes the idea of the thunderstone and suggest his javelin of lightning as well. Looking back whatever is coming is too far back for the javelin at this point though.

Haemir agrees with he stone wanting the group to be clear, which they are by quite some bit. Bigby too agrees that this is the best action because a dead hero can do no further heorics. Xel follows Bigby’s assessment.

Several hundred yards back a fetching blue parrot circles far above the perusing gargantuan creature. It has its orders and waits for the proper moment. Though the birds eyes you would see a very large, one could say gargantuan, mass of writhing vines and ooze. This one is different in more then size because there is a clear front and it is motivate to smash along after the brave heroes it chases. As its front nears the crystals the monks had been singing too the stone falls from the parrots grasp. {Rolled an attack, anything but a 1 I was making dead on….. the roll was a 20!}

The stone rotates at it falls, its almost pretty to watch if you did not know what force it contains. It strikes the crystal at the same moment the creature would have passed it directly to its right. If an ear was near it would hear the defining roar as the magic in the stone activates. The sound waves push out and cause a ripple in the creature doing little, what is done to the crystal is another matter. Having landed directly on an imperfection the crystal detonates followed by two more nearby crystals. Dirt, crystal and at least some part of the creature are flun high into the air, don’t worry gentle readers, Fand dodges it easily.

The bird looks down at the result and makes a beeline for Haemir to tell his story.

The group is moving but within 42 seconds of the explosion the parrot arrives.

Hamir Highlight to display spoiler: {
{OOC: Haemir I would give the actual words use to you, you should dictate the voice. The message is that Fand is very proud of his amazing accuracy. The explosion was a site to behold and the total mass of the creature is greatly reduced though it is not dead. {34 Damage.} While not dead it is smaller now only huge. }

Ahead of you, fifty to seventy yards away, you can now see four smaller ooze creatures, clearly results of earlier ooze ejections, headed towards the group. They are not as fast as you could be bypassed but doing so would risk being fatigued. {DC10 Fort or Fatigued after the thirty minutes it will take to avoid}

What do you do? Prepare for battle or avoid this problem?

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzled - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+4=7 ;
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 4:23:24 PM
Fand does a barrel role as she flies back towards the group... As she catches up she craws: "It was a gargantuan mass of writhing rubbish but I got it good. Blew bits off everywhere, buuut it's still huge..."

Haemir fires a bolt that goes wide at one of the oozes up front as he runs.

"Shall we deal with these and then javelin the beast as it gets nearer"?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=10 ; d3=2 ;
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 5:23:20 PM
Sol shrugs at Haemir's suggestion.

"I am no certain we would be capable of taking it friend, running may be the wiser option... but if the others will want to fight, I will too."

He prepares for a fight but doesn't start it himself.

((Prepare an Action, if others attack the Oozes, Sol will cast Ray of Frost at the nearest ooze 10 to hit and 2 damage))

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 21/21 d20+4=20 ; d6+4=8 ;
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 5:23:46 PM
"Works for me Brother!" Grindar says in answer to Haemir's question, He then draws a mundane javelin, hustles forward 20ft, and hurls it at the closest of the smaller oozes.

Hits AC 20 for 8 damage

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzled - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 5:39:31 PM
"To be clear Sol, I'm not saying we fight it... I'm saying when it gets near we give it the same treatment again, this time with the Javelin"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=19 ; d8+2=7 ;
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 9:45:17 PM
"Let's take care of this smaller ones, I suppose..." Caelwyn pulls out his masterwork composite longbow and fits an arrow to the string, advancing to within range of the closest ooze. As soon as he is within range, he will loose the arrow.

Attack 19, Damage 8 (should have been d8+3, sorry)

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+4=8 ;
Tuesday June 4th, 2019 10:06:50 PM
**'Lil's bless spell should still be in effect!

"and here I was thinkin' we would end up runnin' around these things. You guys are all right."

'Lil readies Ramona and charges at the closest ooze (the one within 50'), but it's hard to charge with the big 'ol hammer...

***

Full round: Charge and attack closest ooze. Hit AC 8 - almost certainly a miss.

AC at -2 until next round.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+3=11 ; d6=2 ;
Wednesday June 5th, 2019 2:17:07 PM
Bigby will take out his crossbow a move and use it to strike the blob. (11 att, 2 dmg if hit). Bigby adjusts his life philosophy for the moment, well if everyone else is going to fight, then I guess running away wouldn't be heroic

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday June 5th, 2019 2:56:58 PM
Haemir suggests waiting for the great beast to near and using the javelin. Sol shrugs at Haemir’s suggest thinking it is wiser to run. Haemir clarifies that the idea is to wait, javelin and then run if needed. {ooc: At least that is what the GM think is being said}

Grindar is fine with Haemir’s idea and readies a javelin but cannot throw yet as the smaller oozes are too far off.

Caelwyn readies and arrow and lets fly when the smaller oozes get in range, at 100 feet. The arrow connects sinking in. The ooze continue forward and when he can Grindar throws a javelin which connects with the lead ooze. Bigby adds to the artillery attack by firing off a crossbow bolt.

Lil readies and starts charging the moment the lead ooze pokes out from around a rocky area. Her stride is long and powerful but her aim is off and she fails to connect with Ramona. The ooze lashes back but it to misses. {Hit: 10}

The monks drift off to investigate a few rock formation to insure there are not crystal surprises to be found in the. {ooc: Rock areas are difficult terrain.}

The ooze continue to advance on the party front.

Behind the large creature is still far off, it would be some time before it catches up with the party. Still Fand knows it is moving quicker then you would expect for something so large.

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/11 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 ACTIVE: Inspire Courage

Wednesday June 5th, 2019 4:32:54 PM
Xel'Aw is winded from catching up with the group. Carrying his pack is heavy, and speaking to rhyme too difficult for a bit.

"This greater fear chases us
But our courage does not lie
As our enemies die
But as we battle them thus."

Inspire Courage - From the Paizo Bard page A 1st-level bard can use his performance to inspire courage in his allies (including himself), bolstering them against fear and improving their combat abilities. To be affected, an ally must be able to perceive the bard's performance. An affected ally receives a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. At 5th level, and every six bard levels thereafter, this bonus increases by +1, to a maximum of +4 at 17th level. Inspire courage is a mind-affecting ability. Inspire courage can use audible or visual components. The bard must choose which component to use when starting his performance.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 21/21 d20+4=22 ; d8+4=11 ; d8+4=7 ; d6+4=5 ;
Wednesday June 5th, 2019 5:17:12 PM
Grindat moves 20ft which puts him within 30ft of the southern ooze. As he moves he draws another Javelin and hurls it at the ooze
Hits AC 22 for 5 damage

Please ignore the d8 rolls I messed up

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 21/21
Wednesday June 5th, 2019 5:18:58 PM
oops, forgot to add the 1 from Xel'Aw's poem so the damage is 6 from Grindar's javelin.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=17 ; d3=3 ;
Wednesday June 5th, 2019 6:29:08 PM
((OoC: I'm assuming Sol's first Ray of Frost missed?))

Sol will move so he's about ten feet behind Lil, and fire another Ray of Frost at the Ooze (17 to hit, 3 damage)

"We had best keep pressing on through these creatures..."

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzled - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+5=24 ; d6+2=7 ;
Thursday June 6th, 2019 12:12:31 PM
Haemir steps forward and stormblasts the creature on Lil or if dead next nearest (attack:20 if in to combat/24 if not for 7 dmg- gives creature -2 to attack roll for a round. Need to be within 30')

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20=18 ; d6+1=3 ;
Thursday June 6th, 2019 12:19:26 PM
Bigby will reload his crossbow and attack at the blob in front of 'lil (18 with the -4 added, 3 dmg, with the bard's help).

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+3=11 ; 2d6+4=15 ;
Thursday June 6th, 2019 2:40:31 PM
'Lil's feeling pretty pumped between her bless spell and Xel's singin'. Let's see if that translates to anything.

...nope!

***

Hit AC 11 for 15 damage on the off chance that hits.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+3=21 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ;
Thursday June 6th, 2019 2:48:43 PM
Xel catches up and continues, despite being out of breath, inspiring the group.

Grindar moves forward and buries another javelin in an ooze as they approach.

Sol, having missed with his last spell, moves up and this time connects with a shard of ice while calling to the others “We had best keep pressing on thought these creatures…”

Haemir steps up near Bigby and calls forth a stormblast dealing more damage to the blue ooze.

Bigby holds his position and firest andother bolt at the blue blod again hitting his target.

The ooze facing Lil is in bad shape but her swing is…. not good at all really, missing by five inches. Even the effects of Haemir’s spell cannot save her from some damage.. {Hit: 21 | Dam: 1+3 acid}

The other three oozes continue their slow advance towards the part leaving a light film of filth behind them.

The monk in blue moves up to intercept the northern {red} ooze so it cannot get to the castere. His song has stopped and in a horse voice he mumbles. “Going to melt me hand hitting this like the poor wolf’s mount.”

The other monks advance as well including Thich who comes up near Sol.

Far behind you, hundreds of yards, your pursuer peruses.

_______________________

Red Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP:
Green Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -13
Blue Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -18 | -2 on Attacks 1/1
Yellow Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -6

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=4 ; d3=2 ;
Thursday June 6th, 2019 6:06:59 PM
Sol tries to cast another spell at the one in front of Lil, in an attempt to reduce their numbers as fast as possible.

((Attack - 4 Damage - 2))

"CURSES!!"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+3=23 ; d20+3=9 ; d8+4=10 ;
Thursday June 6th, 2019 7:17:02 PM
Caelwyn moves forward, next to Haemir, and lets fly another arrow at the northern-most ooze. "Another arrow, and then its time to get in there..." he thinks to himself.

Not the worlds greatest archer, Caelwyn is amazed at his own accuracy, and the arrow sinks deep into the ooze in front of him.

Attack: Nat 20! Not sure if a 9 to confirm quite does it?

Damage: If no crit, 10 damage. If crit is accepted, 30 damage, I believe? x3 crit with longbow?

ACDM Ninja edit: Crit damage is rolled multiple times, not just multiplied. In this case, you'd roll 3d10 for a crit, not 1d10x3. I didn't know this until recently when Cayzle called me out on it. That dude will get you every time...

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=7 ;
Friday June 7th, 2019 1:51:00 AM
Bigby reloads his crossbow and fires at the green ooze (assuming it doesn't have cover, otherwise fire at one of the others). att: 7. "Take that!" just going to pretend to the others that I'm contributing here. "ha ha!" Wolgang rolls his eyes at Bigby.

'Lil - (Carl) - 12/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+3=8 ;
Friday June 7th, 2019 2:06:25 AM
Seems 'Lil's either poundin' the stuffing outta the bad guys, or poundin' the stuffing outta the ground. No in between.

This round, she pounds ground.

Hit AC 8. Miss.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 21/21 d20+6=17 ; d20+6=8 ; d8+5=10 ;
Friday June 7th, 2019 4:44:36 AM
Grindar takes a 5ft step and releases a full round attack on the yellow ooze. hitting with his main hand, but swinging wild with his off hand.

Main hand Hit AC 17 for 10 damage

Off hand misses

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzled - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+5=16 ; d6+2=6 ;
Friday June 7th, 2019 11:08:05 AM
Haemir storm blasts the green ooze (ranged touch attack:16 for 6 dmg & -2 to its hits roll for a round)

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/11 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 ACTIVE: Inspire Courage
Friday June 7th, 2019 1:30:24 PM
Xel'Aw continues poetry as he walks [/i](double movement)[/i] between Thich and Sol and to get behind 'Lil (O7)

"Squash the oozes now
Healers we have in spades
Clear forward thus how!"

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+5=14 ; d3=3 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+5=21 ; d4=1 ; d4=1 ; d20+4=14 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+4=12 ;
Friday June 7th, 2019 1:40:42 PM
Sol again launches a spell at the ooze squared off with Lil but cannot connect. Caelwyn moves next to Haemir and connects with another arrow, it is a good shot but not as good as it could have been. Bigby fires off an attack at the green ooze but misses by a solid foot.

Lil again swings at the ooze but cannot connect and pounds the ground again. Grindar steps in while drawing blades and lands a deep cut on the yellow ooze.

Haemir launches off another storm blast that finishes off the green ooze. Xel moves up behind the other encouraging the companions to squash the oozes.

The monks move up and each tries to land a single blow on the ooze. Sadly all, even the red who is flanking, miss. {Hit: 14/11/12} It is clear they are not the most practiced combantants.

The remaining three oozes continue to move forward and now all are in a position to attack. The red ooze meets a monk but misses its attack. {Hit: 14} The blue ooze misses Lil and looks to be in very rough shape. {hit: 15) The final, yellow, ooze manages to connect with a wet slap on Grindar but for mimimal damage. {Hit: 21 | Dam: 1+1 acid}

Far behind you know the inevitable and unseen larger ooze moves forward.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/21 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+6=11 ; d8=2 ;
Friday June 7th, 2019 4:57:55 PM
Grindar swings Cyrchwr Mawr for another full round attack.

main hand natural 20 with a 17 confirmation. (to bad oozes are immune to crits) for 6 damage

off hand misses

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+6=14 ; d8+4=7 ;
Friday June 7th, 2019 10:15:53 PM
Caelwyn glances behind him as he pulls out his trident. "Let's hurry this up, people. That thing is coming, and I don't think we want to be here when it arrives."

He promptly moves forward and attacks the red ooze, stabbing at it with his trident.

Attack: 14 Damage: 7

'Lil - (Carl) - 12/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+3=20 ; 2d6+3=15 ;
Friday June 7th, 2019 11:23:18 PM
'Lil screams in frustration and, proving once again that she works better when angry, she brings Ramona crashing down on the stupid blue ooze.

Hit AC 20 for 15 damage.

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzled - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+1=5 ;
Saturday June 8th, 2019 4:20:12 AM
Haemir fires a Storm Blast at the red Ooze missing

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+3=7 ;
Sunday June 9th, 2019 12:36:50 PM
Bigby reloads and fires another crossbow bolt at the same ooze or another one if dead. att 7.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=6 ;
Monday June 10th, 2019 4:22:46 AM
Sol, frustrated at his lack of connecting with the ooze, fires another Ray of Frost, and completely misses again.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+4=21 ; d6+3=9 ; d6=4 ; d20+5=11 ;
Monday June 10th, 2019 1:25:40 PM
Grindar connects with a powerful blow, against a creature of greater complexity it clearly would have been even more powerful. Still it is enough to pop the ooze he was facing.

Caelwyn urges his companions haste, steps up and hastily misses the target of his trident.

Bigby, Haemir and Sol each miss their respective attacks but Lil connects. Her blow is mighty compressing the side of the ooze near her and popping the far side. A spray of slimy blood red grass rockets away from her.

The green monk lands a solid blow on the remaining ooze (Hit: 21 | Dam: 9} but burns his hand in the process and grimaces in pain. The ooze lashes back at the monk but misses as well.

One badly damaged ooze is left. Those near the northern ooze also, out of the corner of their eye, catch what looks to be a relatively new wagon wheel laying next to a rock. There may be another few pieces boards laying there as well.

Oh, and behind you, well you know….

_______________________

Red Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -19
*DEAD* Green Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -23 *DEAD*
*DEAD* Blue Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -33 *DEAD*
*DEAD* Yellow Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -22 *DEAD*

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=3 ;
Monday June 10th, 2019 3:07:56 PM
Sol flings another Ray Of Frost, but it goes wide.

"WHY CAN I NOT HIT ANYTHING TODAY?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=15 ; d6+2=6 ;
Monday June 10th, 2019 4:25:51 PM
Bigby frustrated with modern contraptions decides to put away the crossbow with his move. He will then cast guidance on Haemir giving him a plus 1 to attack. Wolfgang then moves carefully around the ooze to n2 and attempts to bite the ooze knowing full well this may hurt if it connects, (15 att, 6dmg).

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/21
Monday June 10th, 2019 5:04:02 PM
Grindar makes a double move action, making sure to skirt the so as to avoid the rough terrain, in an attempt to get closer to the final ooze.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+6=21 ; d8+4=12 ;
Monday June 10th, 2019 8:55:08 PM
"Get out of our way, slime!" Caelwyn stabs at the ooze again with his trident, plunging his trident into the heart of the creature.

Attack 21, Damage 12

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzled - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=3 ; d20+2=8 ;
Tuesday June 11th, 2019 5:55:12 AM
Feeling Bigby's spell tingle through him Haemir steps to one side to get a better shot at the last Ooze, as he does his ankle catches on a root and he face plants ground unceremoniously missing with the Storm Blast in just about the worst way possible. (nat:1). For a second he wonders what spell Bigby cast but then says out loud: "Are these oozes lucky or what"...?

Getting back to his feet (move action) he stares back at the approaching menace.

"Monks are there army more crystals we can lead that thing by?"

Fand swoops around to give the next person attacking flanking (missing with her own attack)

'Lil - (Carl) - 12/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Tuesday June 11th, 2019 9:22:50 AM
'Lil makes her way up to the last ooze, but Caewlyn's taken care of it. For a moment, 'Lil wonders how much better she'd be with Ramona if she hadn't had to do all that clergy stuff. She shoves the thought violently away and slaps Caewlyn on the back. "Atta'boy, C. Now time to go, yea?" 'Lil's already heading away from the big bad thing coming their way.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday June 11th, 2019 2:16:50 PM
Bigby casts a spell to improve Haemirs accuracy and charges forward towards the ooze. Haemir bolstered by the spell starts to cast, steps to one side for a better shot and catches his ankle before tumbling to the ground. Dusting himself off he questions the luck of the oozes.

Sol launches another ray of frost that misses by a country mile. Grindar closes but is not in time. Caelwyn finally brings down the final ooze that pops just as the others had.

Lil makes he way over and congratuls Caelwyn "Atta'boy, C. Now time to go, yea?"

With the ooze dead Haemir asks the monks “Monks, are they any more crystals we can lead that thing by?”

The green monk, wrapping a cloth on his burnt hand, responds looking the direction you are moving. His voice is horse from the singing they have been doing and talking is clearly a strain. “That way but not many. We should hit one if were lucky. Looks like someone else is moving there too.” Gesturing to the broken wheel.

Inspecting the wheel you find that it is indeed a brightly painted wagon wheel with very fresh damage. Tracks of horses and some footprints can be seen in the soil.

Survival DC08 Highlight to display spoiler: { Several wagons, at least three, one you would guess rigged a sort of sled to replace the damaged wheel. }

Survival DC12 Highlight to display spoiler: { You would guess they are thirty minutes ahead of you, half way to your destination. }

Also near the wheel are some other damaged boards, painted garishly. One has the letters n’ Eels painted on it.

You know what is behind you so no need to dwell on it now is there.

What are you doing now?

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzled - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+5=20 ;
Tuesday June 11th, 2019 2:51:28 PM
Haemir studies the wheel and soil nearby, the bang to his head seems to haven woken him up as the details seem super clear to him (Survival:25).

"Looks like enough tracks for several wagons, maybe at least three? Maybe one is running slow... Probably half an hour ahead of us. We need to head that way anyway so, let's get to it. Fand scout ahead will you?"

Fand flies up and ahead ...

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=5 ;
Tuesday June 11th, 2019 3:40:43 PM
Sol just looks at the wagon confused.

"I have no idea what has happened to it, it was obviously damaged, I assume it was attacked by something. Perhaps we could follow the other Wagons that Haemir believes there to be?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/21 d20+7=23 ;
Tuesday June 11th, 2019 5:00:39 PM
Survival 23

Grindar confirms what Haemir says as they examine the wheel, tracks, and debris, adding, "They could be in danger, we need to catch up with them!" He finishes by saying, "Maybe they can offer some help against our stalker".

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=19 ;
Tuesday June 11th, 2019 10:41:17 PM
"Let's go!" Caelwyn glances over his shoulder as he urges the others forward. "Hopefully we catch up to these folks, maybe we can be of help to each other. But it won't make a difference if that thing catches us first..." He immediately moves forward at whatever pace the others can manage, keeping his eyes out for danger before and behind them.

Perception 19

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - Status: Dazzled - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=8 ;
Wednesday June 12th, 2019 5:37:11 AM
Fand swoops up high (Perception:8) and tries to see what's ahead and if she can catch up.

Xel'Aw (Sub - Rich)
Wednesday June 12th, 2019 9:47:20 AM
Seeing the last of the small oozes drop Xel'Aw breaths a sigh of relief and collects his thoughts.

"And all that could now be heard
was the pitter-patter of feet,
''Tis time to run my away my friends
The time to be discreet"...

Then with a bow to his audience ...

He legs it.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+4=10 ; d6=6 ;
Wednesday June 12th, 2019 9:53:24 AM
'Lil looks at the ruts in the ground, then at Grindar. "You can tell all that from some lines in mud? That's brilliant."

Noticing she's bleeding, and that a few others are hurt, 'Lil channels some positive energy. "There, that's better. Now, time to run, yea?"

'Lil starts moving.

***

6 HP healed.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+9=24 ;
Wednesday June 12th, 2019 11:16:19 AM
Bigby and Wolfgang move with the party towards the wagons. perhaps best that the party all gets there together, afterall don't know what other problems may occur or if we need the monks for the crystals, but if needed, we (wolfgang and I) can get there quicker. (survival 24).

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday June 12th, 2019 12:11:24 PM
Seeing that she and others are hurt Lil channels to heal up the team {Healing: 6} before complimenting Grindar on his tracking ability.

Haemir lets the group know that there are tracks leading from the broken wagon wheel. Several wagons, one is running slow and they are about half an hour away. He quickly sends Fand to investigate. Grindar confirms Haemir’s ideas and suggest they move to offer help or possible even find an allie.

Sol looks, thinking someone said wagon, but only finds a broken when and a few boards.

Caelwyn agrees and gets the party moving. Xel sighs with relief and collects his thoughts while finishing his verse. With a bow he gets moving with the others.

As the party moves Fand’s bright blue form flashes though the sky circles, swoops and heads back.

Calewyn is the first to spot the circle of wagons ahead. Each is brightly painted looking like traveling merchants or maybe a circus, there is activity but he is not close enough to see what is happening. He does see Fand flying back first as well.

Fand swoops down landing on Haemir shoulder and starts quickly letting him know what was seen.

Fand relays what he saw on his flite as the group keeps hustling forward. Five wagons in a circle there were people in the wagons firing off crossbows as well as a few on the ground. One thing he did note is that it appeared there was a boy holding what looked like a wooden great sword. The crossbows were firing at more of the oozes that appeared to be moving towards the wagons. Also there may have been a dead body by the oozes, of which he saw three. The oozes seemed to be back near the body as the bolts kept flying. The people in the wagons are not good shots.

In all you have made it about half way to the wagons by the time the bird is back and relays its message.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday June 12th, 2019 1:35:24 PM
Sol looks deeply concerned.

"We should go and help them!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/21
Wednesday June 12th, 2019 5:17:49 PM
When Grindar hears Fand's report he springs into action. He begins to run as fast as his powerful legs can carry him oblivious to everything but the fact that people are dyeing. He yells over his shoulder, as he departs, "Follow as you can!".

As Grindar approaches the wagon train he yells out, "Don't shoot, I'm here to help!"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=7 ;
Wednesday June 12th, 2019 9:28:50 PM
"More of these bloody things, Domi curse them..." Caelwyn mutters to himself. With a glance over his shoulder to get an idea of how quickly they are being pursued, he hurries after Grindar as quickly as he can. His trident is ready to throw at the nearest ooze as soon as he is within range.

Perception 7

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17
Thursday June 13th, 2019 7:48:44 AM
Haemir starts to run as well, looking first how far behind Cthulhu is.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Thursday June 13th, 2019 10:06:49 AM
"Don't much think they're intelligent, Caelwyn. Probably don't give a darn if they're cursed or not."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday June 13th, 2019 10:28:54 AM
Bigby will keep up with party after the wagons until there's something better he can do.

ooc: in response to Riches Cthulhu. Ph'nglui mglw'nafh Cthulhu R'lyeh wgah'nagl fhtagn

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20=4 ;
Thursday June 13th, 2019 1:59:52 PM
Map updated

The group, having noticed the tracks and the broken wagon wheel, moves off at as much of a run as possible on uneven ground covered in thick tall grass that has razor sharp areas. Still make good time. Grindar Son of Grindor is the first to moves and runs for all he is worth, sadly his heaver armor stops him form outpacing the others as he had hoped. He is probably realizing that, armed and armor, he is no faster then a dwarf with a burning beard heading for a well.

The monks have been singing for some time and are a bit winded, they run but not quite as fast. Those with more armor pull ahead, fearing the grass less, but all arrive at close to the same time just with some less than conventional spacing.

After a short time, the circle of wagons comes into view. The wagons themselves are multicolored with signs and adverts can be seen hanging form their sides. Things are happening too fast to stop and read but there are many colors; purple for the biggest wagon, yellow with bird cages and fish tanks, red, green and finally one of bare wood. In the center are at least a dozen horses, eyes wide with fear as the stomp the ground snorting and ready to run. They are held in place with a very light rope, probably something they could break to escape before anything could kill them.

From windows and under tarps many light crossbows stick out launching a bolt as fast an unpracticed person can manage to do it. Many of the bolts go wide some landing many yards from the target and one, shot the wrong way, nearly clips Caelwyn as he approaches.

To the south of the cart are three of the seemingly abundant oozes. They pulsate and flow around each other as they move over a dead body that there acid dissolves. You do not see many crossbow bolts sticking form them an assume that the meal is more interesting then the threat that the crossbows pose.

A boy has just scampered from the wagon as a high voice yells to him “Blain no! You will die!” The youth, probably 11, yells back. “ITS BROM NOW AND YOUR TISHE’!" the quiet to himself" "Not Blain and Daphne!” He wears what at first looks to by mithril plate but is quickly seen to be a wooden theatrical version of the armor although his breastplate seems real enough. In his hands he holds what is clearly a wooden, though good quality, greatsword. As you close the boy lets out his best battle cray and charges at the red ooze, his floppy red hair bounces as he runs. His small muscles flex as he swings missing his target. The oozes quiver and start to move away form their meal.

As the sword swings the higher voice yells again. “NO!” The girl, maybe 13 with read hair, who yelled hops from the cart. She carries a staff with a piece of green glass in the end and, as anyone who can cast a spell recognizes, attempts and fails to cast acid splash.

In side the wagons there is jostling and calls of dismay as the adults begin to climb out of the wagons only to stop and stare as you all arrive on the scene.

The scene stands in tableau as the party arrives on the scene.

Map updated

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 21/21 d20=7 ; d20+4=18 ; d6+4=7 ;
Thursday June 13th, 2019 5:18:43 PM
Seeing the kid putting himself in harms way, Grindar tries to run for one more round in hopes of forcing himself between the ooze and the boy, however he just doesn't have the endurance to pull it off (needed a 10 or higher, rolled a 7). All he can manage is to move 20ft while drawing a javelin and then hurling said javelin at the ooze. as he prepares to hurl the javelin he yells out, "Get back Kid, I don't want to accidentally hit the great Brom with my Javelin!"

Hits AC 18 for 7 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d4+1=4 ;
Thursday June 13th, 2019 6:32:53 PM
Sol rushes forward and immediately focuses and aims a Magic Missile at the Ooze the kids was fighting. ((4 damage to the ooze))

"Get back, we are here to help. You must be ready to run, something less savoury was chasing us..."

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+3=4 ;
Thursday June 13th, 2019 10:46:21 PM
"BIGBY MOVE!" shouts 'Lil as she charges at the yellow slime.

She sure hopes he does, cause she's comin' through! Maybe it's best if he don't though. Her form is ALL OFF.

***

IF Bigby moves, charge at yellow slime. Hit nat 1. Bother.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+9=26 ;
Thursday June 13th, 2019 11:24:09 PM
Caelwyn, sizing up the situation, decides to protect Grindar's flank as he runs to deal with the three oozes and protect the boy. As he runs, he calls to those inside the wagon: "Don't worry, friends, we will help you kill these creatures! But as my companion said, we must all then be ready to move out - something worse than this is coming! Please, trust us if you want to live!" Diplomacy 26

He will, as soon as he is in range and Grindar is not in his way, throw his trident at the blue ooze. But he can't make it into range this round.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=13 ;
Friday June 14th, 2019 12:22:56 AM
Bigby casts guidance on Wolfgang and Wolfgang charges with a bullrush against the kid to knock him back and out of harms way from the ooze. (13). "watch out kid, moving in"

ooc: out of 'Lil's way.

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+4=18 ; d10+1=6 ;
Friday June 14th, 2019 11:12:49 AM
Haemer shoots it with his X bow (attack 18 dmg 6)

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+5=6 ; d20+5=22 ; d20+5=18 ; d4=1 ; d4=1 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ;
Friday June 14th, 2019 12:52:29 PM
There is much muttered conversation from the wagons and the voice of an old woman can be heard clearly. “Stay out of the way, lets hope they are as good of people as the Keepers of the Vale.” The adults in the wagons stay put those that climbed out stay near the wagons while the girl backs up a little bit.

Bigby, thinking of the boy and not his own safety urges Wolfgan on and moving fast they knock the boy back away form the ooze. The boy rolls and looks up wide eyed in terror at the wolf standing over him but with an obvious effort controls his fear and mumbles a quick. “Thanks.”

Close behind BIgby, Lil follows in her own headlong charge. Momentum is on her side as far as force goes but not so much for accuracy as she again strikes nothing but grass and soil.

Grindar attempts to run but it at the end of his endurance so settles for throwing a javelin at the red ooze nearest the boy. The throw is accurate and the javelin makes a nice wet sloorping noise as it connects. As the javelin connects a magic missile, from Sol, also comes flying and strikes the same ooze.

Caelwyn moves to cover Grindar’s flank while he yells to the people in the wagons. A stern voice in the wagon yells “The horses!” and people start to climb out to get them ready.

Haemir advances and fires off a crossbow bolt hitting red as well.

The monks move up with the group but as soon as a call to get the horses ready is made they turn that way to help prepare.

The red ooze moves towards Bigby and the wolf but fails to connect with its acidic slapping body. {Hit: 6} Lil is not so luck and the yellow ooze and the blue ooze, which had moved closer, both managed to land blows. {Hit: 22/18 | Dam: 1/1 + 1/3 Acid}

Behind you there is more of a shape, there should be time to help these people and move forward to some crystals but not a ton more then that.

Red Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -17
Blue Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP:
Yellow Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP:

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 21/21 d20+6=12 ;
Friday June 14th, 2019 5:12:09 PM
Figuring Bigby has the red ooze under control, and Lil has the yellow one, Grindar makes a b-line for the blue one. attempting a two-handed attack. Apparently he is a smidgen tired from all the running and fighting, because his swing goes wild.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=13 ; d3=3 ;
Friday June 14th, 2019 6:02:56 PM
Sol moves forward and casts Ray of Frost on the Ooze he has already struck, but it goes wide, and he lets out some sort of noise, a grunt or scream of frustration.

'Lil - (Carl) - 11/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+1=4 ;
Friday June 14th, 2019 10:24:46 PM
'Lil continues to flail about uselessly.

Hit AC 4

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=16 ; d8+3=5 ;
Friday June 14th, 2019 10:45:08 PM
Caelwyn changes his mind and attacks the blue ooze as well, stabbing with his trident. If they group up, they can kill these more quickly, he reasons...

Attack 16, Damage 5

Xel'Aw (Sub - Rich) d20+1=15 ; d8=8 ;
Sunday June 16th, 2019 12:30:36 PM
Xel'Aw fires his xbow at one of oozes not in combat. (Attack:15) missing.

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=5 ; d20+2=6 ;
Sunday June 16th, 2019 12:36:25 PM
Haemir leaps in with Fand, both of them flanking an ooze and both of them missing

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 11/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=19 ; d6+2=7 ;
Sunday June 16th, 2019 9:36:46 PM
Bigby casts produce flame and figures he will take the aoo since, he's got nothing to fight the ooze with, without hurting himself. And with that, flames as bright as a torch appear in Bigby's open hand and he attacks the ooze with it. (att: 19, dmg: 7). "kid, let me know if another ooze shows up behind us. Keep an eye out for me. It's an important job to keep us both safe. My names Bigby and this is Wolfgang."

ooc: woops can't do both actions. please disregard the attack. It will have to wait.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+5=18 ; d4=2 ; d4=2 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+5=7 ; d4=3 ; d4=3 ;
Monday June 17th, 2019 4:05:41 PM
Grindar swings wild and Sol again fails to connect with a humble cantrip. Not to be outdone [b] Lil too fails to connect with her mighty, if off balance, swing. Joining the fight []b Xel [/b] misses with a bolt from his crossbow while Haemir leps in with Fand and…… misses.

From the wagons and old woman’s voice can be heard “Well… there trying but they are no Keepers of the Vale it would seem. Get the horses hooked up we may need those crossbow again.”

Bigby, thinks strategically and tries to preserve himself by summoning a ball of flame though he does take some damage while doing so. {Hit: 18 | Dam: 2 +2 avid}

The lad, who is certinally not Brom, nods behind Bigby and whispers “Ok. Thank you.” He backs up a step clearly disappointed that he has such a bad showing.

The oozes are all tied up and just attack at the nuisances flailing about near them.

Grindar {Hit: 25 | Dam: 3 + 3 acid}
Lil {Hit: 11}
Bigby {Hit: 7}

Again, the old woman can be heard exhorting her people to work faster.

Red Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -17
Blue Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP:
Yellow Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP:

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 21/21 d20+4=19 ; d20+4=9 ; d8+4=9 ;
Monday June 17th, 2019 5:32:39 PM
Grindar is more then a little miffed that some lady would heckle him and his crew when they are trying to save their lives. In his frustration, he yells back, "Ma'am, I've lost count of how many of these things, we have already dispatched this day, not to mention literally running to your aid, but your right, we aren't the Keepers of the Vale, We're the Keepers of the Plains!!!" Grindar then attempts to take out his frustration on the ooze in front of him.

main hand
Hits AC 19 for 9 damage

off hand
miss

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/21
Monday June 17th, 2019 5:33:54 PM
fixed header

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=18 ; d3=3 ;
Monday June 17th, 2019 6:47:12 PM
Sol looks a little dispossessed as he and his allies make such a poor showing of attacking the oozes, and calls to the others trying to fight them off.

"I promise we are usually better than this!"

And almost as if it was meant to be, he flings another Ray of Frost out, this one connecting (18 to hit, for 3 damage).

'Lil - (Carl) - 11/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+1=9 ;
Monday June 17th, 2019 8:27:09 PM
'Lil's initial reaction is indignation, but when you're right, you're right. 'Lil continues proving the old woman right.

Hit AC 9.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=18 ; d8+3=10 ;
Monday June 17th, 2019 9:01:37 PM
Caelwyn can't quite tell the impact his trident has made on the ooze he just attacked - did his trident do any damage? He decides to ignore the old woman and focuses his effort on impaling the ooze, stabbing it squarely with the prongs of his weapon.

Attack 18, Damage 10

ooc: Did my last attack connect? It was a 16 to hit.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 3/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=6 ; d20+5=12 ;
Monday June 17th, 2019 11:42:23 PM
Bigby attempts to attack with his flame attack but misses twice. he just raises an eyebrow and remarks, "sometimes that's how the dice rolls."

occ: may have misinterpreted the produce flame spell and thought it would cast on both claws.

Xel'Aw (Sub - Rich)
Tuesday June 18th, 2019 7:32:45 AM
Suddenlynfrom amdist the clearing a voice shines out...

''Tis the lesser of the Ooze
We battle here today
Let us not give in to dismay
And push away our blues."

(Inspire Courage +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.)

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20-1=8 ;
Tuesday June 18th, 2019 7:33:45 AM
Haemir brightens up at the words and misses yet again...

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+5=6 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+5=9 ; d4=4 ; d4=4 ;
Tuesday June 18th, 2019 2:38:20 PM
Grindar respionds to the voice of the old woman "Ma'am, I've lost count of how many of these things, we have already dispatched this day, not to mention literally running to your aid, but your right, we aren't the Keepers of the Vale, We're the Keepers of the Plains!!!" before landing a solid blow on the blue ooze. Sol also responds to those dealing with the horse saying that normally they are better then this. His is punctuated by hi ray of frost connecting with one of the ooze.

Cewin was two far away last time but now an land a hard blow on their opponents causing it to pop in a shower of red grass and slime.

Sadly Lil and Haemir fail to connect, as does Bigby despite being encouraged by Xel.

As the first ooze pops the youth pumps his fist in the air. “Get them guys! I believe.” which earns him some rebuke from his sister “Get back here you idiot, your going to get killed!” The boy does not move and is taking his assignment as look out more seriously then he is his sister.

The ooze strike back missing Lil but connecting with Bigby with a solid hit that could have been much worse.

{Hit Lil: 6}
{Hit Bigby: 25 | Crit Confirm: 9 | Dam: 4 + 4 acid}

The old woman peaks around the wagon and smiles one the first ooze dies. She yells back [b] “A free meal to each of you when we find a safe place.

Red Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -17
*DEAD* Blue Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -19 *DEAD*
Yellow Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP:

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20-2=7 ; d20+2=12 ; d20+2=12 ; d20+2=22 ; d20+2=11 ; d4=4 ;
Tuesday June 18th, 2019 2:47:26 PM
Haemir swings and misses, Fand moves 5' and bites and claws (one is a threat but fails to confirm - total 5 dmg with the poem bonus - on the red ooze)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=14 ;
Tuesday June 18th, 2019 2:57:30 PM
Sol perks up at the mention of food.

"A nice meal! Excellent! We shall redouble our efforts!"

But his Ray of Frost goes wide.

"Starting now!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/21 d20+5=13 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+7=27 ; d8+7=15 ;
Tuesday June 18th, 2019 5:01:48 PM
Grindar turns his attention to the yellow ooze, and attempts a full round attack, missing twice, but his frustration lead him to make a heroic two handed attack (used a hero point) this time connecting.with his target.

Hits AC 27 for 15 damage (stupid oozes being immune to crits)

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=12 ; d8+3=8 ;
Tuesday June 18th, 2019 9:36:32 PM
Caelwyn also focuses on the yellow ooze, providing it's still alive. If not, he will turn to the last remaining ooze and take a stab with his trident. Unfortunately, his attack goes wide.

Attack 12, Damage 8

Xel'Aw (Sub Rich) d20+2=19 ; d8=3 ;
Wednesday June 19th, 2019 12:48:39 AM
Xel'Aw continues to assist with his poetry and also fires his xbow (attack:19 for 4 dmg) at the red ooze (or yellow if it's down).

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 3/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=23 ; d6+2=7 ;
Wednesday June 19th, 2019 10:55:33 AM
With flame in hand, Bigby determines to attack the ooze before the ooze gets him. (23, 7 dmg). finally hitting, Bigby feels a sense of pride. Ah now you can kill me you ooze, but just know I don't go out that easily. "Kid you've done a great job, now I need you to go and protecte the girl over there. You can do that for me right?

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d4=3 ;
Wednesday June 19th, 2019 4:02:13 PM
Sol launches another ray of frost, encouraged by the idea of a nice meal, but still misses his target. Caelwyn also misses wit his attack.

Grindar turns his attention to yellow and seems to pull energy from the very idea of being a hero as he strikes the ooze very hard. Xel continues his poetry and buries a bolt into the yellow ooze for good measure.

Haemir misses with his own attack but Fand has no such problems and connects with his own attacks [u] killing [/b] the red ooze. Sadly in the process Fand takes some damage from the creatures acid as he strikes. {Dam Fand: 3}

Seizing the moment Bigby dashes to the final ooze and delivers a the final death blow to save the traveling traders.

With the oozes dead the party has a moment to take a breath. The boy runs to retrieve his sword and stand looking down at the partially digested body the oozes had been consuming. He nods at Bigbys words as his sister comes up beside him and puts and arm around him before speaking. gBlain, you did your best I will miss him too.h she looks up at whoever is closest. gLucus was a guard we brought on since those meteors caused so much problem. Hec he was teaching Blain to fight.h

The horse will still take another moment to get hooked up but the group is working hard to do it quickly. You can see the wagon with the cages and tanks is missing a wheel. A kind of ski has been rigged up so they can still move it. The old woman is fussing with the cart, adjusting the garish sign that says Eels n Eggs as she speaks.

gThank you, sorry for doubting you. Werec well this is the second bit of bad luck recently. Once we get to a place to set up I will make you all my gourmet creations.h

You have a moment to catch your breath before moving on.

XP: 350 each for last two fights + 700xp each for saving traders.

*DEAD* Red Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -17 *DEAD*
*DEAD* Blue Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -19 *DEAD*
*DEAD* Yellow Ooze: AC 16/16/11 HP: -15 *DEAD*

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 3/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday June 19th, 2019 4:42:11 PM
Bigby will cast a mending spell to try to help with the wagon and the wheel. "I'm sorry to hear about Lucas. He must have been a good a good fighter because Blain here is a good young warrior."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29
Wednesday June 19th, 2019 5:42:05 PM
Grindar asks the travelers, "From where do you hail, and what is your destination may I ask? I'm Grindar son of Grindor, and I'm sorry for your losses, but I'm glad we were able to arrive in time to save the majority of you. Maybe we should travel with you for now".

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday June 19th, 2019 6:46:11 PM
Sol nods at Grindar's suggestion.

"Yes, perhaps we could be of service, assuming we have a similar destination.I am Elijah Solomon. Though you can call me Sol..."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday June 19th, 2019 10:07:02 PM
Caelwyn hurries up to the others. "Well met, friends, glad to see that most of you are safe. I am Caelwyn. We are sorry for your loss, but we don't have time to talk - we must move out at once. Something much more dangerous is following us, and we need to get you all out of harm's way."

Xel'Aw (Sub Rich)
Thursday June 20th, 2019 8:31:11 AM
Xel'Aw finishes his poem and breathes a sigh of relief, but his eyes dart to the horizon for any sign of the behemoth ...

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - CMD:14 - Fand: HP:15/18 AC:17/21
Thursday June 20th, 2019 8:34:16 AM
Haemir greets the caravan but also urges them to hurry, helping where he can.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Thursday June 20th, 2019 1:30:44 PM
Bigby contemplates a mending spell but without the wheel, which you left a quarter mile behind, there is little to mend. He addresses the boy. "I'm sorry to hear about Lucas. He must have been a good a good fighter because Blain here is a good young warrior."

Grindar asks the travelers "From where do you hail, and what is your destination may I ask? I'm Grindar son of Grindor, and I'm sorry for your losses, but I'm glad we were able to arrive in time to save the majority of you. Maybe we should travel with you for now"

Sol introduces himself and questions if they have a similar destination. Haemir greets the caravan and urges them to hurry.

Caelwyn also addresses the group "Well met, friends, glad to see that most of you are safe. I am Caelwyn. We are sorry for your loss, but we don't have time to talk - we must move out at once. Something much more dangerous is following us, and we need to get you all out of harm's way."

The old woman finishes strapping down whatever she was strapping down and moves to continue the conversation. She is hunched and wearing what would best be described as a gypsy dress. You would guess she is not prone to a lot of smiling though she is by no means hostile or inhospitable. “Name is Essa but you can call me Auntie, most do.” she has a cane and moves over to get a better look at Grindar. As she moves an older man also climbs out of her wagon and follows behind her. He works his lips while he moves but does not say anything.

“Where are we from? Oh a little here a little there. We travel to sell to sell our wares often stumbling on groups like yourself that need specialized items. We were headed to the Stone Chapel, seems the same direction your going.” the old man rests a hand on her shoulder and mumbles which just draws a shake of the head. As the rest of the group urges speed she nods along and looks at her team dealing with the horses before looking to the children. “Well you two help with the horses now instead of standing there mouths agape. We see you people want to move on and we want to go with ya that’s for sure. Just a moment more I am sure.” She looks to the dead body of the guard and shakes her head before turing around and speaking as she walks. “Ya might want to check him for anything useful”

Before going to help with the horses the boy, Blain, looks at Bigby one more time and smiles. “Umm… what kind of person are you? I have not see……” his sisters yanks him away telling him he is rude.

A search of the guard and do not find much but he does still carry a Masterwork Dagger that may be of use.

BigbyWolf (Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday June 20th, 2019 3:18:26 PM
"Some may be offended by what you ask, but not me. I prefer straight talk. This way you know where the knife is coming from. But anyhow, my names Bigby and I'm a beastfolk born of bloodgrass from animal stock on the Sargrass Plains, so they say. This here is Wolfgang; we are bonded as one. Tell me about yourself and your people Blain."

sub 'Lil 2d6=7 ; 2d6=9 ;
Thursday June 20th, 2019 3:21:54 PM
'Lil casts channel 2 x to heal anyone hurt. (7, 9). "Auntie...what is this Stone Chapel, you are all heading towards?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday June 20th, 2019 5:04:26 PM
Grindar suggests Bigby take the Masterwork Dagger, claiming, {b]"Against theses oozes, using cold steel keeps one from acid burns"[/b]. Grindar asks Auntie if there is anything he can do to help, then walks over to Thich and the monks and asks if they could lead the whole caravan as well as the party safely through some exploding crystals, so that we can set up a trap for our follower.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday June 20th, 2019 5:12:00 PM
Bigby considers Grindars reasoning, "yes, I believe you are right my friend. That's a good idea. I gave my spear to someone back at the camp. Perhaps a dagger is appropriate for the oozes."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday June 20th, 2019 5:57:25 PM
Sol smiles as he comes over to the group, he says nothing, but silently listens, the smile not leaving his face.

Haemir - (Rich) 13/13 HP - AC/T/FF: 17 /13 /14 - CMD:14 - Fand: HP: 18/18 AC:17
Thursday June 20th, 2019 8:51:42 PM
Haemir shuffles along lost in thought

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+3=22 ;
Thursday June 20th, 2019 9:42:03 PM
"Yes, let us prepare to move - we should travel together if possible. I am afraid you may not be safe until we reach our destination."

Caelwyn walks over to Lucas' body. "Do you have room in one of your carts to transport his body? We should not leave it here, unblessed and unburied as food for the beasts and birds. We can bury him as soon as we arrive." Caelwyn easily lifts Lucas' body and deposits it in whatever location is indicated to him.

Strength check - 22

Xel'Aw (Sub Rich)
Friday June 21st, 2019 9:11:07 AM
Xel'Aw helps pack up gear "Perhaps we can do some trading with you later"?

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Friday June 21st, 2019 2:09:40 PM
{ooc: I failed to mention in my last post that there are some images of the wagons and people on the maps link.}

Not offended by the blunt question Bigby responds by explaining what a beastfolk is and introducing Wolfgang. The boy nods smiling. “That’s neat, being bonded with a wolf. I’m glad you knocked me over instead of someone in heavy armor, it barely hurt at all.”

Caelwyn asks if any of the wagons have room for the body. Daphne, the girl in green, says that she has room if they will help load him. Blain even runs and grabs a dirty run to roll him up in before loading the body into the bare wood wagon labeled “Weaving the Wold.”

Grindar suggests that Bigby take the masterwork dagger and save himself some acid burns.

Lil’ heals the party and question what the Stone Chapel. The old man looks as if he might say something but Auntie answers instead. “Its one of the places these monks come from, I assumed you were heading there in the Crystal Mountain. Maybe they call it a Temple rather then a Chapel, I’m not really religious so that stuff jumbles up. Did you just happen to be moving that way not knowing where you were pointing?”

Sol listens smiling while Haemir shuffles along lost in thought.

Grindar asks the monks if they can lead them safely so some crystals that can be used as a trap. The monks are saving their voice and just nod their content as they prepare to move out.

The going is slow with one wagon hobbled but progress is steady. The help of the monks even makes up some for the damaged wheel. After many minutes you reach an area of crystals, two are only twenty feet apart and the monks lead you between them. Time keeps move and just after mid-day you find yourselves moving away from the crystals. The large ooze is just coming into view, so you have time to position yourself and work out your plan.

{ooc: I will create a map to fit your plan.}

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday June 21st, 2019 3:40:12 PM
Barely hurt at all?? Best not to think too much of that, since my approach was not to hurt the boy. Is this what they call pride and humility? eh, no time for any of that. Bigby takes the dagger and puts it in his belt.

sub 'Lil
Friday June 21st, 2019 3:44:25 PM
"Well auntie, to be honest, these monks don't talk much. They say they are taking us to the crystal mountains and we said ok lead the way. They mostly nod and sing. But oh, we do appreciate them singing so we don't go kaboom."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday June 21st, 2019 6:41:14 PM
Sol chuckles at 'Lil's rather... blunt response.

"Yes, I think their singing resonates with the crystals and keeps them stable..."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday June 21st, 2019 11:09:59 PM
"So...it looks like we can't outrun this thing after all, then... Perhaps we should send these good folks a short way ahead, so they are out of danger while we confront this larger menace? We should probably find some crystals to make use of as well..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Saturday June 22nd, 2019 11:48:32 AM
"That's not a bad idea Caelwyn", Grindar agrees, then adds, "And if we position ourselves around 120ft from the exploding crystals, I can hurl the Javelin of Lightning at the thing, hopefully triggering the crystals, and weakening the thing enough so that we can end it, if the Javelin and crystals don't end it already",

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Monday June 24th, 2019 2:29:17 PM
BIgby is surprised about the youth being hurt at all. The simplest guess is he is embarrassed and just looking for silver linings. He, and probably all of you, notice that youth talks… a lot…. Like all the time and not about much.

Lil talks to Auntie about the monks and Sol provides some clarification as to what is said. Caelwyn suggests that they send the caravan a short way ahead, out of danger while they confront the larger menace. Grindar agrees saying the group will should position themselves about 120 feet from the crystals and hurl the javelin.

The word passes to the front of the caravan and what looks to be a dwarf stans on the front of the front, purple wagon, with an eyeglass of some sort. While this happens Auntie replies to Lil’ and Sol.

“Resonance makes sense as much as anything. Its not the tune the keeps them calm for sure, unless the crystaks have some odd tastes in music.” she smiles a gap toothed smile. The old man mumbles something after holding his hand to his ear and she continues. “Wilber, that dwarf up there, says there are more crystals ahead but spaced out. Also some more off to the north and south out of the way.” she waves to the wagons and pushes the old man on “We’ll get going I know there is a hurry to get out of the way.” She looks at Haemir “Young man. Quickly, come with us in the wagons. I see nothing good for you standing here and a new path for you with us.”

Haemir nods, looks at the others with a small smile and sad eyes. “Ok Auntie, I see it in the Woldsblood. I will come in your wagon.”

With that she remounts the wagons and they roll out.

The sargrass plane here looks much like it does in most places except for you can now see the enemy approaching from the rear. Its size is diminished from the last crystal strike which seems to be a good thing. Still it inexorably moves onward.

You have time for some last preparation and positioning but that is all.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 5d6=10 ;
Monday June 24th, 2019 5:32:53 PM
Grindar is sad to see Haemir go but wishes him well in his new adventure, then it's time to get back to work. He draws the Javelin of Lightning, and waits for his friends to get behind him, then as soon as the ooze of unusual size comes into range (120ft) he lets fly. As soon as the Javelin leaves his hand it transforms into a bolt of lightning that streaks straight towards the ooze causing 10 damage. Grindar then readies Cyrchwr Mawr, in his off hand, and a mundane javelin in his main, praying the crystals do more then the lightning bolt seemed to.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday June 24th, 2019 7:04:43 PM
Sol watches Haemir get into the wagon and ride off, a sadness crossing his face, and not just because of the loss of arcane knowledge.

Sol gets behind Grindar and figures now's the time to bring out the big guns, and he casts Mage Armour on Grindar.

"Here you go friend, I am not certain if it will help, but it cannot hurt."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday June 24th, 2019 8:45:06 PM
Caelwyn's concern for Haemir deepens, but he knows he can do nothing for his companion except wish him well. He advances forward and takes up a position behind the rocks to his left, readying his longbow and arrows - he will fire as soon as the ooze comes within range. He watches the javelin arc towards the enormous ooze, praying to Domi it does some serious damage to this thing. As soon as it comes into range, he will also cast detect evil on it just to be sure....

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday June 24th, 2019 9:12:11 PM
Bigby nods to Haemir adieu. "we started this trek together, but will have to meet somewhere down the road again I hope." As for the blob, he shakes his head at the thought that he will have to use this dagger as Grindar wisely suggested. hate not using what the weapons I was given, flicking his claws. Bigby grabs the knife and gets ready for battle.

'Lil - (Carl) - 11/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Tuesday June 25th, 2019 10:24:18 AM
'Lil scratches her head as Haemir takes off. "So, that's that I guess. Guess he really took a shine to that lady."

'nuff'a that, though. There was a giant ooze to deal with. 'Lil places her hand on the tattoo of Domi's symbol on her chest and casts a bless spell on the party.

***

Spells in effect:

Bless - 12 rounds

Edit: Big thanks to Michael for stepping in for me. Things should be back to normal now.

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/11 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 ACTIVE: Inspire Courage
Tuesday June 25th, 2019 11:52:33 AM
Xel'Aw begins the ode.

"Though he is not dying, his leaving makes us less Rich.
Who will help us now, when we're dying in a ditch.
His bird Fand always at his side
Our enemies could never hide.
Haemir was the greatest bloodwitch."

[b]Inspire Courage - From the Paizo Bard page A 1st-level bard can use his performance to inspire courage in his allies (including himself), bolstering them against fear and improving their combat abilities. To be affected, an ally must be able to perceive the bard's performance. An affected ally receives a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. At 5th level, and every six bard levels thereafter, this bonus increases by +1, to a maximum of +4 at 17th level. Inspire courage is a mind-affecting ability. Inspire courage can use audible or visual components. The bard must choose which component to use when starting his performance.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday June 25th, 2019 1:49:45 PM
Bigby bids Haemir will and hopes to meet somewhere down the road before reluctantly taking the knife he was offered. Lil scratches her head as Haemir takes off before casting bless when the party is ready.

Caelwyn’s concern for Haemir deepens but he knows he must except his choice and wish him well. He advances and takes a position behind a rock before readying his longbow and arrows.

Xel begins an ode to inspire he team.

Grindar is sad to see Haemir go but wishes him well. Once the wagons are gone he knows it is time to get back to work. He looks out on the field and notices that near the two very large crystals are smaller ones, thin and tall. The party seems to have found one of the most clear spots to set up. He pulls back his arm and release the javelin which immediately transforms to electricity as it flies.

The javelin strikes the creature true and in swells slightly before going back to normal size. It appeared what every was inside was agitated by the damage. Fortunately a stray bit of energy is grounded into one of the crystals that vibrates wildly before detonating, taking the other crystal with it. Crystal and dust is blown skyward by the detonation that you can feel over one hundred feet away in the ground.

As the dust settles you see the creature struggling to maintain itself before it pops showering the area with its red sickly innards. The creature appears to have been defeated by the explosion of the crystal until you look a moment longer and see that whatever was the heard of the problem is still there. A much smaller cloud of blood red vapor spins in the air as it drifts towards the party.

Dungeoneer DC13 Highlight to display spoiler: { Though a mist you think physical attacks will do some damage. Percision attacks will not. }

Dungeoneer DC18 Highlight to display spoiler: { Fire will do extra damage. }

The mist is sixty feet away form the closest of the party members.

Map Updated

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday June 25th, 2019 1:59:58 PM
Sol, realising Grindar won't actually be helped by Mage Armour speaks up.

"Does anybody want some magical protection?"

If someone answers they do, he will cast Mage Armour on them, if no one does, he will cast it on himself.

'Lil - (Carl) - 11/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+3=7 ;
Tuesday June 25th, 2019 2:10:17 PM
'Lil knocks against her armor. "Only think that spell works when ya ain't already got armor. Thanks, though."

She saunters up to Caelwyn. "So, any idea what that thing is? Not sure Ramona's gonna be too good at poundin' vapor. Ain't gonna stop me from tryin', just being realistic..." She readies her hammer.

Readied attack hits AC 7, which I can't imagine hits.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday June 25th, 2019 3:06:42 PM
"the only red dust that 'Lil had breathed in before. That did not look fun if memory serves."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+4=20 ; d20+4=17 ; d6=3 ;
Tuesday June 25th, 2019 5:20:40 PM
(Knowledge Dungeoneering 20)

"I can't tell you what that thing is, but I'm pretty sure physical attacks will actually work on the thing", Grindar exclaims, "And unless I'm mistaken, the thing is vulnerable to fire".

Grindar will move forward 20ft, which should put him within 60ft of the mist, and then throw his Javelin taking a -2 in his attack due to the distance.

17-2=15 for 3+4=7 damage

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday June 25th, 2019 5:24:36 PM
Sorry, I forgot to add +1 for Xel'Aw's poem, and that my BAB went up for leveling so the total attack hits AC 17 for 8 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=21 ; d8+4=7 ;
Tuesday June 25th, 2019 8:40:16 PM
"Honestly, I'm not entirely sure what that thing is. But with any luck it will still feel this..." He looses his first arrow directly at the approaching creature.

Attack 22 (forgot to add bard song), Damage 7

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/11 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 ACTIVE: Inspire Courage d20+1=8 ;
Wednesday June 26th, 2019 2:02:54 PM
Xel'Aw grabs his xbow and prepares a shot if they get close enough, but seriously, not good in a fight (8 AC?) and continues his rhyming in meter as a free action.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+9=24 ; d4=2 ;
Wednesday June 26th, 2019 3:53:37 PM
Sol offers up magical protection if anyone wants it and casts it on himself if no one speaks up.

Lil wonders out lout what the creature is before preparing to attack with a blow that will surly miss if the ceature get to her.

Xel grabs his crossbow and prepares to shoot but I not that good in a fight as he continues his rhyming in meter.

Bigby mentions some red dust that Lil breathed in some time back.

Grindar lets the group know what the others know what he can think of about the creature. A name pops into his head, but it might just be a description Bloody Mist. Further Grindar moves up and lets a javelin fly connecting with the creature and doing the first damage.

Following Grindar’s lead Caelwyn shoots an arrow into the swirling mist and it appears, again, to do damage.

Perception DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Not all of the damage seemed to get though. }

The creature charges forward quickly its roiling form slams in Grindar dealing damage and possibly weaking thim. {Hit Grindar: 24 Dam: 2 Damage and 1d4 bleed next round + DC16 Fort to prevent 1 Con Damage}

As it strikes Lil completes her swing and once again hits the dirt BUT at least she hits it hard.

{GM Note: Grindar 1d4 bleed next round.}

Bloody Mist: AC 15/15/10 HP: -14

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=16 ; d20+1=18 ; d3=2 ;
Wednesday June 26th, 2019 4:15:45 PM
Sol, having cast Mage Armour on himself casts Ray of Frost on the creature.

"It does not appear completely vulnerable to our attacks! It seems that it is resistant!!"

((Ray of Frost - 18 to hit, 2 damage))

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 24/29 d20+3=12 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=10 ; d8=8 ; d8=4 ;
Wednesday June 26th, 2019 5:24:49 PM
Grindar fails his fort save and feels the ouch, as his overall health drops. He then goes into a full round attack.

Main Hand 10 for 8+4=12 damage
Off Hand 10 for for 4+4=8 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=23 ; d8+3=7 ;
Wednesday June 26th, 2019 8:05:04 PM
Deciding that the time for archery practice is over, Caelwyn immediately moves to flank the thing, attacking with his trident. He charges forward and stabs at it, gritting his teeth. His blow strikes true, stabbing into the creature.

Attack 23, damage 7

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+3=9 ;
Thursday June 27th, 2019 9:59:07 AM
'Lil wonders briefly why she keeps missing all the time as she pounds more dirt.

Hit AC 9

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+9=13 ; d20+7=24 ; d6+2=3 ;
Thursday June 27th, 2019 12:48:13 PM
Bigby puts the dagger away and decides to just charge the windy thing. This could be a bad idea, Wolfgang thought. (6+1 bard, +2 for charge, ooc and still missed 13, Wolfgangs bite: 4+1 bard, +2 charge=24, 3 damage).

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d4=3 ; d20+5=25 ; d4=2 ; d20+5=24 ; d4=3 ;
Thursday June 27th, 2019 2:53:33 PM
Sol ammounces that the weapons do not seem to be having their full effect as he launches off a ray of frost. This attack, the magic attack, does seem to do full damage.

Grindar cannot resist the sapping of the energy by the Bloody Mist and manages to miss both of his attacks. Lil also misses yet again but is making a nice flat spot in the grass and earth.

Caelwyn ditches his bow and moves to flank and attack the Bloody Mist. He feels the flanking may not have helped but still manages to do damage.

Bogby puts the daggers away and charges and misses with the claws but Wolfgang’s bite manages to make it though. {ooc: Ruling on the fly that the con drain only happens when the Mist attacks.}

{Grindar Bleed: 4}

The mist adjusts its position and a whispy voice can be heard speaking. “My creation is gone, tricky flesh and blood, tricky. I will turn you into my next.” Its whispy red form continues to lash at Grindar hoping for more damage. It swings well and some of the smoke makes it into Grindar’s mouth and nose causing extra damage. {Hit: 25 | Crit Confirm: 24 Dam: 2|3} ] DC16 Fort to prevent 1 Con Damage}

{GM Note: Grindar 1d4 bleed next round.}

Bloody Mist: AC 15/15/10 HP: -24

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Thursday June 27th, 2019 3:18:56 PM
"Wha? It's got a voice? Cae, you check this thing for evil yet?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20+2=3 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=19 ; d8=8 ;
Thursday June 27th, 2019 4:59:58 PM
Grindar failed his save a 2nd time, and takes some more con damage,but grits his teeth and attacks again missing the first attack, but connecting with the off hand. "By the way dude, you stink and taste terrible!!"

main hand
11 miss
off hand 19 for 8+5=13 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=18 ; d3=3 ;
Thursday June 27th, 2019 5:47:28 PM
Sol looks worried for Grindar, who seems to be getting more and more injured, and casts Ray of Frost again.

"Grindar! Perhaps cycle back and let someone else take some hits?"

((Ray of Frost - 18 to hit, 3 Damage))

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=16 ; d8+3=8 ;
Thursday June 27th, 2019 7:40:38 PM
"I tried checking it before, but something went wrong..." Caelwyn concentrates, casting DETECT EVIL on the Mist. If it's evil, it will feel his wrath shortly....

He takes another stab at the thing, keeping an eye on how Grindar is doing at the same time. He manages to strike it yet again.

Attack 16, Damage 8

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29
Thursday June 27th, 2019 7:53:28 PM
Hearing the wisdom in Sol’s words, Grindar takes a five foot step back, after his full round attack.

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/11 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 ACTIVE: Inspire Courage d8=1 ;
Friday June 28th, 2019 3:20:44 AM
Xel'Aw will move to behind Grindar and casts Cure Light Wounds healing for (3 points) his bleeding companion. It is interesting how he can continue doing rhymes while casting spells in the same breath, but the courageous inspiration still lingers and another poem is spoken.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+3=21 ; 2d6+4=12 ;
Friday June 28th, 2019 11:18:09 AM
'Lil finally manages to make herself useful!

Hit AC 21 for 12 damage.

On mobile, so short post.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+5=19 ; d4=3 ;
Friday June 28th, 2019 12:49:16 PM
Sol is concerned for Grindar and suggests he cycle back before connecting with another Ray of Frost.

Grindar lets the mist know that he stinks and tastes terrible before connecting with one of two attacks. Still he knows he has been weakened by the creature. Then taking Sols advice he steps back.

Lil is taken aback that the Blood Mist has a voice and and wonders about detecting evil. Even as she asks she swings and this time misses the ground completely and connects with the mist.

Xel moces up and brings some healing energy to bear on Grindar healing him and stopping the next damage from his bleeding. All this and he manages to keep his rhymes fresh.

Caelwyn, now that the Bloody Mist, is clear of its host, can see that it is indeed evil and, as previously mentioned, tastes bad. His stab also connects for further damage.

The voice wheezed again as Grindar moved. “Lightning thrower, no fair moving or maybe you should move further.” Again the Bloody Mist strikes at Grindar. {Hit: 19 | Dam: 3 ] DC16 Fort to prevent 1 Con Damage}

{GM Note: Grindar 1d4 bleed next round.}

Bloody Mist: AC 15/15/10 HP: -60

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=15 ; d20+7=21 ; d2+4=5 ; d2+4=6 ; d20+5=18 ; d6+2=8 ;
Friday June 28th, 2019 1:18:26 PM
Bigby and wolfgang will make a full attack against the wind monster. (claw 1: 15, dmg 5, claw 2: 21, dmg 6, wolfgang: 18, dmg 8). Bigby attempts to get the monsters attention to come at him instead of Grindar. "Hey you ugly bloody wheezy mist, you're going down. Now come at me, if you think you got what it takes."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=8 ;
Friday June 28th, 2019 1:34:33 PM
Sol, continues to focus his efforts on attacking the creature, wishing he had more spells prepared than he has, since he's already out of useful first level spells.

However, his next Ray of Frost goes wide, and he lets out a grunt of frustration.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d8+2=5 ;
Friday June 28th, 2019 8:18:22 PM
'Lil's about to keep pounding this mist, but looks over and sees Grindar bleedin' all over the place. She turns to Caewlyn. "You're ok here by yourself, right? Yea, you're a tough guy. You'll be fine..."

She goes the long way around, ending up next to Grindar. "Dude, you're gettin' blood everywhere. That stuff's supposed to stay inside." She slaps him on the back, exchanging a prot. from evil spell for CLW.

***

Move: Mosey over to Grindar.
Standard: CLW - Heal 5 HP and hopefully stop that bleeding.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 23/29 d20+2=21 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=23 ; d8=4 ; d8=7 ;
Saturday June 29th, 2019 2:18:13 PM
Thanks to both Lil's and Xel'Aw's healing, Grindar is feeling much better, even though his con is still down. However he was able to shake off the con attack. (fort save 21) He then says, "Since you seem to have a love affair with me, let me give you a gift!" He then unleashes another full round attack.

main hand
24 for 8 damage

off hand
23 for 11 damage

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/11 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 ACTIVE: Inspire Courage(4/9) d8+3=9 ;
Monday July 1st, 2019 2:00:49 PM
Xel'Aw gives another heal. I wish I had the ability to do any damage to the bad guys. (9 points healing)

"If you ever find yourself in a tough spot
And all the villians have got you nearly caught
Call on Wolfgang and Bigby
Caelwyn, Lil, Sol, Grindar quickly
You be grateful that by their side you have fought."

Edit: Added Performance Rounds tracking to header

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+9=26 ; d8+5=9 ;
Monday July 1st, 2019 5:55:26 PM
His eyes blazing, Caelwyn whispers under his breath, calling upon the power of Domi to smite this evil thing. With a cry he lunges forward, stabbing the mist to its core. The prongs of the trident seem to glow with a holy light as the paladin makes his attack.

Attack: 26, Damage: 9

ooc: Smite Evil is now in effect

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 23/29 d20+7=13 ; d20+7=23 ; d8=6 ;
Monday July 1st, 2019 6:09:19 PM
Grindar once again goes into full attack mode missing the 1st but connecting on the back swing with his off hand

main hand
13 miss
off hand
23 for 6+4+1=11 damage

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Monday July 1st, 2019 6:40:44 PM
Lil moves to Grindar and heals him up more.

The rest of the team strikes hard and fast and it is impossible to say which strike, causes the mist to swell and fall over you in a bloody red rain as it dies.

There is silence for a moment until you hear a voice from the caravan shout eGood job not Keepers! You saved the day.h it is the boy who was trying to fight earlier.

The sargrass is quiet save the sound of the low chanting of the monks to the sides and back beyond the caravan. The old woman is standing watching you with a satisfied small grin.

What are you doing now?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday July 1st, 2019 6:44:13 PM
"Well... that was rather exciting... where to next?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 23/29
Monday July 1st, 2019 7:41:46 PM
“I suppose we continue heading to Thich’s hometown” Grindar suggests.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday July 1st, 2019 10:17:31 PM
"what was this thing??" Bigby taking a breath. Seems like a long time since they last slept, but who would sleep in this place with these monsters roaming. Bigby nods to Elijah and Grindars suggestion. "When we get to camp, we are doing some hunting."

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d6=1 ; d6=6 ;
Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 10:12:24 AM
'Lil channels energy, healing 6 HP. That should top off Grindar.

"Not Keepers, is that gonna be our name? Not exactly inspiring, is it? Anyway, let's get movin'. Less time spent out in the open the better."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 12:13:45 PM
Caelwyn breathes a sigh of relief as the mist collapses. "Thich, any idea what that thing was? Is it connected to the Woldsblood somehow?"

Caelwyn sees no reason they shouldn't continue toward their original destination, now that the threat has been ended.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 23/29
Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 1:16:18 PM
“As far as names go, my vote would be “The Sargrass Sentinels”, and for the record, there is no way Not Keepers is going to be a thing!”, Grindar says in answer to Lil’s question.

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/11 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 ACTIVE: Inspire Courage(4/9) d20+2=10 ;
Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 2:02:43 PM
Xel'Aw will see if he can figure out anything about the blood cough Grindar got from breathing in the badguy a bit.

"Who are the Keepers?" he asks of the boy.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 2:48:46 PM
Lil channels some healing that tops of the abused Grindar while taking about how Keepers will not be there name. The boy, who has run back to the party, nods. gI know. Thank you lady, er, and your friends.h

Healed Grindar is still not his normal robust self. {ooc: Steal deal with the Con damage.}

Bigby wonders out loud what that thing was while agreeing with Sol, Grindar and Lil that continuing on would be in order.

Caelwyn questions Thich as to what the creature was and gets a shake of the head as he answers. gNot in my song, corruption from before I would guess.h

Grundar makes it clear that Not Keepers will not be catching on as a name while Xel asks the boy who the Keepers are. He answers with a smile. gThey saved us when the crystals fell and mutated so much of the Wold. It was very dangerous and they stepped in just like you did today. I mean no offense, theyc. Wellc. They left an impression on me is all. Some were so smart and some so powerful, you are like them I thinkc. Special maybe?h

As you all make your way though the grass back to the wagon train you can see that they are hitched up and ready to go. Auntie asks a few questions about the thing you battled in its final form and nods. The old man leans in close and mumbles before poking at the red stuff covering the party members that were close when it died. He rube it between his fingers and mumbles something understandable to Auntie before she speaks. gMight have been a Vampiric Mist that got contaminated when all the crystals feel from the sky. He said the feel is right though red is odd, not sure about the ooze. Maybe they got caught by a crystal togetherc.. silly magic fiddle faddle I would say.h

The boy stays close, he give Grindar a bit of a side eye seeing that he looks less hale and hearty then before. gYou want to ride in a wagon? You look tired.h

In the wagon or not you move on the monks spread out and keep up the singing as you pass several pieces of crystal. Closer still the details of the glorious mountain come into view. The mountain is a thing of beauty and majestic and only those with the smallest of hearts and imagination would not be moved. Still you can see it has badly damaged, a large porting sheared off and blown far and wide looks like an beautiful open soar on its majesty.

The sun reflects off the beautiful damaged mountain reflecting a rainbow of colors over the sargrass for a long way out. As you move the colored lights play over armor, skin and painted wagon adding a degree of festivity by their very nature. Thich is singing in earnest now and you can hear his songs picked up by the monks that are moving towards the party to investigate. The sound travels and is louder to the east where you see hundreds of monks singing in the distance around what looks like a newly forming crystal mountain. Are theyc yes, it appears they are growing a new mountain.

Monks, many many monks, can be seen in the distance coming from the area of the new mountain towards a huge temple made of great stone blocks. Where the blocks come from you are not sure as the area does not contain much rock.

A monk is approaching from the temple, which is still hundreds of yards away, flanked by two other monks on each side. All are singing as they move towards you.

Also the melee folks are covered in red mist, now dry.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 6:04:34 PM
Grindar gladly excepts the ride saying,"I appreciate it, that battle took a lot out of me"

Upon arrival, Grindar is awed by the majestic beauty of the mountain, and even more impressed when he discovers that the monks are in fact creating a new mountain. He gets out of the wagon when he sees the monks approaching from the temple, and stands with his comrades, wishing he would have had a chance to wash the red mist off his body. He decides to hold off saying anything, and allow his more charismatic friends to make the introductions.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday July 2nd, 2019 11:26:41 PM
"I like these monks. They raise mountains out of nothing. So how do we sign up to do that?" Bigby looks at Wolfgang covered in red mist and laughs. Wolfgang looks back as if to say, you too buddy. Right Bigby realizes he's covered in red mist too and just shrugs, "can't beat em, join em, am I right Wolfgang."

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 11:41:42 AM
'Lil tries to wipe all the red junk off'er as they walk. Probably not enough water in this grass desert for a good bath.

She leads the way to go meet them two monks. Not polite to make'em come all the way to her. She waits for them a couple'a moments when she closes the distance, to see if they're gonna say, or sing, something.

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 (4/9)
Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 4:42:14 PM
Xel'Aw tries humming a few bars along with the monks, but it doesn't go well. What kind of bard can't sing?!

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 6:47:46 PM
Sol just looks in awe at them raising the mountain, he doesn't speak, just stares at it, completely awestruck.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 9:57:43 PM
When Xel starts to try and join in the monks give every bit of encouragement they can. They repeat the same thing over and over trying to get everyone to join. Those that don't they move closer to and smile, gesturing to give it a try.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday July 3rd, 2019 10:21:43 PM
Caelwyn, like his companions, feels a sense of awe at the majesty of the mountain. He is impressed by the monks, and curious to learn more about what they are doing. He will accompany 'Lil forward to meet those that are approaching them, waiting, as she does, to see if they speak first.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20=15 ;
Thursday July 4th, 2019 9:05:08 AM
Grindar tries to join in the singing and though his performance isn't a masterpiece, his deep baritone voice sounds rather pleasant (Perform check 15),

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20=19 ;
Thursday July 4th, 2019 10:04:02 AM
(19) Bigby attempts to sing along. This is perhaps the one time in his life where his singing sounds on cue and not "pitchy." Bigby considers whether he should start a new career, but realizes quickly that "every dog has his day," moment has just happened and he will sadly not be having a career as a singer or as a singing monk.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Thursday July 4th, 2019 5:15:44 PM
Caewyn feels a sense of awe at the majesty of the mountain. He is impressed by the monks and curious to learn more about what they are doing.

Grindar and Bigby Join in the sinning and seem to do an ok job of it. Grindar’s[ /]b deep baritone rumbles nicely while [b] Bigby does ok despite knowing he will not have a career as a musician.

The monks stop a bit away and wait for you. Seeing that no one has been out of toon the monks wave you forward, encouraging the rest to sing.

{ooc: Give me a roll with a skill that you think might work or let me know you are not singing.}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday July 4th, 2019 5:18:34 PM
Sol shakes his head.

"I am afraid I do not have a particularly good singing voice... I fear I would simply turn the music into a cacophony..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20=17 ;
Thursday July 4th, 2019 7:25:02 PM
Grindar continues singing, and to his surprise his performance actually improved a bit. (Performance 17) As the monks beckon the party forward, he walks towards the monks.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Thursday July 4th, 2019 11:23:49 PM
'Lil waves her hand in front of the monks' faces. Were they ignoring her?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20=3 ;
Friday July 5th, 2019 12:58:02 AM
Bigby continues his singing performance and croaks out a frog. Even wolfgang raises an eyebrow lifted to the performance.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+4=5 ;
Friday July 5th, 2019 8:39:35 AM
Caelwyn decides to give the song a try, but the resulting tune is far from pleasant. (Perform Nat 1)

He follows the monks with the rest of his companions, content to see where they will lead them.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Friday July 5th, 2019 3:58:38 PM
Sol shames his head and lets them know that his singing would not help anything. Grindar continues singing and keeps doing well.

Caelwyn attempts to sing but the sounds is…… very bad. The closest crystal gives a shudder as one of the monks, a rotund dark skinned human rushes to him and slaps a hand over his mouth and whispers. “Not you, you can do other things I am sure. “

Lil coses the distance on the monks and waits to see what they say or sing. After a moment she waves her hand in frustration that the monk have not stopped what they were doing to address the woman who rushed to them and ignored their suggestion that she sing with them.

The monk in the lead gives a small sigh, looking at the impatient Lil and speaks quietly. “Come. See where we live.” While you walk the monks keep a close eye on Caelwyn so see that he does not sing again, clearly his voice upset them. He looks to Auntie and says that the caravan should follow and can set up near town.

The lights still refract from the decimated crystal mountain and further away from the new mountain that is being built. As you move with the monks they lead you though the grass to what looks like a small town or encampment excepting that everything is constructed from grass that has been woven together. Most is of normal Sargrass but the most important buildings are steelgrass structures. As you enter what is clear the encampment the monks stop singing or at least rotate so only one is singing quietly at a time, it is hard to tell exactly.

The caravan is given a place to set up and the party is told that someone will be with them soon. They should look around. You get the idea that this is a functional town and things such as taverns and inn’s are present as well as shops. What you will not find is blacksmiths or any craftsmen working with things other then the grasses.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday July 5th, 2019 6:23:10 PM
Sol begins to get quite excited by the prospect of a town.

"We should definitely take a look around and see if they have anything we may need for the next leg of the journey."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Saturday July 6th, 2019 9:49:59 AM
Grindar is excited to see what kind of homes the monks dwell in. He is fascinated by the grass weaving, and wonders if Rattledam will look like this someday.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Saturday July 6th, 2019 8:59:48 PM
"we're gonna need some grass weavers for back home I suppose."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=20 ;
Sunday July 7th, 2019 7:55:42 AM
Caelwyn promises not to sing any more, and walks in silence, taking in the sights and sounds of the town. What kind of people live here, mostly? What do people do for work? (Perception 20)

He wonders if paying the local taverns a visit at some point may not be a bad idea, to try to gather news or meet others who may be able to help them. After speaking to the monks, of course.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Sunday July 7th, 2019 11:53:59 AM
'Lil blushes, embarrassed that she wasn't paying attention. She looks for a place to get a drink...

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10 d20=3 ;
Monday July 8th, 2019 3:50:00 PM
Xel'Aw looks around at some stores, wondering if any connect to the catacombs. Wait, what do I know of catacombs?

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Monday July 8th, 2019 4:16:56 PM
Sol begins to get excited at the prospect of a town. “We should definitely take a look around and see if they have anything we may need for the next leg of the journey.”

Grindar is excited to see what kind of homes the monks dwell in. Is this a look a the future of Rattledam? Bigby points out that they are going to need some grass weavers. Lil is looking for a drink. Xel looks for stores wonder about the selection of merchandise.

Caelwyn promises not to sing any more and walks in silence. Like the others he wonders about the encampment and looks about to see what he can work out.

Caelwyn doe not see a lot of sings on buildings as you might see in a more permanent settlement but there are enough indicators that he can work things out. The encampment is not big but you can make you at least wo taverns and also a couple of mess halls. Vendors are about selling various day to day wears along with some basic weapons. One enterprising vendor has even started fashioning stilts to sell to help protect the legs of those who move in the grass. The one thing that is very clear is that any conversations that are taking place are being done somewhat quietly. This is probably a habit of the residents more then anything else.

It appears you have a moment to yourself. The monks had promised you would be collected shortly, which is pretty imprecise of a time.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday July 8th, 2019 5:19:59 PM
Hey Sol" Grindar asks, in a hushed tone, You wouldn't happen to have that spell prestidigitation prepared? If you do, would you mind using it to clean this red mist scum off of those of use who got coated in the stuff? It would be nice to be a little more presentable, if possible, when we talk to our hosts."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+11=17 ; d20+11=30 ; d20+11=27 ;
Monday July 8th, 2019 6:47:01 PM
Sol smiles at Grindar, and casts Prestidigitaiton on him, and anyone else who asks him to do so.

"I always have it prepared I find it an incredibly useful spell to have."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday July 8th, 2019 9:28:30 PM
Caelwyn echoes Grindar's request, and thanks Sol for his help. "Perhaps we should look to sell weapons or equipment we no longer need, or purchase additional supplies? Or shall we wait and take care of this after we speak with our hosts?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday July 8th, 2019 9:45:59 PM
"Perhaps some shopping then." Bigby asks Tich, "Will we be bringing back and grass weavers to help us rebuild?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Tuesday July 9th, 2019 11:38:32 AM
'Lil looks down at the red dust as Sol prestidigitizes it off. "Hey guys, you don't think we brought a plague to this town with this dust, do ya? I already screwed up the meetin', and that wouldn't help endear me none. No sir..."

To be safe, 'Lil tries to scootch everyone outside the town borders before cleaning the stuff off. Preferably down wind from the place.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday July 9th, 2019 2:10:23 PM
Grindar, now among people again, realizes that a coating of fine red powder, or dried mist, might not make the best impression.

Lil wonders if the substance that had coated them could have brought a plague or some such into town. {DC12 Heal or DC15 Know Nature} Highlight to display spoiler: { A larger quantity of this substance inhaled or consumed could cause problems. In the current form it is probably just gross and did not make the community want to embrace you immedicably.}} [/i] She scooches the party a bit away from the encampment for cleaning.

A bit away from the general population and over the next minute or so Sol uses the ultimate utility magic, prestidigitation, to clean and spiff up the party.

Moving back towards the encampment you can see a little interest has developed by those in the town. One man is walking towards you wearing a not completely clean apron and a woman is jogging up about ten yards behind him. The man gets to you first and speaks in a low but conversational voice.

“New here it seems, good good. I have not problem with the outsiders, being one myself you see. If you need a drink or a meal the Crystal Tavern is just over here.”

As he speaks the woman has closed and steps in front of him as he finishes. She has long red hair pulled back and her brown eyes have wrinkles around them from too much time in the sun. “Ignore him and his “crystal’ slop hole. Culliver’s is the place for a drink and a meal, I am sure you have the silver for it.”

The man starts to speak again but looks closer at Lil’s very large weapon and decides he best not run his mouth too much.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+8=26 ;
Tuesday July 9th, 2019 2:26:36 PM
Heal: 26

'Lil figures there's not enough dust to hurt nobody, but they probably shouldn't dump their dirt in the middle of town anyway, ya know? She still shoos everyone to the outskirts at least.

She smiles at the two. "Well, lucky for the both'a you that I like to eat more than once a day. Been livin' off trail food for a few days now. Probably gonna start with the place that didn't call their competition a 'slop hole', though. That ain't neighborly..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday July 9th, 2019 5:16:22 PM
"You guys go ahead, I'll just head back to where our hosts left us, and wait" Grindar offers, "My coin purse is a bit on the empty side at the moment".

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday July 9th, 2019 6:19:24 PM
Sol looks in his own coin purse.

"Err... yes... I seem also to be a little light on funds at the moment... I have only 8 silver pieces to my name..."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday July 9th, 2019 8:17:47 PM
"I don't need much myself...but a meal and a drink might be nice. Anyone else? If we can chose between our fine options." Caelwyn inclines his head to both the tavern-keepers.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday July 9th, 2019 11:30:19 PM
Any members from WLA here? Bigby asks, hoping to find one to complete his training and pay his dues.

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10
Wednesday July 10th, 2019 11:43:42 AM
"Interestingly enough, I still have a lot of coin left. I guess those halflings didn't care about money and never took mine, and we haven't had use of it for the last few... months? here in the wilds."

Xel'Aw takes out his coin purse and distributes 10 gold coins each to Lil, Bigby, Caelwyn, Sol, and Grindar. "That should cover food and lodging for awhile until we can split up sell and split our loot."

Xel'Aw looks to join up with Lil at the Crystal Tavern.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday July 10th, 2019 3:03:04 PM
Lil is confident that the dust will not cause further problems but still better to put it out of town.

Grindar decides to wait where the host left them as his coin purse is a little light. Sol is also light on funds having only eight silver.

Xel quietly slips some coins to each of the team that need and will take them.

Lil is happy to eat, twice if needed, and heads to the Crystal Tavern. Caelwyn is interested in food and drink as well. Bigby asks about WLA members so he can complete his training.

Hearing that they group is light on funds both of the innkeepers deflate a little bit. Seeing some of the group head towards his place makes the man smile. He speaks directly to Lil as she moves. “Don’t worry about what the red headed devil woman says about the Crystal Tavern. Were a good place and I can make a good deal for those with little coin. You look like you….” he is cut off by the red hair woman.

“Red headed devil woman!!!! Devil woman.” she pushes him aside as she takes a beep breath “I did not introduce myself. I’m Edith Culliver and I have the pride to put my name on the door.” the man starts to speak again but Editg steps in front of him again “Don’t mind Archie, he was here first and is good for the laborers. You have the look of being on a quest, I will give you a good deal on anything but meat. I went on a quest once, even have some of the most basic magics still myself.”

Archie just shakes his head as she speaks but keeps quiet.

Neither seems to know much about the WLA.

{ooc: Ignore this part if you took Xel’s coin} Grindar and Sol head back to where they were initially left but find little there beyond the traveling caravan that they rescued. They are busy setting up but nod and smile in your direction.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Wednesday July 10th, 2019 4:01:58 PM
This is gettin' old. She figures these two are either gonna come to blows or start makin' out. She really didn't wanna be part of either.

"Well, this is all totally professional, but we're gonna keep looking around this place. I'm sure you'll both see us later..." Unless her friends are eager to keep chatting with the two restaurateurs, she's eager to get away from'em.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday July 10th, 2019 4:04:14 PM
"well no WLa, so let's keep looking around."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday July 10th, 2019 4:37:48 PM
Grindar thanks Xel'Aw for the coin, however, he is of the same mind ass Lil and says, "I'm sure both of you have fine establishments, but with attitudes like yours, you are in danger of chasing away your customers!" He then joins his friends and walks away checking out the rest of the encampment.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday July 10th, 2019 6:42:02 PM
Caelwyn walks with 'Lil, unconcerned about this local feud. "Thank you both, I'm sure, as my companion says, we will see you at some point soon. Domi bless you."

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Thursday July 11th, 2019 10:44:57 AM
Lil has had enough “"Well, this is all totally professional, but we're gonna keep looking around this place. I'm sure you'll both see us later..."”

Bigby continues to look around as the two tavern owners don’t know anything about WLA.

Grindar is as frustrated as Lil "I'm sure both of you have fine establishments, but with attitudes like yours, you are in danger of chasing away your customers!"

Caelwyn is equally frustrated and chastising for the business owners "Thank you both, I'm sure, as my companion says, we will see you at some point soon. Domi bless you.”

So the heroes turn away from the two tavern owners and if anyone has sharp ears they can hear the final bits of conversation offered by Archie. Perception DC10 Highlight to display spoiler: { “Why we are still married, if only in name, is beyond me. One of the few women at the camp and you do this.” }

Heading back to where you were initially left the caravan is pretty close to being set up for business. The boy, Blain, has clearly done his part and is practicing with his wooden sword until he catches site of you all. He runs up speaking quickly. “Auntie says, and we all agree, that we owe you. We have food and wares, Anutie says a meal is on the house at the very least.”

As he is speaking a young monk strides up to the group. His eyes briefly catch on Daphne, Blains sister, and he slows before realizing what he is doing and forcing his eyes away. He approaches “Brother Flitch and Brother Attius are at the new mountain but will come back to speak with you at some point I think. I’m to tell you there is a place to stay. The third building on the left it has a sign on it ‘Important Outsiders’ there should be room to sleep.” his eyes dart to Lil several times as he speaks and the last bit is said just to her “Some of us, me, will be available to help you if you need. What brings you all the way here?”

Sense Motive DC13 Highlight to display spoiler: { There are clearly very few women around and it is distracting him. }

If asked about a WLA presence he shakes his head and tells you that word came that someone was coming but they are not here yet.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+6=10 ; d20+8=9 ;
Thursday July 11th, 2019 11:32:44 AM
Perception: 10

'Lil catches the parting jab from Archie. She elbows Grindar in the side as she walks. "Called it," she says without further explanation.

She smiles wide at the prospect of a free meal, especially after those two were so eager for their coin. "Real food? Yes, sir! We'll be back hungry 'round supper time."

Surprisingly, she remains oblivious to the young monk's predicament. "An old dude with too much money asked us to come help establish a foothold. That's the official story. I just wanted to get out of Hook City and go adventurin'. Turns out adventuring hurts, but it beats sittin' around cleaning up ma's messes. I'm gonna go check out our new digs. What's your name, anyway?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=5 ; d20=1 ;
Thursday July 11th, 2019 3:14:10 PM
Caelwyn doesn't hear any further conversation, he is focused on ignoring those two. He also doesn't pick up on anything amiss with the monk or his comments.

He echoes Lil's enthusiasm for a free meal, and thanks Blain - "You are all very kind, and we would gladly accept a meal! I would be curious to see what you are selling also.

He also has some questions for the monk - "What can you tell us about this place, and how it came to be? I am eager to learn more about this land and its...eccentricities."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=14 ; d20+2=4 ;
Thursday July 11th, 2019 5:04:43 PM
perception 14--
"How did you know Lil" Grindar asks, "I would have never guessed that they were married!

Grindar is thankful for the free meal from Auntie, and asks Blain to make sure to relay their gratitude.

He doesn't notice anything out of the ordinary from the monk, and joins Lil in checking out the living quarters.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=3 ; d20+1=7 ;
Thursday July 11th, 2019 5:36:18 PM
Sol thanks Xel'aw for the coin.

"I appreciate it friend."

When there is the possibility of a free meal, he smiles widely, and his ears perk up.

"I am sure we would all be happy to have a nice home-cooked meal rather than the trail rations we have been eating."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=24 ; d20+2=10 ;
Thursday July 11th, 2019 7:25:28 PM
Bigby picks up that the two were married, and muses about why some marry. Bigby joins the group for free food. Emphasis on free.

Xel'Aw (Grant) 11/15 HP - AC/T/FF: 12 /10 /12 - CMD 10
Friday July 12th, 2019 1:27:31 AM
Xel'Aw is also grateful for the food, but will wander to see if he can't find a caldron or something. He wants to try some tricks he saw Haemir perform before he left.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Friday July 12th, 2019 1:28:18 PM
Lil picks up a bit of ending conversation and elbows Grindar saying she called it. Grindar wonders how she knew saying he would never have guessed the tavern owners were married. Bigby picks up that they were married and muses about why some marry.

To a person the team is grateful for a meal. Blain is clearly thrilled and runs off to get things set. As further commotion begins and some tables are pulled out in the caravan the monk shifts uncomfortably as the team peppers him with stories and questions. He blinks a few times and only gets his name, Brother Gustus, before Lil and Grindar head to check the living quarters they were given.

He talks to the rest of this group that did not run off.

“An old guy sent you here? A foothold? I…. well… I don’t think I can help with that.” Brother Gustus shakes his head a bit but is brought back on track with Caelwyn’s question “You don’t know about the Sargrass Plains or do you mean this encampment. The Sargrass just came back to this plane after ‘The Long Wait’ and there are not many monks left. I, well, I think they killed themselves. Umm well I am pretty new, that’s why I was sent here for you. Um….” he looks around and speaks even quitter “I’m new but there is not a lot of trust for outsiders like yourselves. You may have to earn some trust.. meet people maybe help. I don’t know really. I am sure the leaders will get to you but it might take a while unless people know you a bit.”

Eventually, as it is getting darker out, you see that the cravan is really up and running. Auntie has been working in her ‘Egg’s and Eel’ cart getting a feast ready. When called over you see several platters of foot, some bread and vegetables but the main course is clearly platters of marinated and grilled eel’s stuffed with an egg, cheese and vegie mixture.

During conversation Xel learns from the half orc Emrys that he has a cauldron that he would let him use since he was part of the rescue and all.

The caravan members thank you greatly and say they are happy to trade. {ooc: Connection to the Catacombs is here as well as mundane items} There are five vendors present; Wilburs Wonderous Wonderments, Eggs n Eeels, Dilana’s Shalls and Hexes, Emrys’s Ointments and Salves and, finally, Weavin The Wold.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Friday July 12th, 2019 6:46:28 PM
I googled eggs and eels and found zero mention of eels filled with scrambled eggs. Did that pop out of your head?

***

Eggs and eels? That was way too off the wall to not be delicious. 'Lil digs in, hopefully finding it worth eating.

"You know this is the first real food I've eaten in weeks? It's been all trail rations and ship food since I left Hook City. I'm lookin' forward to eating well for the next few days."

Odd that there's so much shopping to do in this frontier town. 'Lil briefly considers just telling their patron to come and take over the place to get out of her geas, but that wouldn't be nice at all. She chastises herself for the thought and asks for seconds.

Regarding shopping, she ain't got much what needs buying, but she'll keep the dudes company while they shop. It's weird how much attention she's getting around here. She wonders why that is...

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday July 12th, 2019 6:56:28 PM
Sol looks over the wares browsing all of the different vendors to see if there are any spell scrolls or spell books, he pays particular attention to Wilburs Wonderous Wonderments and Dilana's Shalls and Hexes.

"Is there anything in particular anyone is looking for?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday July 12th, 2019 8:10:35 PM
Caelwyn is on the lookout for any sort of literature or material in the town pertaining to Domi - he is curious to learn about where the people in the Sargrass put their faith. He is not entirely sure about Emrys, as a half-orc, but is curious to see what he has for sale.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Saturday July 13th, 2019 12:22:18 PM
Grindar is excited to try the eggs and eels, as they remind him of home, and he wonders how Auntie's compare to his mom's. As he takes the first bite he savors the flavors for a moment, then he proclaims, "These are as good as mom's. Thanks Auntie!". As he has no money at the time, he doesn't bother looking into the shops at the moment.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Saturday July 13th, 2019 2:15:19 PM
"eggs and eels? Why not...when with humans...do as the humans do."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Saturday July 13th, 2019 6:46:10 PM
“I wouldn’t necessarily call eggs and eels a common human dish”, Grindar corrects his Beastfolk friend, “Mom’s a half-orc, like me, so is Father for that matter, and this is the first time I’ve seen a human prepare it”.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday July 15th, 2019 12:26:18 PM
Bigby listens to Grindar and nods his head to his wisdom on eels and eggs. All the while eating eels and eggs. He thinks to self, not bad.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Monday July 15th, 2019 2:52:25 PM
The young monk makes a quick exit when he sees the main course. Despite being in a remote location were eggs and meet are scares the combination is too much for him. As he leaves he tells you gI will make sure you place is ready and round up the others who will be available for you.

Any who eat the unusual taste combination are surprised by how well it works together. The outside of the eel has been crisped just enough that it gives a nice crunch and the eggs are spiced well and just the perfect texture.

[b] Lil [/]b is thankful for the respite from trail rations and wonders at the amount of shopping available out here in the middle of nowhere. The caravan being there to trade was certainly fortunate as with out it there would be little.

[b] Grindar is impressed by the food telling Auntie that it is as good as his mom use to make. Bigby is a bit confused by the combination but gives it a try and, like the others, finds it delightful. While they eat Grindar lets Bigby know that Eggs and Eels would not be considered a staple of the human world though he thinks it is more a half-orc/orc thing.

Caelwyn and Sol are not as interested in the culinary hospitality of the caravan but focus on the more mercantile aspects. They find many mundane items as well as a handy way to get more magicial items that may be available. {ooc: Head to the catacombs}

While you eat Auntie smiles at the groups and asks, to the all of you in general, so what is next?

Blain, the boy, sits close to Grindar and asks what the most dangerous thing you have faced is.

Daphne, Blains sister, seems to be fascinated by Bigby and his mount. She sits close asking about how he was brought up, what his family is like, how did he get a wolf and finally does he have a girlfriend because she has a friend.

Towards the meal end of the meal the mumbling man pokes Blain how runs off to retrieve a small baked corn cake with honey for each of the party members.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Monday July 15th, 2019 3:01:10 PM
'Lil eats ravenously. She paces herself, being sure not to deny anyone enough to eat, but she also makes sure there are no leftovers.

"We're supposed to be finding druid wood. We got a whole city to rebuild a few days from..."

'Lil's voice drifts off as she realizes they still have to walk back. Getting here was a real pain, and they'll probably have to do it all over again. She regains her composure after a moment.

"...here. Few days from here. Gotta find some druid trees, plus anything else we can figure out to help grow Rattledam. Like, opening trade with this place.

"Say, I bet you could help with that. Unless you've had enough with caravaning through the Sargrass."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday July 15th, 2019 5:14:52 PM
Grindar gives Lil a run for her money on the food consumption, and like her, he makes sure no one is left wanting. When Blain sits down and asks him about the most difficult thing he has faced, Grindar thinks for a moment, and then whispers in his ear, "Probably Lil!" He then breaks out laughing and says, "No, no no really, I would have to say it was that mist thing we fought last. You saw me after the battle, it sucked the life from me, though I'm starting to feel a bit better, and should be fine in a day or two".

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday July 15th, 2019 6:38:27 PM
Sol looks over the wares in the shop, but doesn't purchase anything, lamenting his lack of funds.

Sol enjoys the honeyed cake particularly, a big smile on his face.

"Just like the cooks used to make."

He lets Lil talk about their plans, and doesn't interrupt.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday July 15th, 2019 7:15:09 PM
"Daphne, would you like to pet Wolfgang? He will not bite you and is quite friendly...try rubbing him behind his ear...he likes that. Well, don't know any other family other than Wolfgang. I guess we are famlily. I suppose you can say I'm a mutation, but I prefer beastfolk. I'm also somewhat of a druid which is why Wolfgang and I have a bond." Bigby smiles at that. "Ahem as to girlfriend..." Bigby blushes and looks nervous. "Maybe we should talk about something else. You mentioned Tishe' Do you know that I've twice met her? Long story, but I met her in this crazy bar called...ah...the giggling ghost."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday July 15th, 2019 8:52:25 PM
Caelwyn enjoys the meal immensely, but pays close attention to 'Lil's conversation with Auntie. He fears that they have lost focus a bit with all their adventures, and need to stay true to the job they were hired to do.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday July 16th, 2019 2:06:34 PM
Grindar and Lil show their appreciation for the food but competing to see who can eat the most. When Aunti sees them eating so well she smiles and even cackles a bit at their appetites, clearly it does her heart good to see this going on.

Grindar tells Blain that the toughest battle was the mist they fought at the end which gets a big smile from the youth. gThat looked bad, you guys are very brave, it is good we ran into you. I am going to keep working with my sword, be a warrior myself you will see.h

Sol eats his fill as well and listens to Lil. Caelwyn also enjoys his meal immensely but poays close attention to what Lil is saying to Auntie.

Xel quietly picks at the food.

Lil tells the caravan and the young monk as he circles back a little of what they are doing. "We're supposed to be finding druid wood. We got a whole city to rebuild a few days from here. Gotta find some druid trees, plus anything else we can figure out to help grow Rattledam. Like, opening trade with this place. Say, I bet you could help with that. Unless you've had enough with caravaning through the Sargrass."

Auntie smiles at Lil and thinks. gIt is the destiny of Aunties Traveling Road Show to bring trade to new places. Travel here is hard but it is what we have to do. By boat, by land and more then once by air we have to go and trade and sell. My husband was an adventurer as was I long ago, now this is our fate. If you are building a place for the civilized peoples we will come.h at the talk of the druid tree Mumbles perks up and makes some noises at his wife. As he is doing this you notice that his lips seem to be mostly fused together and thus the odd speech. After a moment Aunti talks again. gNot many druids and trees left I think. The monks might know, Mumbles says he knows of some far far away, he thinks that was in this world at least.h

Bigby answers questions from Daphne and invites her to pet his wolf, he quickly turns the conversation away from the idea of a girlfriend to his meetin Tishef which really gets Daphnefs interest. gIsnft she the best and coolest!!!!! You know she and her friends also saved us but the spells she threw around were so impressive! She must be the greatest wizard there is the way she helped fight those diseased creatures. I want to study magic and be like her so if you find anything that could help let me know.h she glances at Sol gYoufre a good wizard too you know.h

The monks have drifted back and reiterate that they are charged with making sure you are being taken care of to some degree. Sense Motive DC12 Highlight to display spoiler: { They might also be there to make sure you donft cause any problems. Makes sense when well armed people show up. } They think some of the leaders of the monks may know about druid trees but they have not returned form the new mountain yet. It is not uncommon for them to be there more than a day.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+8=12 ;
Tuesday July 16th, 2019 2:39:37 PM
'Lil's ears perk up when she hears Mumbles may know something. Far, Far away sounds like more than a day trip, though. She wonders if the Sargrass stays whole enough to map it out, even after the Southern Continent rearranges it.

"If he don't mind, I'd love to know where he thinks those trees might be. We could file it away under 'stuff to do when we're bored.'"

She leans over to Grindar when the monks leave from their checkup. "I think they're worried about us causin' trouble. They must be on to you, dude." She sits back up, pointing two fingers at her eyes, then at Grindar in the universal sign of "I'm watching you."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+2=4 ;
Tuesday July 16th, 2019 5:13:51 PM
Grindar doesn't catch the motives of the monks so he looks at Lil when she points at him, and Playfully puts his hands in the air saying, "What did I do? He also listens in when Mumbles shares his knowledge, and then says, "Too bad we can't just buy a druid wood boat!"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+2=7 ;
Tuesday July 16th, 2019 5:47:34 PM
Sol smiles at Daphne's kind words.

"Thanks to you... I appreciate it, though I have not made a terribly good showing of myself today... though if you would like to learn something, perhaps I could teach you some of the basics, especially if you come to Rattledam. If you do not, I fear I would not have enough time to teach you anything of value."

He smiles warmly, fond memories clearly flowing through him.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20=2 ;
Tuesday July 16th, 2019 9:07:27 PM
Caelwyn thinks about this. "It does not seem worth it to set out on a long journey when the returning monks may have what we need...anything else we can do while we wait to establish good relations with the people of this place?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday July 17th, 2019 12:09:53 PM
Bigby responds to Daphne, "I will definitely let you know." He looks over to Sol and nods, "He is most definitely a great wizard!"

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday July 17th, 2019 1:37:42 PM
Xel continues to eat quietly and as the conversations start he seems to stare off lost in his own thoughts.

Grindar does not catch that they worry the monks a little bit until it is pointed out by Lil.

Lil is curious about the mention of druid trees by mumbles, well by Aunti since she had no idea what Mubles said. The thought that he might know where to find it perks her interest but Caelwyn feels differently. He points out that the mentioned wood sounds far off and the monks may have what is needed.

Bigby agrees that Sol is a great wizard though he is a little more self effacing. Claiming that he has not made a good showing today. When offered some minor teaching Daphne beams. gIf you couldc I mean I donft want to get you in trouble with other wizards or anything. Tishef could do this neat trick that could clean things or flavorc she said it was one of the easiest. I donft want to put you out though.h

Mumbles shrugs at the discussion with Lil and Caelywn before mumbling briefly which Auntie translates. gHe say he doesnft think you can get there form here. Worlds combine at times in his mind at this point. Frankly he has always been more then a little out there, its why I love him.h

As the meal wraps up Aunti pulls out one final gift for the group. It is a small chest with a few gems in it. gA meal is no payment for saving our lives. Please take this. We have and can always make more it seems.h {ooc: Value TBD – Is the player wealth up to date on the Party Funds sheet?

Night is coming and the monks are happy to head you back to your lodgings or to a tavern if you wish. Also, you can sit and chat if you want.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Wednesday July 17th, 2019 2:44:19 PM
'Lil whistles low at the gems. "I dunno, Auntie. That was a pretty great meal. I sure do appreciate this, though. We all do. Adventuring gets expensive, ya know?" She says her goodbyes and heads out.

"Tavern!" calls 'Lil before anyone else gets a chance. "Gotta meet the locals, right? We ain't gonna do that turning early." She could use a drink, really...

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday July 17th, 2019 4:54:33 PM
Bigby looks to get a drink of meed if they got it. "What a long, strange trip it has been," he says out loud.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday July 17th, 2019 5:17:48 PM
"Thanks Auntie! this is most generous!" Grindar says when she opens the chest. When Lil heads to the tavern, he follows asking, "So which one do we want to try out?"

OOc.. Grindar's wealth is accurate as of right now.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday July 17th, 2019 5:45:56 PM
((OoC: I'm not sure... I don't seem to have access to the Party funds sheet, I must have missed the link))

Sol smiles.

"I will do my best to teach you for as long as we have. As I said, I cannot promise much if we have very little time..."

He seems a little exasperated at the idea of going out drinking, but does so all the same.

"Perhaps we could find a quiet corner to sit in?"

CDM Jerry [OOC post]
Wednesday July 17th, 2019 10:45:26 PM
OOC ADM Michael is arranging for a sub for Xel'Aw. Grant when you surface for air, shoot me an email and let me know you are ok sir.

DMs when appropriate, you may delete this post.

Sorry for the interruption.

Xel sub
Wednesday July 17th, 2019 11:17:33 PM
Xel eats his eels and eggs and muses do eels produce eggs? And to that end he says”which came first the Eel or the eggs? Did I say that out loud again?” He continues on and observes others interacting with auntie and the kids. Perhaps there is a story here for him to remember for another day to inspire the party. Mhm. “Yummy eel and eggs don’t you think?”

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday July 17th, 2019 11:41:07 PM
"Thank you, friends, this is most generous!" Caelwyn appreciates the offer from the caravan, accepting it only based on the necessity he sees for their quest.

"Perhaps we should try both taverns, one and then the other? The drinks and the news will be different in each, I am sure."

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Thursday July 18th, 2019 11:25:01 AM
Xel sits quietly eating his eggs and eelfs. He questions which came firs the eels or the eggs before pondering if there is a story here for another day.

Lil whistles at the gems saying the meal was pretty great but she appreciates the gems. She along with Bigby, and Grindar are happy to head to a tavern for some drinks.

Sol smiles saying he will do his best to teach her if there is any time. He is a little exasperated by the idea of going out drinking and hopes for a quiet corner.

Caelwyn accepts the gift from the caravan seeing it as necessity for their quest. He suggests trying both taverns as the news and drinks may be different in each. This suggestion probably makes Solfs day.

Now at dusk you find the encampementfs natural quiet even more unusual. Normally the proximity of people to each can be heard at night but it is quitter here then most any place else with a concentration of people. The night is dark and lights are muted and where it lights grass walls it takes on the color of the grass used. Some monks are seen moving about, form the looks of it ending or beginning their assigned duties.

Finding the small grass built taverns is easy enough there is slightly more light and slightly more noise. From one you hear the sound of music and singing faintly, this is the Crystal Palace run by Archie. The second tavern, Culliverfs, is quitter but you here the occasional burst of laughter from the group. A closer examination form the outside shows that they are constructed of multiple woven sheets of grass, clearly to baffle any sound of merriment that is made. Neither is over large, probably thirty foot square each and peeking in you see the bulk of the furnishings are also woven, like rattan furniture.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday July 18th, 2019 3:40:27 PM
Sol looks over both of them, then indicates the Crystal Palace.

"Perhaps we can start there?"

He smiles brightly.

"We can find a quiet area and relax a little?"

Xel sub
Thursday July 18th, 2019 4:04:11 PM
Perhaps I can go and learn of more stories as well. "no more eggs and eels thank you. So good." He puts the empty bowl aside and joins the group.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday July 18th, 2019 4:05:44 PM
Bigby listens to to Sol about the Crystal Palace and nods in agreement. "Relax, and meed. Let's do it."

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Thursday July 18th, 2019 4:19:07 PM
"Sounds good, boys." She places her arms around the two closest dudes and starts marching in. She orders herself a beer and sees if she knows any of the songs they're singing.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday July 18th, 2019 5:11:43 PM
Grindar walks into the Crystal Palace with LIl's arm around him. as she orders a beer, he does likewise, and asks if they serve Flaming Green Gnomishes.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=22 ;
Thursday July 18th, 2019 9:01:23 PM
Caelwyn smiles as 'Lil and the others march into the tavern. He remains at the back of the group, keeping his hood over his face and his cloak wrapped around him; his eyes are on the lookout for any kind of trouble, but also for helpful individuals to talk to. He orders a beer and sits, humming quietly to himself along with the others as he watches.

Perception: Natural 20

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Friday July 19th, 2019 2:46:35 PM
Xel puts the empty bowl aside and joins the group. Sol indicated the crysal palace as a place to start and maybe relax. The rest of the group agrees with this idea and so the Tale of the Crystal Palace beginsc.. just kidding its only a tavern.

As you make your way in you see a bar with a wooden top but fronted by woven grass in one of the far corners. Opposite that you see a small stage with what looks to be one of the monks singing a haunting two of lost love. You only arrive in time for the very last verse.

gIf I could start again
A million miles away
I would keep myself
I would find a wayh

The tables are low so you reach down from a chair or about normal height on a mat. There are a few chairs and many matts to sit on. Beeres are ordered and Grindar find that there are not specialty drinks. A beer imported to the air is a full silver piece but a local brew, using some variation on Sargrass, is available for only 2cp. There is also a variety of wines available.

Archie beams when you come in and quickly moves shaking each of your hands. He offers the first round, of the local brew, on the house.

Caelwyn scans the area and sees the most of the people are fully interested in the singing that is going on as they drink. No one other then Archie has paid much attention to the group, clearly no one is suspicious of you in this tavern.

As the young monk exits the stage to some applause a halfling beside the stage calls out.

gVery good very good lad! From the sound of it you are winning the night, again, next up we have Lucindia.h

A fair skinned elf with dyed green hair takes the stage and speaks before singing. She carries a small ukulele which she strums softly.
gA new song tonight, for someone special.h

Her voice is soft with a slight nasel twang as she begins.

gIn a vine-covered shack in the mountains
Bravely fighting the battle of Time
There's a dear one who's weathered life's sorrow
It's that silver haired Daddy of mineh

Overall the mode is content it does appear there is a real competition going on among the various singers.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday July 19th, 2019 4:07:50 PM
Grindar takes the news about no specialty drinks in stride, and thanks Archie for the free beer. He takes a swig, and ponders the flavors. "Interesting", he thinks, "Not to hoppy, and yet not to malty either, a decent beer buy any measure". He then asks Archie, "How do you pull it off, I would have never guessed this was made from grasses of the plains, it tastes like good old barley and hops".

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday July 19th, 2019 6:30:15 PM
Sol gets a glass of wine, and sits listening to the musicians play, looking thoughtful and somewhat distracted.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday July 19th, 2019 6:56:33 PM
"Leave the bottle please. We've had a long week." Bigby drinks and takes it all in.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday July 19th, 2019 8:33:15 PM
Caelwyn accepts the drink, thanking Archie as he does so. As he listens to the music and looks around the room, he is noting what races he sees here. Humans, haflings, elves...does he see any half-elves such as himself?

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Saturday July 20th, 2019 10:25:23 AM
'Lil's heard something about grass glass...or glass grass, or something like that. Supposed to be a Sargrass specialty. "Is that what we're drinking? That fancy Sargrass wine?"

Interlude at the Crystal Palace -- DM Steve
Monday July 22nd, 2019 10:35:00 PM
The group is sitting at a tavern called the Crystal Palace, watching a singing contest and enjoying the local refreshments.

Grindar, finds the local beer interesting. "How do you pull it off, I would have never guessed this was made from grasses of the plains, it tastes like good old barley and hops."

Sol gets a glass of wine, and sits listening to the musicians play, looking thoughtful and somewhat distracted.

Bigby Bigby drinks mightily, and takes it all in.

Caelwyn accepts the drink. As he listens to the music, he looks around the room observing the other patrons. He sees no other half-elves.

'Lil asks, "Is that what we're drinking? That fancy Sargrass wine?"

At the next table, three men are talking to each other softly as they watch the contest. If you want to eavesdrop, DC15 percetion is required:Highlight to display spoiler: {"Heard it's not the usual prize tonight." "So? Then what's the prize tonight?" "Trex says it's a token of luck, whatever that's supposed to mean." "Think I'd rather have the beer." "Trex, you say? The priest? What's he got to do with it?"}

Archie thanks you for complimenting the beer. "It's taken me a while to work out the right combination. I'm glad it passes muster with folks who've just arrived."

Singers come and go. One of the men at the next table gets your attention. "Hey, who do you favor -- Connor or Chel?" You've seen several singers.

The halfling by the stage asks if anyone else wants to try. If not, the judges are ready for the second round.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+6=22 ;
Tuesday July 23rd, 2019 10:47:27 AM
"I dunno dude, we got here late. I like whoever went second, though. That first song sounded a little painful. I'm 'Lil, by the way."

'Lil can't carry a tune. She nudges Caelwyn. "Go on, pretty boy. Supposed to be a nice prize tonight."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+9=20 ;
Tuesday July 23rd, 2019 12:09:15 PM
"we don't do singing." Bigby points towards himself and Wolfgang. "we do howling."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday July 23rd, 2019 5:47:10 PM
"To be honest friend, I was so caught in up my analysis of the local brew, that I haven't really been paying attention to the music", Grindar answers, than when the last call for stage time is offered, he stands up and asks if he could give it a whirl.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=13 ;
Tuesday July 23rd, 2019 5:51:03 PM
Sol shakes himself out of his thoughtfulness.

"There is music? I had not noticed..."

He smiles.

"I have no idea who I favour, point them out to me during this next round."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+1=3 ; d20+1=5 ;
Tuesday July 23rd, 2019 5:53:18 PM
Grindar doesn't catch the conversation. (OOC... please ignore the second roll, bumped the mouse botton twice by accident.)

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday July 23rd, 2019 9:05:41 PM
Caelwyn smiles at Lil's suggestion. "Did you hear my attempt earlier today? The monks actually asked me to stop singing, lest I shatter every crystal around us. But perhaps I should give it another try..."

Caelwyn is willing to give it a shot, if it's possible.

Interlude at the Crystal Palace -- DM Steve d20+6=9 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+9=10 ;
Tuesday July 23rd, 2019 10:50:12 PM
'Lil can't carry a tune. She nudges Caelwyn. "Go on, pretty boy. Supposed to be a nice prize tonight."

"We don't do singing." Bigby points towards himself and Wolfgang. "we do howling."

"To be honest friend, I was so caught in up my analysis of the local brew, that I haven't really been paying attention to the music", Grindar answers, than when the last call for stage time is offered, he stands up and asks if he could give it a whirl.

Sol shakes himself out of his thoughtfulness. "There is music? I had not noticed..."

Caelwyn smiles at Lil's suggestion. "Did you hear my attempt earlier today? The monks actually asked me to stop singing, lest I shatter every crystal around us. But perhaps I should give it another try..."

Grindar and Caelwyn approach the halfing, ready to join in the contest. "They any good?" Archie asks the rest of you as they go.

The halfing is happy to introduce both new contestants, making a big show of it. "All the way from Hook City, we have Grindar and Caelwyn! Give us your best, boys! Gentlemen, first I give you the world's only singing orc." After Grindar performs, the halfing introduces Caelwyn. From the back of the audience comes a muted response, "Hey, you don't want him singing!" followed by scattered laughter.

Grindar and Caelwyn: Each of you make a perform check -- if you get at least a 15, make another check for the next round of the competition.

In the second round you are facing Smith, Deke, Connor, and Chel -- including a couple of tough to match performances among them. It'll take a natural 20 in the second round to stay in the contest.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday July 24th, 2019 2:16:13 PM
Bigby turns and gives a look back of dissaproval to the hecklers in the back. "Quiet down back there and drink up. Give them a chance."

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Wednesday July 24th, 2019 2:27:58 PM
"Beats me," answers 'Lil. "I mean those monks did ask Caelwyn to stop singing a few hours ago, so..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+1=7 ;
Wednesday July 24th, 2019 5:17:34 PM
Grindar steps up on stage, and immediately gets stage fright, causing him to totally forget the words to the song he was planning on singing. after standing there looking like an idiot for a moment or two, he makes a hasty exit stage left, and heads back to his friends, and another pint, grumbling under his breath the whole time, "You'll face a whole horde of monsters, but you get frightened getting on stage, what the heck!" He does his best to ignore any hecklers, choosing instead to focus on his beer.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday July 24th, 2019 5:21:03 PM
Sol chuckles.

"This will be interesting."

He sits and sips his beer, watching the performances with renewed interest.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+4=8 ;
Wednesday July 24th, 2019 9:28:05 PM
Caelwyn, most unfortunately, doesn't perform much better than Grindar - the tune he attempts is mediocre, at best, and the paladin knows it. After a brief attempt to remedy the situation, he gives up the stage before anyone can start throwing things.

He goes and sits next to Grindar. "I suppose we are cut out for things besides singing" he comments wryly, smiling as he also returns to his drink.

Interlude at the Crystal Palace -- DM Steve
Wednesday July 24th, 2019 10:40:18 PM
Bigby gives a look back of disapproval to the hecklers. "Quiet down back there and drink up. Give them a chance."

'Lil observes, "I mean those monks did ask Caelwyn to stop singing a few hours ago, so..."

Grindar steps up on stage, and immediately gets stage fright, causing him to totally forget the words to the song he was planning on singing. after standing there looking like an idiot for a moment or two, he makes a hasty exit stage left, and heads back to his friends, and another pint.

Sol sits and sips his beer, watching the performances with renewed interest.

Caelwyn, most unfortunately, doesn't perform much better than Grindar - the tune he attempts is mediocre, at best, and the paladin knows it. After a brief attempt to remedy the situation, he gives up the stage before anyone can start throwing things.

There are numerous catcalls after Grindar's and Caelwyn's performances, which the two performers do their best to ignore. After they are done, the four finalists perform, with surprisingly mixed results. Chel, favored to win, pulls a mediocre performance as well. The halfing announces Deke as the winner of the prize, which was donated for this evening by the priest Trex. Several of the performers continue with the show after the contest is over, singing for the fun of it. If they didn't already know, Grindar and Caelwyn realize they were competing with people who sing for a living.

Archie brings another round of drinks for everyone, followed by a young monk who plops down beside you. You realize he is one of the singers. "Hi. I'm Chel. Just wanted to congratulate you on getting up there," he says to Grindar, grinning. "You'll be known around here as the singing orc for a while. Anyway, didn't want you to feel discouraged, and Archie already owes me more beer than I can use." Chel sticks around for a while, making easy conversation, before he excuses himself.

Sense motive DC 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {Chel is a little distracted by 'Lil.}
Sense motive DC 12: Highlight to display spoiler: {Half the room is a little distracted by 'Lil.}
Sense motive DC 16: Highlight to display spoiler: {Chel is not here to impress 'Lil, he is genuinely trying to make sure Grindar is not discouraged.}

The evening's entertainment is winding down, and the patrons have been leaving along and along. Your group is not the last here, but the place has thinned out.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+1=8 ; d20+8=9 ;
Thursday July 25th, 2019 10:36:01 AM
'Lil remains, very surprisingly, completely oblivious to the attention. She's just glad she found such a friendly town out here in the sticks.

OOC: Seriously, sense motive is like the only decently high skill 'Lil has. :D

"Holy cow. Grindar, can we start calling you that too?" She lowers her voice as much as she's able. "I am Grindar, Son of Grindor. I come wielding the mighty Cyrchwr Mawr to siiiiiiiiiiiiing!" She chuckles at her own joke.

"Hey Chel, I'm 'Lil. Good job up there tonight. You come around here often?"

She cranes her neck a bit, trying to see what that prize was. Just curious, is all...

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+2=13 ;
Thursday July 25th, 2019 3:28:30 PM
Bigby leans over to 'Lil and whispers, "seems like half the crowd here is somehow distracted by you. Not sure why though." Bigby smiles at Chel, "hello." because that's what humans do, right?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=10 ;
Thursday July 25th, 2019 5:07:40 PM
Sol, mostly oblivious does manage to pick up on some of the more obvious hints.

"It was a fine showing you made my friends... though this is coming from someone who knows little to nothing about music..."

He frowns self deprecatingly.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+2=18 ;
Thursday July 25th, 2019 5:16:06 PM
Sense motive 18

"I think Bigby's right Lil" Grindar agrees then chuckles and adds, "And I'm pretty sure I know why too!". When Chel mentions the singing Orc, and Lil adds her jibe, his face turns red and he says, "But I'm only half orc". He then breaks into laughter, and adds, "I probably deserve it though after my poor showing, by the way the names Grindar, son of Grindor, well meet!"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20=3 ;
Thursday July 25th, 2019 9:39:46 PM
Caelwyn completely fails to pick up on anything unusual either. He is content to sit quietly, drink his beer, and observe the comings and goings of the remaining patrons.

Interlude at the Crystal Palace -- DM Steve
Thursday July 25th, 2019 11:39:07 PM
'Lil builds on Chel's joke. "I am Grindar, Son of Grindor. I come wielding the mighty Cyrchwr Mawr to siiiiiiiiiiiiing!" She chuckles at her own joke. "Hey Chel, I'm 'Lil. Good job up there tonight. You come around here often?"

'Lil cranes her neck a bit, trying to see what that prize was. Chel catches on, and explains, "I'm here most every night. Normally we compete for drinks. Tonight, a local priest offered a potion he made as a prize. It was described to us as being lucky. I just hope Deke doesn't waste it to win the contest again. There's more to do with luck than win a few beers."[/b]

Bigby leans over to 'Lil and whispers, "seems like half the crowd here is somehow distracted by you. Not sure why though." He then greets Chel.

Sol complements the singers at the table for their performances.

Grindar agrees with Bigby's assessment, but also realizes why Chel joined them. When Chel mentions the singing Orc, and Lil adds her jibe, his face turns red and he says, "But I'm only half orc". He then breaks into laughter, and adds, "I probably deserve it though after my poor showing, by the way the names Grindar, son of Grindor, well meet!"

Caelwyn completely fails to pick up on anything unusual. He sits quietly, drinks his beer, and observes the remaining patrons.

You realize the evening is almost gone, and you never got to Culliver's. Before he leaves, Chel asks whether you think you'll be here again tomorrow.

If you answer that you will come again the next day: Highlight to display spoiler: {Chel gives Archie a "thumbs up."}

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+8=17 ;
Friday July 26th, 2019 10:29:44 AM
"Huh?" answers 'Lil when Bigby whispers in her ear.

She looks around the room, catching eyes look away when she looks towards them. "Ah man, I don't need this." She looks back at Chel. Was he asking because she brought people into Archie's place?

Sense motive: 17

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday July 26th, 2019 2:21:18 PM
"why are they looking at you? I don't get it." Bigby tries to think about how this would work for wolves. "are you in heat???"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday July 26th, 2019 4:13:15 PM
Sol smiles.

"I think we may find our way back here, though perhaps we will be in Culliver's as we may wish to try that place before we must leave again..."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday July 26th, 2019 9:25:34 PM
Caelwyn nearly spits out his beer at Bigby's remark, but manages to restrain himself - he doesn't want to hurt the poor guy's feelings, since he is clearly doing his best to understand the situation. "I pity the man who might try anything with you, 'Lil...Ramona might have a few choice words for him."

Caelwyn gives a vague reply about returning next night. "I am tempted to try the other tavern as well, just to see what it is like...what do the rest of you think?

Interlude at the Crystal Palace -- DM Steve
Friday July 26th, 2019 11:25:23 PM
'Lil looks around the room, catching eyes look away when she looks towards them. She looks back at Chel. Was he asking because she brought people into Archie's place? But as best 'Lil can tell, Chel is an honest and open young man of seventeen or eighteen. However, he was not circumspect when he asked his question -- it was heard by the neighboring tables.

Bigby tries to think about how this would work for wolves. "are you in heat???" Caelwyn nearly spits out his beer at Bigby's remark.

Sol smiles. "I think we may find our way back here, though perhaps we will be in Culliver's as we may wish to try that place before we must leave again..." Caelwyn also gives a vague reply about returning next night. "I am tempted to try the other tavern as well, just to see what it is like...what do the rest of you think?" Chel seems to take this as a "no" to his question.

As the evening winds down, you find less entertainment at the Crystal Palace and eventually make your way back to the temporary living quarters Brothers Flitch and Attius had showed earlier. Wandering through town, you encounter several sentries on patrol. More than you would have expected for the size of the community, although perhaps not so many when you think about the infrastructure to be rebuilt. Even the ‘Important Outsiders' building lacks furnishings, although there was room for the party.

As you go, Grindar has no trouble seeing, but the rest of you have only the sparse light from torches here and there around the encampment.

As you approach your quarters -- Perception vs DC:15 (Grindar at +2, humans at -2, Bigby no adjustment) Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice a single, small figure moving by your doorway, which is currently still about 50' - 60' from the party.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=28 ;
Saturday July 27th, 2019 12:35:02 PM
Perception 28

As Grindar and his friends head to their sleeping quarter, he easily spots the "intruder". He draws Cyrchwr Mawr, and says, "We have company!"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=20 ; d20+9=13 ;
Saturday July 27th, 2019 9:17:39 PM
"Aye, there is someone by our door...just a single person, it appears." Caelwyn isn't particularly intimidated by their appearance, so he makes no threatening moves with his trident...yet. When the figure notices them, he will initiate dialogue: "Hello there...anything we can do for you? We are lodging here tonight."

Perception: 20

Diplomacy: 13

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+4=17 ;
Monday July 29th, 2019 1:07:32 PM
"Always," is 'Lil's only reply to Bigby's question, then she downs the rest of her drink, hiding her smile behind the glass.

She stands and stretches, "anyway, time to go to bed..." As they walk home, she picks up on the small figure. She pulls Ramona from her back. She holds it forward, business end outwards, and adds, "we ain't slept outside a camp in a long time, dude. I'm lookin' forward to it, so think real hard about whether you want trouble or not."

She elbows Caelwyn. "Whats your evil sense sayin', dude," she whispers.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+9=23 ;
Monday July 29th, 2019 1:17:55 PM
"always," Bigby whispers outloud. I've got more to learn about these humans. perception 23. Bigby and Wolfgang watch and get ready for any action. Bigby nods to Grindar, letting him know he sees it too, and waits as Caelwyn asks the sneaky guy a question.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Monday July 29th, 2019 2:43:48 PM
Lil responds to Bigbys earlier question with a simple gAlways.h {ooc: Earing a chuckle from the GM} She stands, stretches and declares it time to go to bed. Thes response lets Bigby clearly know that he has more to learn about humans.

Grindar easily spots the figure and lets the others know that they have company as he grabs a weapon. Lil asks Caelwyn what his danger sense is saying when they see the figure. Caelwyn also notices and lets the others know it is just a single person before calling out. "Hello there...anything we can do for you? We are lodging here tonight."

Bigby, as with the others, notices the figure but it is his companion wolf who reacts first clearly know what is going on it lets out a small yip or recognition at the shadow. This yep causes a blond youth with a wooden sward to step out of the shadow.

gAhhh you all caught me. I was to leave a note saying breakfast would be ready for you in the morning. Eggs and bread I think. Auntie is worried about running low on supplies out here. Come by in the morning before you start your day.h He looks to the group clearly hopeful that you will come so he can spend more time with the heroes.

The accommodating that have been provided are sparse with little to no actual wood involved in the construction. Framing is made of tightly woven grasses, as strong or stronger then wood, covered with woven grass tapestries. Inside are several sleeping mats, really more like large bags of softer grass that you can lay on.

The night passes without incident and if you set watches you quickly find that the young monks are rotating duty outside your lodgings. Any one you see looks board and if asked simply says that they monks look out for newcomers when they first arrive before asking if you need anything.

You awake rested and not in any danger for a change.

What do you do now?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday July 29th, 2019 3:05:50 PM
Sol looks to the group, his silver hair messy and tangled as he awakens.

"Seems like we had a good night's rest! What should we do first? Explore town more, or continue on our journey? After breakfast, of course..."

He begins running his hands through his hair to get out the worst of the tangles, before he puts it in the usual half up half down style he has.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday July 29th, 2019 5:05:52 PM
Grindar awakes feeling refreshed and well rested. He also feels more vigorous as the con damage, from the last fight, begins to heal. He looks at his friends and says, "I could get used to not being awakened in the middle of the night by something out to kill us". He then runs his fingers through his hair to make himself look more respectable, steps outside to talk to the monk on guard duty, and asks, "Where should we go for breakfast?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday July 29th, 2019 7:00:13 PM
"Perhaps some more eggs and eels then. Or wherever. not used to not hunting for food, but it all tastes fine." Bigby goes out as is.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday July 30th, 2019 3:44:14 PM
Grindar wakes well rested and refreshed. After opining on how he could get use to sleeping without threats he wonders about starting the day. Sol also wonders what they should do with the fresh new morning but Bigby seems to have a planc food.

Heading to the caravan, on the outskirts of the encampment, you find that people are up and attempt. There are a fair number of actual customers and form the conversation you get the idea that things like eggs and meat are in short supply. Clearly this little caravan will make decent money while here. Those eating are a mix bag; a few young monks, a few craftsmen and even what looks to be a dwarf in a slightly bloody apron. The one thing that is clear is that there are no women among those eating.

You sit and are given a fairly healthy portion of eggs and you see the lad, Blain, as well as his sister heading your way where a few of the customers give a start and look to the taller grass near the caravan. Something is moving towards the encampment. None of the telltale signs of humans and their ilk approaching are heard.

What are you doing now?

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=29 ;
Tuesday July 30th, 2019 5:28:08 PM
Grindar eats his eggs with delight, then thanks Auntie for yet another fine meal. when he hears the other customers give a start, he grabs Cyrchwr Mawr and races towards the moving grasses, situating himself between whatever is approaching, and any civilians, all the while, trying to get a fix on what may be approaching. (perception 29) He yells to his friends, "It looks like it's time for us to play hero again!"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday July 30th, 2019 5:33:55 PM
Sol, is eating his breakfast quietly, and reading his spell book, as if preparing for the day, however upon noticing the movement in the grasses, he picks up his staff and stands ready, grabbing one last mouthful of food before adopting a neutral, but prepared stance.

"Should we not wait to see what it is first?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=12 ; d20+9=19 ;
Tuesday July 30th, 2019 9:01:19 PM
Caelwyn likewise stands from his breakfast, picking up his trident and shield and moving to place himself between the caravan and the moving grass. "Let's see what we are dealing with here..."

He calls out: "Pray declare yourself, friend or foe! We will welcome you if you come in friendship, but reveal yourself first and declare your purpose."

Perception: 12

Diplomacy: 19

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday July 30th, 2019 11:55:37 PM
Bigby waits and sees what Caelwyn and Grindar will do and what trouble awaits them. "no rest for the wicked my friends."

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Wednesday July 31st, 2019 12:03:45 PM
"I mean, last time this happened it was just the kid inviting us to breakfast. Maybe someone else wants to serve us lunch?"

Still, 'Lil gets up and readies Ramona.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday July 31st, 2019 2:55:05 PM
Map up.

At hearing the commotion Grindar immediately assumes it is time for a fight again though Sol wonders if they might want to see what it is. Bigby waits to see what happens while Lil points out that the last time this happened it was a kid inviting them to breakfast.

Caelwyn calls out "Pray declare yourself, friend or foe! We will welcome you if you come in friendship, but reveal yourself first and declare your purpose."

There is a beat and then a pig come darting out of the grasses. The pig is a little bloody from the grass and whatever else it had run into. The pig sees the tables and people and veers to the south clearly looking to go around. As the eyes of the party follow the pig there is a father rustling and two small lizard-like creature burst out upon two muscular legs, a mane of spikes running down its scaly back. The creatures claws have a bit of red blood on them but around their mouths and in their eyes is a different more sickly red.

Know Arcana DC13 Highlight to display spoiler: { These small beasts are Chupacabra. These notorious predators have an undeniable thirst for blood. Chupacabras prefer to prey upon the weak and slow, often watching potential prey from hiding for long periods before attacking. }

Know Arcana DC18 Highlight to display spoiler: { They will try and grab when they bite. High reflex save. The red around the eyes and mouth indicate some sort of sickness from contaminated sargrass. }

One of the creatures breaks off towards the pig and the other, probably slower to react, keeps coming towards the party.

Needless to say Caelwys attempts at diplomacy are ignored.

Red Creature: AC:?
Blue Creature: AC:?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+8=20 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+6=8 ;
Wednesday July 31st, 2019 4:19:24 PM
"ARH-WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO," howls Bigby as he charges the one in red. Claw attack from Bigby (att: 20, dmg: 5), and bite from Wolfgang (att: 8).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+11=14 ;
Wednesday July 31st, 2019 4:31:24 PM
Sol, tries to figure out what they are.

"They are chupacabra! They have a thirst for blood! They usually try to pick off the slow and the weak... perhaps we could scare them off?"

He casts Mage Armour on himself all the same, just in case it turns into a fight.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+5=8 ; d6=4 ;
Wednesday July 31st, 2019 5:29:28 PM
Gindar moves ahead 20ft, while drawing a javelin, holding his ax in his off hand. he hurls the javelin at the blue creature. hitting AC 8 for 8 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=6 ; d8+3=9 ;
Thursday August 1st, 2019 8:10:11 AM
Caelwyn joins in the attack on the red creature, but the little thing is quite agile, and manages to dodge his attack. His trident stabs to the left of its body.

Attack: 6
Dmage: 9

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14
Thursday August 1st, 2019 10:53:37 AM
'Lil can't make any of those knowledge checks.

She briefly looks at the pig. Why was it here? Could chupawhatits turn into pigs? So many questions.

No matter. She advances, pulling Ramona from her back as she moves. "Domi, watch over us as we deal with more stuff out here that wants to eat us." She slams Ramona's shaft into the ground, sending happy thoughts outwards.

***

Move: Move and draw Ramona
Standard: Bless on party - 2 minutes

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+6=15 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=14 ; d4+1=2 ; d3+1=4 ; d3+1=4 ; d20+4=10 ;
Thursday August 1st, 2019 7:57:23 PM
Sol quickly calls out that the creatures are chupacabara before casting mage armor on himself.

Bigby gives a howl as he charges in striking the red chupacabra.

Grindar moves ahead while he draws ax and javelin. The javelin flies but misses its target by quite a bit.

Caelwyn also charges the red creature but misses his attack. {ooc: There was a table between you and the target, I gave you the charge but please check the map.}

Lil briefly checks the pig wondering why it is here but it is a question for later. She draws her weapon and casts bless on the party.

The red chupacabara is not happy to have been struck by the wolfman on a wolf and lashes out with bite and claws. All of its attacks land thanks to Bigby’s defenses being lowered from the charge. Fortunatly its attempt to grab fails. [i] {Hit: 15/16/14 | Dam: 2/4/4 | Grapple: 10}

The blue chupacabara is focused on the running pig and loops around to the south, ignoring the heroes and giving chase to the pig.

The pig starts to loop up back towards the caravan in an attempt to get away from its pursuer. Blain yells for the pig and moves towards it in an attempt to help it. At least he has his wooden sword.

Red Creature: AC: 16/14/13 | HP: -5
Blue Creature: AC: 16/14/13 | HP: -0

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=11 ; d3=3 ;
Thursday August 1st, 2019 8:10:56 PM
Sol casts Ray of Frost on the blue chupacabra, trying to distract it somewhat and draw it's attention away from the pig and Blain,

(11 vs Touch AC, 3 Damage)

He then moves to J12, in an attempt to corral the blue chupacabra back round to his melee allies.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=10 ; d20+7=24 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+5=11 ; d6+1=7 ; d20+4=19 ;
Thursday August 1st, 2019 8:42:35 PM
Bigby determines that the charge was worth every hit and just smiles as he attacks. If he goes down he goes out in his own way, as always. claw 10, claw 24, dmg 4. Wolfgang attacks for a bite: 25 (crit not confirmed) dmg 7. Wolfgang attempts to trip it: 19 for trip.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=21 ; d8+3=7 ;
Thursday August 1st, 2019 10:48:20 PM
Caelwyn takes another stab at the red creature, landing a solid hit.

Attack: 21
Damage: 7

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday August 2nd, 2019 6:15:29 AM
Seeing the blue chupacabara make is b-line for the pig, and Blain move to help the pig, Grindar breaks into a full run to get into a position that he hopes forces the creature to deal with him instead of the pig and Blain.

'Lil - (Carl) - 17/17 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 14 d20+4=21 ; 2d6+5=10 ;
Friday August 2nd, 2019 11:01:47 AM
"These boys and their tactical movement," 'Lil thinks to herself as she hefts Ramona up.

"DON'T WORRY PIG. I GOT THIS!" 'Lil charges at the blue chupawhatsit, bringing Ramona smashing down on it.

***

Standard: Charge and attack, hitting AC 21 for 10 damage.

'Lil's AC is 15/9/14 this round.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+6=22 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+6=19 ; d4+1=4 ; d3+1=4 ; d3+1=4 ; d20+4=5 ;
Friday August 2nd, 2019 11:48:22 AM
Grindar reacts quickly and sprints to get to the pig, positioning himself between it and the chupacabara.

Bigby accepts the damage thinking it was worth it and lashes back landing a claw and a bite from his mount. Wolfgan also pulls his head back spilling the chupacabara prone!

Sol launches a shard of ice at the pursuing chupacabara but it sails wide onto the packed ground. Once the ice leaves his had he moves.

Caelway also lands a solid hit on the red chupacabara.

Lil charges across the ground to intercept the blue chupacabara and manages to smash it in the shoulder as she arrives.

Lil’s hit staggers the creature to one knee for a moment but it lashes back with claws and teeth and the move vulnerable Lil. It is very accurate and does substantial damage. {Hit: 22/18/19 Dam: 4/4/4 Grapple: 5} Despite the damage it is good that it did not manage to get a grip with its teeth.

Finding itself with two foes attacking it and laying on the ground the red chupacabara struggles to its feet and attempts to flee. {Bigby and Caelwyn get AOO’s}

Blain skids to a halt at Grindars commant and gives a little cheer. “Go Grindar!” The pig which finds itself trapped between the youth and a large green man its wide terror filled eyes flash back and fort before it darts under the nearby wagon to hide

Red Creature: AC: 16/14/13 | HP: -23
Blue Creature: AC: 16/14/13 | HP: -10

'Lil - (Carl) - 14/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+4=12 ;
Friday August 2nd, 2019 12:30:52 PM
'Lil grunts at the attack, but presses on. She wonders why Grindar's over there playing with a pig, but she's sure he's got his reasons.

Unfortunately, the thoughts are distracting; 'Lil's attack doesn't connect (hit AC 12).

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+9=29 ; d20+9=18 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+5=17 ; d6+1=7 ;
Friday August 2nd, 2019 12:49:15 PM
"You're not getting away that easy!" Bigby takes a claw attack (aoo nat 20 and 18 to confirm. 4, 8 if crit. ooc: just realized hes not prone anymore sorry. 16 to confirm and a nat 20 is a nat 20 i suppose). Bigby and Wolfgang will chase after him if he still moves away and both take an attack on him. (claw attack 10, wolfgang bite 17, 7 dmg).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=4 ;
Friday August 2nd, 2019 6:52:30 PM
Sol moves to L15, making sure he stays between the Chupacabra and the camp, and flings another Ray of Frost at the red creature, but it again misses.

"I must find some more accurate spells... I am not very good at aiming!"

sub Caelwyn d20+5=19 ; d8+3=5 ;
Friday August 2nd, 2019 11:04:49 PM
Caelwyn moves towards the red creature if he can without aoo, otherwise he attacks the blue one. att: 19, 5 dmg.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=13 ; d8=7 ;
Saturday August 3rd, 2019 9:47:25 AM
Grindar makes a double move action, then heroically, he charges forward (used a hero point, and forgot to add +2 for charging so should be a 15) landing a two handed blow causing 15 damage.on the red creature.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+6=23 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+4=14 ; d4+1=4 ; d3+1=3 ; d3+1=2 ;
Monday August 5th, 2019 1:55:59 PM
Lil swings again at blue but misses.
Sol moves and sends another ray of frost into the dirt.
Cewyn moves, following the red creature, and lands another hit.
Bibby lands a deep cut on the creature as it flees the closes and finished off the blue chupacabara.
Grindar takes a might, and heroic, swing and cuts deep into the remaining creature.

The remaining chupacabara sees its mate fall and the pig escaping. It shrieks a shrill call as it lashes with tooth and claw against Grindar. All three attacks hit but it fails to latch on. {Hit: 23/23/18 Dam: 4/3/2}

*DEAD* Red Creature: AC: 16/14/13 | HP: -23 *DEAD*
Blue Creature: AC: 16/14/13 | HP: -25

'Lil - (Carl) - 14/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+4=23 ; 2d6+4=7 ;
Monday August 5th, 2019 2:06:06 PM
'Lil brings Ramona down on this chumpawhatsit, hitting AC 23 for 7 damage. Hopefully that ends it.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 15/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 17/27 -AC 17 d20+9=15 ; d20+7=25 ; d6+1=6 ; d20+7=18 ;
Monday August 5th, 2019 2:29:01 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang will charge and attack if still alive. Bigby attempts attack 15 att, Wolfgang tries to bite, att: 25, dmg: 6. trip: 18.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 20/29 d20+6=15 ; d20+6=10 ; d8+4=11 ;
Monday August 5th, 2019 4:05:26 PM
Grindar attempts a full round action on the remaining creature, connecting with his first swing, but missing on the off hand.

main hand
hits AC 15 for 11 damage
off hand
miss

sub Caelwyn d20+7=12 ;
Monday August 5th, 2019 4:27:58 PM
If still alive Caelwyn will attack again with flanking. att: 12. swing and a miss. Caelwyn feels bad about missing.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=8 ;
Monday August 5th, 2019 6:03:44 PM
Sol also attempts a Ray of Frost at the creature (assuming it is still living), but STILL goes wide.

"I am apparently cursed with bad aim today. This is what I get when we are attacked before I have had a chance to wake up properly..."

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday August 6th, 2019 2:16:00 PM
With grit and determination Sol summons forth another shard of ice to throw at the creature. Something goes wrong and the shard slips, flying backwards and landing nicely in someone’s hot tea cooling it nicely and creating a new specialty of the caravan, Ice Tea.

The patron at the table smiles his thanks.

The rest of the group quickly dispatch the remaining chupacabara. The area is quiet for a moment before Blain calls out.

“The pig is bleeding pretty bad. Can you heal him, errr, her?”

320xp per person
1xp additional for Sol's trick shot.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 2d6=12 ;
Tuesday August 6th, 2019 2:32:21 PM
It'd be a real shame if that pig died after all they did to save it.

She looks around. She's hurt, Bigby's hurt, Grindar's hurt...and that's it.

"You and you, on me," she says, pointing to the two of them. When she's close to the pig and everyone's cozy, she'll channel positive energy. She gasps as more energy than she's ever felt surges through her.

"Woosh...musta made boss man happy with that one," she says as she puts a hand on Bigby to settle herself.

***

Channel energy for 12 HP.

Edit: header

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday August 6th, 2019 4:34:32 PM
Sol sighs.

"Well... a new drink... I should try some... perhaps some good can has come of my attempts."

He looks at the rest of the party, and to the rest of the convoy.

"Is there anything I can do to help?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday August 6th, 2019 5:06:19 PM
"Whoa Lil, are you alright?" Grindar asks as Lil swoons, That was more energy then I think I have ever seen come out of you!

"I'll try one of those iced tea drinks it sounds refreshing!"

Bigby (mike)
Tuesday August 6th, 2019 8:58:32 PM
“Thanks lil. That will do the trick. You need a drink? Sol can cool it down.” Bigby winks at all in a loving jab way and then smiles that everyone is safe.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday August 7th, 2019 1:39:05 PM
"Domi smiles upon you, sister." Caelwyn smiles as his companions are cured of their injuries. "Now, I am about curious about this pig...anyone know where it may have come from, or to whom it belongs?"

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday August 7th, 2019 3:54:00 PM
Sol sighs before trying out the new drink that he seems to have accidently created.
Lil gathers those that are injured and heals them for a surprisingly large amount even she is surprised by the amount of energy she is granted.
Grindar checks to be sure Lil is ok after channeling so much energy.
Bigby thanks Lil for the healing and offers her a cool drink.
Caelwyn is curious about the pig.
Pig the pig is almost as freaked out by the healing as it is by being chased having never experienced anything like this before. It squeals and almost runs before staring at Lil and trotting over to her and sitting down. His looks alternate from Lil to the grass he came out of looking very much like a dog.

The rest of the caravan is getting back to it though Auntie is clearly eyeing the chupacabara to see if they are ediable. Still she does glance at the pig.

"That little piece of meat did not get here by itself I wager. Might be someone hurt out there."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=23 ;
Wednesday August 7th, 2019 4:04:57 PM
"I'm ready to go if you guys are. Maybe afterwards some hunting!" survival to check piggy tracks (23).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday August 7th, 2019 4:28:56 PM
Sol smirks, after taking a sip.

"That is quite nice, I will have to make myself some of that again."

He nods to Bigby

"I am more than happy to continue! This magical armour will protect me for a few hours yet."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+9=20 ;
Wednesday August 7th, 2019 8:22:04 PM
Grindar hears that there may be some in danger. and says simply, "Let's go!" He then follws the pig tracks. survival 20

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday August 7th, 2019 8:37:17 PM
'Lil stoops down to pet the pig.

"Hey Mr. Pig...or Mrs. Pig, not sure. Anyway, glad you're feeling better." She notes Grindar seems to know what he's doing, so she follows.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=4 ;
Wednesday August 7th, 2019 9:15:59 PM
Caelwyn wonders if this is a pet sort of pig, or more the "eat for lunch" kind. But regardless, he will take up shield and trident and follow 'Lil and Grindar, keeping an eye out for potential danger or anyone who needs rescuing. Unfortunately, the grass is very tall...

Perception: 4

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Thursday August 8th, 2019 1:43:36 PM
Grindar gets the idea that thee may be some danger and moves to follow the pigs tracks.
Lil stoops to pet the pig. "Hey Mr. Pig...or Mrs. Pig, not sure. Anyway, glad you're feeling better."
Bigbu ready to check where the pig came from.
Sol likewise is ready as he has a few hours on his mage armor.
Caelwyn wonders if the pig will be a pet or an eat for lunch kind of thing. Regardless he will move with the others and look, poorly, for danger.

Grindar and Bigby can follow the trails pretty easily and it winds back and forth though the grass. Some of the grass is quiet sharp and the areas it goes though are low to the ground as the creatures and the pig were quite short. It quickly becomes clear that some of the pigs wounds came from the grasses themselves.

DC12 Ref or DC12 Fort to avoid 1d3 damage form grass.

The pig and chupacabara tracks come together at points and separate at points as the pig clearly took an erratic path. At one point you are almost back to the encampment before the tracks turn again and move away, clearly the pig spent more time in the grass then it should have. After about thirty minutes you find the corpse of another pig, this one with a leather collar. The dead pig has been mostly devoured raw and a third set of chupacabara tracks joins the first two and leads away form the pig corpse. Clearly a third was with them and doubled back after feasting.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=18 ;
Thursday August 8th, 2019 1:57:34 PM
Sol manages to keep himself out the way of the worst of the grasses.

"These grasses are rather dangerous! Be careful... shall we follow this last creature?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+4=12 ;
Thursday August 8th, 2019 1:59:40 PM
'Lil looks at the collar. "Looks like it was the pet kinda pig instead of the bbq kinda pig." She considers calling dibs on the other pig if something happened to the owner, but decides that's in poor taste.

She grits her teeth as she moves through the grass. Good thing she's so darn tough (fort save 12).

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=21 ; d20+10=11 ;
Thursday August 8th, 2019 2:32:13 PM
fort save 21. Bigby thinks to Wolfgang, get on my druid level Woflgang then we wouldn't have to worry about difficult terrain. 11 survival check.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+5=24 ; d20+9=10 ;
Thursday August 8th, 2019 5:08:22 PM
Grindar zigs and zags through the grasses easily avoiding any wounds (Reflex 24) He does his best to follow the tracks, (survival 12 forgot to add 2 for my favored terrain) hoping to get to the owner of the pigs, before what happened to the pig in front of them, happens to the owners.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+7=20 ;
Thursday August 8th, 2019 9:31:55 PM
Caelwyn also manages to avoid the grass, largely, brushing it aside with his shield. "I think it's more important to discover where the owner of these pigs might have been...any other signs?"

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Friday August 9th, 2019 2:19:17 PM
Sol manages to avoid the worst of the threat the grass in this area is causing.
Lil like wise is ok and wonders if she should call dips on the remaining pig.
Bigby to avoids damage but has a little more trouble looking for tracks.
Caelwyn too manages to avoid damage and wonders about signs of the pigs owner.
Grindar, as with all the others, avoids damage and just barely manages to keep a bead on the tracks to follow.

The grass is still dangerous but you come upon something of a path, which is good. On the sides of the path the grass is so think as to be nearly impassable, which is bad. Trying to move though the grass will certainly cause damage and will slow you down, even worse. ¼ Speed and DC16 Ref or DC16 Fort to avoid 1d3+1 damage form grass. This is only of off the path.

Bigby’s sharp ears do hear something…. Something that sounds like it is having a very messy meal. You are not completely sure what is ahead, but it is clearly eating. Two paths diverge form where you are one looping NE and one NW.

Map is updated. This one is a little different, part has not been revealed, you are on the honor system not to peak.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday August 9th, 2019 5:01:05 PM
"Well, I ain't walking through that mess. Let's take this right path since it's...you know, the right path? That's solid logic, yea?"

'Lil starts walkin'.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday August 9th, 2019 7:39:51 PM
Sol chuckles at 'Lil's statement.

"Well I cannot find a flaw with it... so why not?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday August 9th, 2019 11:24:22 PM
"Let's hurry, that doesn't sound good..." Caelwyn gestures up ahead to the path and the noises coming from it. "Right path seems as good as any."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=13 d20+10=13
Saturday August 10th, 2019 1:41:16 PM
"Right right...two rights don't make a wrong, so by that logic, we go right then." (perception 13, survival 13).

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Sunday August 11th, 2019 12:48:16 PM
Grindar realizes the logic in going with the rest of the party, so he follows his friends encouraging haste, and hoping they aren't too late. He then moves ahead 20ft.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=16 ; d10=2 ; d20+10=12 ;
Monday August 12th, 2019 8:10:27 AM
Forgot to mention in my post that Grindar is doing his best to keep his eyes and ears open to his surroundings, Perception 16, and looking for tracks to follow, Survival 12 (please ignore the d10, my mouse slipped) If he sees tracks going up the left path he would go that way instead, and inform his friends they should do likewise.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+8=28 ; d20+8=23 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=4 ;
Monday August 12th, 2019 3:19:20 PM
Lil declares she is not walking though the mess of grass and decides on the right path.
Sol sees no flaw and goes that way as well.
Caelwyn suggests they hurry and that the right path sounds good.
Bigby agrees with right and keeps his eyes open.
Grindar leads the way while keeping his eyes open.

Grindar seems to have the sharpest eyes and can see some tracks up both left and right. He also notices that the eating noise seems to have stopped when the group started talking. Further both he and Bigby notice that the small creatures they fought before probably have an easier time in the grass then they would have.

As the party moves up those to the front of the line catch some movement as a larger more robust chupacabara rushes at Grindar. It snaps with its jaws for what could be a very hard bite. {Hit: 28 | Crit Confirm: 23 | Dam: 2 | Crit Dam: 4} Despite landing a solid hit it does not even attempt to grab as it sees others behind the half-orc. Looking at the line of interlopers hit screeches a further warning.

{ooc: Note you are in single file in the path. Map updated.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 d20=16 ; d20=7 ; d8=3 ; d8=6 ;
Monday August 12th, 2019 3:35:05 PM
"Bad choice!", Grindar says as the creature lands it's blow, then to his friends he says, "Look alive friends, I think he's calling friends!" he then throws down a full round attack.

Main Hand
16+6=22 for 3+4=7 damage

Off Hand
7+6=13 for 6+4=10 damage

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=15 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=6 ;
Monday August 12th, 2019 3:48:05 PM
Bigby and wolfgang will move to n 12 next to grindar and take an attack. He will slowly 5' around to give space for others. Claw and a bite attack. 15 for claw 5dmg, bite: 6.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+2=14 ; d3=2 ;
Monday August 12th, 2019 3:59:14 PM
Sol lets out a little noise of surprise. apparently taken aback by the appearance of the new creature, and he immediately flings a Ray of Frost at the Creature.

2 Damage if it hits (which I doubt)

"Another one of these cursed creatures..."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=14 ;
Monday August 12th, 2019 9:03:38 PM
Caelwyn immediately realizes their peril. "Bigby, can you move next to Grindar without getting into that grass? Lil, if you can watch their backs and keep them healthy Sol and I will watch the path behind us - I'm afraid we are about to get flanked, and we will be hemmed in here if there are too many of them. But perhaps we can flank them ourselves if we can take the left hand path!"

If the others agree, Caelwyn will start moving with Sol back the way they came, hoping to get around and attack the creatures from behind. It will do no good to have everyone stacked on top of each other if they can only put one or two in the front line.

Perception: 14

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d8+3=7 ;
Tuesday August 13th, 2019 10:26:37 AM
'Lil frowns a bit. Healing duty? Stay in the middle? What was she, a wizard?

Cae's probably right, though, so she does. For the first time, she wonders if Ramona is really the ideal weapon for this place. She considers she may want to trade her big ol' hammer in for a big ol' longspear.

***

Readied action: CLW on anyone who drops to below 50% health: 7 healing

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+8=14 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+8=20 ; d3+1=3 ; d3+1=4 ;
Tuesday August 13th, 2019 11:13:00 AM
Sol lets another shard of ice fly at the creature but it simply shatters on its tough hide.

Caelwyn urges Bigby to squeeze in next to Grindar and fight while asking Lil to watch that they do not get killed. He then moves to try and get around the creature the other way. {ooc: Did a standard move speed as you would have spent a few seconds talking}

Lil frowns a bit at healing duty but knows Caelwyn might be right and readies to heal anyone who is over hurt.

Bigby moves around Grindar, which works thanks to his small stature, and attacks. Sadly he fails to connect.

Grindar lets the chupacabara know it has made a grave error and lashes out. His first attack lands true asl he lets the others know that she may be calling friends.

Having been hit again the beast lashes out at Grindar with claws and teeth. {Hit: 14/18/20 Dam: 3/4} No one spots any further movement. Caelwyn, as he moves around the other path, gets just far enough to see blood soaking into the hard packed soil. From where he is it looks to be the edge of a larger area of blood. He to sees no movement in the grasses around you all.

Chupacabara AC: 17/15/14 HP: -7

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday August 13th, 2019 1:30:48 PM
'Lil punches Grindar playfully in the back. "Come on, dude. Stop bleedin' all over the place."

***

Using the CLW roll from last round: 7 HP healed on Grindar, Son of Grindor, Star Vocalist of the Sargrass Plains.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=9 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=15 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+4=5 ;
Tuesday August 13th, 2019 1:51:25 PM
Bigby attacks with both claws. 9, 12. Wolfgang tries to take a bite. 24 (15 to confirm crit). 5 (10 if crit). Wolfgang attempts a trip. 5. Bigby takes comfort knowing that his friend Grindar is handling buisness. Atleast someone is

ooc: can I 5' around or does it have to be a squeeze?

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 d20=14 ; d20=5 ; d8=4 ;
Tuesday August 13th, 2019 6:34:58 PM
Grindar goes in for another full round attack

main hand
14+6=20 for 8 damage

off hand
5+6=13 miss

OOC.. Wouldn't woodland stride keep Bigby safe from the blade grass, or is this a unique situation? Woodland Stride (Ex)
Starting at 2nd level, a druid may move through any sort of undergrowth (such as natural thorns, briars, overgrown areas, and similar terrain) at her normal speed and without taking damage or suffering any other impairment. Thorns, briars, and overgrown areas that have been magically manipulated to impede motion, however, still affect her.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+2=12 ; d20+2=3 ;
Wednesday August 14th, 2019 2:35:21 AM
Sol curses his bad aim and decides to try one more Ray of Frost before attempting something different, but still misses the creature.

"Blast my aim!"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20-4=16 ; d20+2=8 ;
Wednesday August 14th, 2019 1:39:52 PM
Caelwyn cautiously proceeds around the path in the opposite direction, trident and shield at the ready, doing his best to move quietly and listening for any sign of another creature...or more than one. He hopes someone else is following him to support.

Stealth check: Natural 20

Perception: 8

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+8=26 ; d4+1=4 ;
Wednesday August 14th, 2019 2:29:16 PM
Lil, as planned heals Grindar back up some. {+7HP}
BIgby cannot land with either of his claws but Wolfgang manaes to bite, though not trip the chupacabara.
Grindar again manage to land only one of his two attacks.
Sol manages to badly throw another ice cube.
Caelwyn manges to be sneaky and follows the western path up and around to a larger clearing.

The clearning the Caelwyn finds is fairly large but covered in blood and gore. A bloody and mutilated horse lays on its side with two of its legs bent at unnatural angles. Marks of claws and teeth cover its body. Next to the horse is the body of a dead human. For the dress you would guess some sort of traveler or merchant though the clothing is bloody and ripped almost beyond recognition. Next to the hangs of the body is a long spear that is also covered in blood, the handle more so then the tip. Blood covers the entire area as both of the bodies have been mauled and most likely dragged about some.

To the north two additional paths lead one on each side as before.

The Chupacabra is really focused on Grindar but only attacks with one bite this time. {Hit: 26 | Dam: 4} As soon as its teeth pull out it scampers back, stepping on the body of the human, and getting to the entrance of one of the other, northern, pathways.

{ooc: Bigby and Grindar get an AOO}

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=11 ; d20+6=25 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+4=23 ; d6+1=3 ; d20+4=6 ;
Wednesday August 14th, 2019 4:18:49 PM
11 aoo. Bigby and wolfgang move up 50' to k5 (wolfgangs got 50 movemnt). "Oh no you don't." And attack with one claw and one bite. claw: 25, dmg 4. bite: 23, dmg 3. Trip attack: 6.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Wednesday August 14th, 2019 5:23:03 PM
Sol moves to M11 to give chase, and casts Magic Missile at the Chupacabra for 7 damage total.

"We must give chase if we do not stop it, the creature may continue to harass the settlement!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 d20+8=17 ; d8=3 ;
Wednesday August 14th, 2019 9:17:10 PM
Grindar seeing the beastie trying to escape, brings Cyrchwr Mawr down in a two handed attack. Hitting for 9 damage.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 d20+5=19 ; d6+4=6 ;
Wednesday August 14th, 2019 9:23:53 PM
OOC... Sorry hit the submit button prematurely.

After the AOO, Grindar moves forward 20 feet while drawing a javelin. he takes aim and lets fly hitting the fleeing beast for 6 damage.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+3=4 ;
Thursday August 15th, 2019 12:06:24 PM
'Lil moves up to cover Sol's rear, just in case.

Readied attack: Nat 1 - Let's hope nothing comes up behind us.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=13 ; d8+3=7 ;
Thursday August 15th, 2019 8:50:31 PM
Caelwyn will try to cut off the beast's retreat, charging forward and stabbing it with his trident. If he cannot get within stabbing range he will throw the trident.

Attack 13, Damage 7

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain d20+8=22 ; d10=5 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=15 ; d4+1=3 ;
Friday August 16th, 2019 10:56:07 AM
Grindar manages to land a hit as the creature flees. He follows up with a javelin that misses.
Bigby cannot connect as the creature runs backwards but does close quickly and he and Wolfgang land attacks.
Sol takes a step up and casts a spell that will reliable hit, magic missile.
Lil moves to cover Sol.
Caelwyn moves up and attempts to stab the creature.

Bleeding the Chupacabra attempts what are likely its last actions in the Wold. It attacks with claws and teeth and Bigby but only the bit connects. {Hit: 22/13/15 Dam: 3}

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d6=5 ; d6=2 ;
Friday August 16th, 2019 11:11:38 AM
With the chubrawhatsit almost dead and Bigby/Caelwyn about to pound it, 'Lil moves up w/ Sol, making sure not to leave the wizard at the rear of the party. Once the thing is good and dead, she'll channel energy to top everyone off, healing 7 HP.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=17 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+4=13 ; d2+3=5 ;
Friday August 16th, 2019 12:47:50 PM
Bigby thinks this will be your last action chupacabra. two claw attacks: 17, 8. 5 dmg. Wolfgang attempts bite attack 13.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+2=8 ;
Friday August 16th, 2019 1:16:33 PM
Sol, not wishing to expend more arcane power than is necessary flings another Ray of Frost, which promptly misses.

"I will have to gain access to a spellbook to gain some new spells that do not require me to aim since I am apparently rather terrible at it..."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=22 ; d8+3=4 ;
Friday August 16th, 2019 11:22:16 PM
Caelwyn makes a final attempt to stab the thing. "Just die already, for Domi's sake!"

Attack 22, Damage 4

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 d20+10=27 ; d8+6=9 ;
Saturday August 17th, 2019 8:46:48 AM
With a mighty roar, Grindar races forward, charging the creature. He bring Cyrchwr Mawr down in another two-handed attack causing 9 damage.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Monday August 19th, 2019 11:20:19 AM
Lil provides some more healing
Bigby connects with his claws
Sol conserves his magic and sends another ray of frost into the sargrass
Caelwyn connects with his trident
Grndar lands another blow.

It is hard to tell which attack ended the creature but between Bigby, Caelwyn and Grindar the Chupacabra is brought low. It’s blood adds to the sickening scene of the bloody and dead horse and its human rider. Clearly he had been set upon by the group of Chupacabra and you would guess that this one, the alpha, sent the others after the pigs that ran off.

Examining the body and belongings it is not hard to guess that this man was coming to set up a shop as a general merchant. His saddle bags are heavy with mundane items in new or nearly new condition. Among his belongings there are a few things that may be of more interest. The first is a well-made wand that anyone would guess has some sort of magic. The other is the short sword that he carried; it is of masterwork quality. There is also coin.

{ooc: how much coin will be determined when you respond to my email.}

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Monday August 19th, 2019 12:05:58 PM
'Lil looks to make sure her friends ain't bleedin'. They seem fine.

She heads over to the merchant & kneels down. "Imagine decidin' to stomp solo through this place just to earn some coin. Brother, there are safer ways to make a living." She closes the merchant's eyelids. She appreciates the irony of her statements, but she brought four dudes with her. Not even 'Lil would go alone in this place, and she's a priest of bravery.

"Let's get his body back to camp for burial. Someone there may know him and wanna say goodbye." She supposes the spoils of battle are theirs, but he may have sent a family ahead or something. They should make sure before they start plunderin'.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday August 19th, 2019 12:51:39 PM
Bigby smells the body of the chupacabra. "wonder if it tastes like chicken?" Bigby heads over to help 'Lil move the body.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday August 19th, 2019 2:50:32 PM
Caelwyn's heart is heavy as he looks over the scene. "What a tragedy...if only he had been closer, we might have been able to save his life. I agree, we must get him back to town for a proper burial."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Monday August 19th, 2019 4:07:18 PM
Sol nods.

"Yes, perhaps he has friends who could tell us how he would like to be buried, and even what he would want done with his belongings."

He pauses.

"Lil, do you know any funerary rites?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Monday August 19th, 2019 5:46:42 PM
Grindar doesn't say a word, he is too saddened by the fact that they weren't able to save this person. He gently, and respectfully as possible, picks the gentleman's body up, and begins walking back to town.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday August 20th, 2019 12:35:05 PM
Bigby smells the body of the chupacabara wondering if it tastes like chicken.
Cawlwyn has a heavy heart declaring the sight before them a tragedy.
Grindar doesn’t say a word but gently and respectfully as possible picks up the gentleman body to walk back to the encampement.
Lil checks her frinds and kneels by the body. “"Imagine decidin' to stomp solo through this place just to earn some coin. Brother, there are safer ways to make a living.” She realizes that not even she would go alone to this place and she is a priest of bravery. "Let's get his body back to camp for burial. Someone there may know him and wanna say goodbye."
Sol suggest someone may know him in camp and questions Lil if she knows funerary rites.

The trip back is without incident and Grindar is able to carry the body with relative ease, is condition has made it a bit lighter to begin with. You arrive back near the caravan to see Blain and Daphne tending to the injured but seemingly happy pig. As you get closer you can see the members of the caravan lower there heads at your grisly cargo.

The pig trots over sniffing the air. It comes close to Grindar and noses the hand of its former master for a moment before lowering its head and moving to follow where you go. Can pigs feel loss? Hard to say but you have heard they are as smart as dogs so maybe.

One of the nearby monks looks at the body, nods and speaks before moving off. “I will ask around, see if anyone knows him.”

It will be a moment before he returns. During that time the members of the caravan each come and look, shaking their head that they do not recognize the stranger. Auntie is grim and seems to speak for the caravan. “Brave to be out there alone, we have numbers and could easily have been killed. This fellow did not know what he was getting into or was desperate it is hard to say. At least you showed your noble natures again by bringing his body back.”

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday August 20th, 2019 1:26:59 PM
"Lotsa people think there's a lotta money to be made out here, I guess. Maybe he wuz bein' greedy and didn't wanna share his profits, who knows?"

'Lil's a priest, so she probably does know some funerary rites. She asks around for some candles and oil she can bless. Do they have candles out here? Maybe a bee merchant'll come around soon.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday August 20th, 2019 1:37:46 PM
Bigby considers what he knows about death rites, "we can bury him and plant a tree on his grave, or some would see it as an honor to have everything used from becoming food, to being worn...but maybe we should just go with what you humans do...candles and stuff."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Tuesday August 20th, 2019 6:06:29 PM
Grindar lays the body down gently, being sure to cushion the head with his hand. he wants to show his respect, and keeps his opinion to himself. As he steps back, he wonders why anyone including himself would come out to a place like this, but then he remembers the family of friends he has found here, and smiles thinking it well worth it.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday August 20th, 2019 8:20:29 PM
Caelwyn stands next to the body with his head bowed. He asks Domi to bless the soul of the man in the next life.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Wednesday August 21st, 2019 4:26:33 AM
Sol, watches the funerary rites and tries to help getting things that are needed, then patiently watches the funeral itself, in silence so as to respect the man.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday August 21st, 2019 2:47:29 PM
Grindar lays the body down gently and keeps his opinions o himself.
Bigby suggests burying him and planting a tree on his grave but quickly moves to human traditions.
Lil comments on why people come here and asks around about candles and oils.
Caelwyn stands next to the body head bowed and asks Domi to bless the soul of the man in the next life
Sol watches what is going on and will help as needed, in silence out of respect for the man.

Auntie nods at the request for candles and oils and motions to Blane who runs off to the green wagon, Emrys’s Ointments and Salves. After a moment a voice is heard and then a drunk Emrys comes back with Blain along with a box of candles, two jars of scented oil and a smoldering stick that can be used to light the candles.

While this is going on the young monk returns with another young man in tow. The young man stops by the wagons and approaches slowly. When he sees the pig sitting there he smiles before thinking about the situation and frowning. “I know him, kind of. He is a friend of my little brothers…. Wanted to come out here when I did but he was ill. He must have come with his pet pigs.” he looks around “Is there only one pig? He had two….” he pauses “I see… I see…. Will you be sure he is put to rest? I can dig if needed.”

200xp each for last fight and bringing body back.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday August 21st, 2019 3:51:20 PM
Bigby will help dig the grave and observe what humans do with their dead.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday August 21st, 2019 4:32:41 PM
'Lil blesses the oil, and the candles, and performs last rites. She may be a violent, harsh talking priest, but she's still a priest.

She sighs internally as she goes about the business. Not only did this man come out into the Sargrass alone, but he did it dragging two pork chops behind him. There's a line between bravery and stupidity. It was her job to know that line. This man took a running leap over it.

"We should send word back to Hook City that coming out here solo is too dangerous. I'd really rather this be the last time I gotta do this. I mean, it won't, but I'd sure like it to be."

She catches Bigby watchin'er. "First funeral, dude? We put ours in the ground, or burn'em. Some folks put'em on boats and drift them off, but not most. Some rich folks pay a lotta money to put themselves somewhere their corpses won't get eaten by worms and whatnot. Typical...they spend their whole lives takin', and can't even give back a tiny bit after they're dead."

She wonders what's gonna happen to that pig. That's a friendly pig, not an eatin' pig.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Wednesday August 21st, 2019 7:34:55 PM
Sol listens to the funeral, saddened, but also excited to see the different styles and prayers. When Lil mentions sending word back to Hook City, he speaks up for the first time in a while.

"I agree... though we have no simple way of contacting them do we?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday August 21st, 2019 9:18:16 PM
Caelwyn will assist in burying the body. "Perhaps if someone else is heading back to Hook city soon, they would be willing to take the message for us?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Thursday August 22nd, 2019 5:01:48 AM
Grindar pitches in with digging the grave, then when the time is right, he gentle transports the body to the hole they dug. He listens solemnly as Lil performs her priestly duties, and when the funeral is over, he helps cover the body and fill the hole. He is a bit amazed that a women like Lil, who can be so bold and tough, can also be so gentle and caring, the juxtaposition is both amusing and pleasant to the half-orc. The way his friends care for someone whom they have never met reaffirms that he is right where he belongs, and he is thankful he has met this band of brothers and sister.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Thursday August 22nd, 2019 11:44:59 AM
Bigby helps to dig the grave and observes the human traditions.
Grindar helps with digging the hole and listens somberly as the rites are performed. He is heartened by the way his friends care for someone they have never met.
Lil goes about the business of a funeral while considering the foolishness of coming here alone. She does suggest sending word back to Hook City to warn against coming alone.
Sol listens to the funeral but excited to see different styles of prayer. He agrees with sending word to Hook City but knows of no simple way.
Caelwyn assists with the burial of the body and suggest that someone may be heading to Hook City at some point who could send word.
Lil also explains to Bigby more about funerals.

Few people other then the caravan join in the funeral ceremony, excepting the one who knew of the man and a few monks. While the hole is being filled Auntie stand head bowed but Mumbles watches and begins to quietly hum a tune. As the toon builds you learn that despite his lack of speech he can carry quite the toon as notes rise and fall in his humming before they abruptly cut off and he turns and walks away.

Through all of this the pig sat near the hole but when it is filled it walks over to Blain and sits, leaning against the boys leg. I is clear that Lil’s thoughts are correct this is not an eating pig.

When all is said and done the fellow who know of the deceased approaches the party along with Auntie. Auntie hands over the contents of the chest she had offered some time ago and the man gives you the jewels that were in the deceased purse. All in all the group gets 5000gp in total.

It is midday at this point, the initial disturbance having happened at breakfast. People are going about their day and the caravan is focused on its business. You see both Edith and Archie speaking with a few vendors buying things for their establishments. A few others come and go as well, some for commerce and some for Aunite’s cooking.

The sun is high in the cloudless sky and it is a good day. What are you doing now?

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday August 22nd, 2019 1:36:50 PM
'Lil thinks it's about time to get back to doin' what they came out here to do: get help rebuildin' Rattledam.

They've talked to a caravan to arrange trade with the place, and they have an idea about where some druidwood may be, but it's iffy and far away. Maybe still worth it?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday August 22nd, 2019 7:57:13 PM
"we didn't get all dressed up for nuttin. We came out for druidwood. We should go back with druidwood. Right?" In the meantime, lets sell some items.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday August 22nd, 2019 8:33:09 PM
"Aye, we should look into selling some things perhaps...we could use the money." Caelwyn agrees that they need to focus on getting help for the rebuilding of Rattledam. Hopefully the others would still be there when they returned...

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Friday August 23rd, 2019 1:47:34 AM
Sol nods.

"I agree. We have a task, and should get to it. Perhaps we can areange some sort of trade treaty with these people?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Friday August 23rd, 2019 5:00:18 AM
"Maybe we can convince Auntie to join us at Rattledam in the future", Grindar suggests, then adds, "But for now, let's sell somethings, hopefully we have earned enough that I can get Cychwr Mawr upgraded!"

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Friday August 23rd, 2019 11:13:43 AM
Lil reminds them all why they are there to help Rattledamn by getting druidwood.
Bigby agrees that it is time to focus on the druidwood mission.
Sol considers making a trade treaty with the people at the encampement.
Grindar considers getting Auntie to join them in Rattledamn in the future and wants to sell some of what they have acquired.
Caewlwyn agrees that they should sell some items and then focus on the task at hand.

Already having made some money it is easy to see that the various members of the caravan are happy to conduct transaction. (through the catacomb naturally} It should not take long to sell when you need and make purchases as you can afford.

One of the young monks that had been assigned to you is seen about and hears the talk of druidwood. He nods. "Our leaders. Brother Flitch and Brother Attius, should be back late tonight. I am sure they can help with directions to find what you need. I know they have spoken of the properties of the duridwood being well suited to life in the Sargrass."

He looks around before pulling a small pouch from his neck and opening it. Inside is a knot of wood, about one inch across, which he holds up. He smiles excitedly. "I came here with this. It’s druid wood, my fathers' father was a druid and my father wore this pouch his whole life. Now I wear it." He quickly slips it back into the pouch around his neck. "I am sure they can help you find what you need if the need is that great."

Life keeps moving around you. More people have come and made some purchase and minor sales with the caravan. Enough that it is clear that the will have the cash on hand for what you need.

The pig has found a spot next to the "Weaving the World" wagon and is laying happily in the shade.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday August 23rd, 2019 11:39:51 AM
'Lil does some shoppin' before Flitch and Attius get back. Would they be travelling at night, or tomorrow she wonders. That's a decision best left to someone what knows what they're doin'.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday August 23rd, 2019 11:53:10 PM
Caelwyn hopes the monks arrive soon. He is beginning to get anxious about the colonists they left behind in Rattledam, and wants to get the job taken care of quickly.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Saturday August 24th, 2019 1:20:43 PM
Grindar joins Lil for a little shopping as they wait for the monks to return.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Saturday August 24th, 2019 1:26:54 PM
Sol just watches the day go by, enjoying the calmness. He also starts thinking of possible trade treaties that might be able to be drawn up.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Sunday August 25th, 2019 6:42:19 PM
Bigby attempts to sell a couple of items at the catacombs for the party. He will ask around if anyone knows of any WLA members or charters around. "need to pay me dues."

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Monday August 26th, 2019 2:23:39 PM
Lil does some shipping before the head monks get back.
Caelwyn hopes the monks arrive soon as he is anxious about the colonists they left behind.
Grindar joins Lil for a little shopping.
Sol enjoys the day and thinks of trade.
Bigby begins to handle the lion share of the trading the party is to do and considers looking for a WLA member.

It seems to be a low key day now that the morning unpleasantness is completed. Little is going on and people go about their business. Blane has really taken to the pig and has discovered it actually knows a few tricks; sit, stay and even fetch seem to come naturally. At one point Blane jokingly says guard and the pig actually takes up a watch position. The lad is trilled and plays with him all day.

Towards dusk two of the monks that had been assigned to you come to releave the fellow who had been with you for some time. They both are smiling quite widely as they approach and for some reason head straight to Lil. “Brother Flitch and Brother Attius are just returned. They are clearly exhausted but wish to speak with you. I, well, I told them about the fights you had and they are impressed that you have defended the outpost. I have been told they need to clean up but can meet you in an hour at the Stone Temple.”

The monks are clearly happy about this turn of events.

Sense Motive DC13 Highlight to display spoiler: { Clearly they received personal attention from the leaders, probably for the first time. }

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+10=14 ;
Monday August 26th, 2019 5:13:51 PM
'Lil decides against shoppin', choosing instead to keep this neat rod they found and let everyone else keep most of the gold. Seems fair.

She chuckles to herself at the excited monks. She ain't sure who she'd get that excited about being noticed by...well, Domi. Yea, she'd be pretty stoked about that.

She's waiting when the rest of her dudes get back from shopping. "Yo, Attius and Flitch are back and wanna talk to us tonight over at the Stone Temple. Couple'a acolytes were real pumped about something."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 d20+2=16 ;
Monday August 26th, 2019 5:14:05 PM
Grindar smiles as he realizes why the monks seem so happy. (sense motive 16) Even though he doesn't buy into the whole hierarchy thing, he is happy for them none the less. "We'll be there", Grindar offers, with a smile. Then to his friends he says, "Shall we head over to the temple now?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+2=12 ;
Monday August 26th, 2019 9:46:23 PM
wonder what they meant by that. oh well. "let's fly over there quickly as stone temple pilots."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=20 ;
Tuesday August 27th, 2019 8:21:08 AM
Sol smiles, as he understands why the Monks are happy, and nods to Lil.

"I think we all agree we will be there. If you need any cleaning up I have just the spell prepared." ((Sol will use Prestidigitation on anyone who wants to be cleaned))

"This should be exciting, getting to meet the elders? Leaders? What is the correct term for them?"

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Tuesday August 27th, 2019 2:50:45 PM
Lil quickly lets the others know that Attius and Flitch are back and want to talk at the Stone Temple. Also that the monks were really pumped up about it.
Grindar too announces that they will be there and asks if his teammates are ready to head over.
Sol offers to help the team freshen up before they head over. He also wonders what the proper titles are.
Bigby wants to fly over as quickly as a Stone Temple pilot, whatever that is.

At Sol’s mention of helping to clean up the group one of the monk’s mumbles that that would be a good idea. He glances at Grindar and Bigby who seem to have blood on them from the day’s battles. Naturally he is too polite to mention that old blood gets a distinctive odder after some time.

Once situated and clean the party heads in the direction of the Stone Temple. A large structure clearly built with stone that is not from the local environment or at least not in its current state. The stone temple is constructed of simple grey-ish stones with some sandstone mixed in to highlight and contrast colors in places. At only one story tall but wide you can see that this images of druid trees are carved into the stone in various places. The druid trees appear to be looking towards the door. The doors, also built from materials not consistent with the environment, are hard wood with iron bandings. Carved into the door is an image of what appears to be a god but not one you would easily identify. Know Religion DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Most likely Mittiri, a god of nature who died in the Year of Ascension. }

The heavier of your monk escorts push open one of these great doors which clearly takes some effort, it could be weighted better.

The doors open onto a sort of great hall with several areas you can sit and a large table in one corner. You are pointed towards the table where two monks are sitting. Both are dirty and clearly exhausted, one rests his head in his hands while the other is kind of staring off into space, kind of up and to his right.

Neither looks up at the party and your escort has slipped back towards the doors waiting.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=18 ;
Tuesday August 27th, 2019 3:41:11 PM
'Lil takes it all in. She ain't sure what that dude on the door is, but he must be important. She wonders if the doors are made from druid wood. Seems like a waste of druid wood if they are...of course, the stuff's got religious significance, so who's she to judge?

She follows the guy's gaze, seeing if he's lookin' at something (perception 18).

So...it's quiet in here. Should she say somethin'? Yea, probably. They invited them, after all. She clears her throat.

"You two look like you've seen some stuff since you left." She walks to the table and takes a seat, leaning back with her legs crossed. "Good to see you're in one piece, though. What's up?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Tuesday August 27th, 2019 5:03:39 PM
Grindar thanks Sol for the freshen up, then as he enters the temple, he follows Lil's lead and heads to the table. he is about to sit, then he remembers his manners and asks, "Is it OK if we have a seat good sirs?" He hopes that Lil's straight forward approach isn't taken as an offense by the monks, but what's done is done.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+9=25 ;
Tuesday August 27th, 2019 9:58:07 PM
Caelwyn prays to Domi silently for patience...he and Lil may worship the same deity, but her blunt mannerisms cause him concern, sometimes. He steps into the room and addresses the monks respectfully.

"Brothers, thank you for your willingness to see us so soon after your return. You both must be exhausted. But we greatly value this opportunity to speak with you."

Diplomacy: 25

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday August 27th, 2019 10:44:31 PM
Bigby looks at the blood on his fur at the mention of it and begins to lick but then looks at sol cleaning up Grindar and then stops. "ok, get me too sol." After being clean and presentable he joins with the rest.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Wednesday August 28th, 2019 3:06:15 PM
Bigby learns a better way to keep clean.
Lil wonders if the doors are druid wood but they do not appear to be. When she sees the men she takes the direct approach. "You two look like you've seen some stuff since you left. Good to see you're in one piece, though. What's up?"
Grindar, now clean, follows Lil to the table and asks if it is ok to sit with them.
Caelwyn is a little concerned by Lil’s blunt mannerisms and takes a more diplomatic approach.

The monk who had been staring into space simply continues to look off at nothing you can see. At Lil’s words the monk who has his head in his hands gives a small chuckle and slowly looks up. He looks at the party pausing first at Lil and then for much longer at Bigby. After a moment of looking at Bigby he blinks and shrugs before speaking to the group.

"Ahhh.. um, you’re the group, er, people that um…. well you killed some things that needed killing in the encampment? You, um… outsiders. Er, well, you’re a diverse group to sure….” he kind of trails off for a second but picks back up just half a second after it became ackward "Im um…. Attius and, um, this fine fellow is Flitch.” he nods and looks to Flitch who blinks and turns to look at you all finally.

Flitch licks his lips and clears his throat before speaking in a low horse whisper. "Welcome, pardon my voice and appearance we were on the front lines so to speak and were pretty worn down. "Still we must sing our guilt."”

Looking at the monks you can see that they are both dusty from the road. Attius is a tall thin to the point of being gaunt man with a bald head. The lines on his face are deep but he is probably younger then you would think, just a lot of time in the sun. Flitch is heavier and has some red hair surrounding a bald spot on top. Both are clearly exhausted.

Attius picks back up. "Yes, um.. we were singing for several days and, un, its taxing and clearly dirty.” he gives a small nervous laugh at the end. "What is it that brings you outsider, er, travels… yes travelers here.”

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+10=26 ;
Wednesday August 28th, 2019 4:02:55 PM
'Lil picks up on this dude staring at Bigby. She don't like it, but tries to give him the benefit of the doubt. Maybe he's just never seen a beastdude before...or maybe he's racist, or maybe he's had to kill things what look like Bigby over the past few days.

Sense motive: 26. Why'd that dude look at Bigby like that?

She figures Sol can clean'em up. She doesn't have any magic to make'em not tired, though.

"Well," she starts before Caelwyn can say the same thing using too many words, "we're working with folks to rebuild Rattledam. We came to find folks to help with that. You know, folks to trade with, folks what know stuff we need to survive, maybe some Druidwood so we can get about the Sargrass a little easier." She stretches. These monks ain't the only ones who're tired.

"This place is rough. Pretty, but monsters seem to be everywhere. If we're gonna rebuild Rattledam, we'll need plenty of help."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday August 28th, 2019 4:43:05 PM
Bigby looks back at the monk not understanding quite what the look is for but he decides to be friendly and winks at him. I think that's what humans do to each other. He listens in and nods as 'Lil speaks.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday August 28th, 2019 9:17:43 PM
Caelwyn is fairly pleased with what 'Lil has said. He feels a bit sorry for the monks, who clearly look like they have been through some serious difficulties.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Thursday August 29th, 2019 3:14:57 AM
Sol nods to the monks, and if allowed will take a seat, but not before offering to clean them up if they monks want it.

However, he let's Lil continue to discuss things with the Monks, as it is not his expertise.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Thursday August 29th, 2019 5:11:44 AM
Grindar doesn't add anything to the conversation, as it seems that his strait to the point friend has things under control at the moment.

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Thursday August 29th, 2019 2:16:18 PM
Lil notices that Attius spent some time staring at Bigby but chalks it up to his seeing something completely new in their companion. She pushes forward. "Well, we're working with folks to rebuild Rattledam. We came to find folks to help with that. You know, folks to trade with, folks what know stuff we need to survive, maybe some Druidwood so we can get about the Sargrass a little easier."
Bibby looks back at the monk and winks.
Caelwyn is please with what Lil says and holds his tongue feeling a little bad for the bedraggled monks.
Sol also lets Lil be the face though he is willing to clean up the monks if they want.
Grindar adds nothing thinking things are under control.

Attius starts to speak but before he gets much stammered out Flitch interrupts him, not in an unfriendly. “Rebuild Rattledam… well it makes since that more outisders would keep coming. Almost beat us back to the Saragrass really. Well let me consider.”

He pauses for barely a moment and Attius jumps right back in having gotten his thoughts a bit. “Now Flitch we, er, we don’t know anything was the fault of the outsiders it, well um, could have been us as well. These here did some good and what, er, what is that we say?”

Flitch frowns at Attius and responds with a very flat horse voice. “We sing our guilt.”

“What? er well yes ummmm but not what I was.” Attius shakes his head “Trust must be earned, right? Well, er, they earned some, um trust I think.”

There is a bit more discussion of what is going on before Attius finally ends it with his first clearly stated sentences. “Flitch, sit back down. I’m going to show them the things in the museum, you know the skiff.” Sadly the forceful comments end there. “Err, that is if, well, if you want to see. It, um, I think it will, um, help.”

For his part Flitch sits back down after asking Sol if he is a wizard and know the simple spell to clean. He waves one of the younger monks at the door over and askes to be brought his ledger while Attius does his thing.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday August 29th, 2019 2:30:00 PM
"What a weird relationship these two dudes have..." she thinks to herself. Her ears perk up at talk of a skiff.

"Sure, we could use all the help we can get!" 'Lil stands, ready to see what Attius has to show them.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday August 29th, 2019 4:17:08 PM
we sing our guilt. Like I feel guilty after singing. Interesting. "If skiff means druid boat, then count us in!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Thursday August 29th, 2019 5:55:04 PM
“You had me at museum”, Grindar exclaims, “And then you said skiff! That’s amazing, lead the way brother Attius!”

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday August 29th, 2019 8:57:21 PM
Caelwyn nods, eager to see what the monks might have to offer.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Friday August 30th, 2019 3:13:06 AM
"Indeed! A museum sounds incredibly pleasant! Though it seems an odd place to have one, though who am I to judge."

He smiles brightly at Flitch's question.

"Yes I am, or at least a beginning one... I do know the spell you speak of, Prestidigitation and have it prepared, would you like me to cast it on you?"

GM Ryan Maps and Artwork Race to Crystal Mountain
Friday August 30th, 2019 10:47:19 AM
Lil considers the relationship between the monks leadership but tells them any help is welcome.
Bigby considers the term ‘singing our guilt’ and is interested in seeing the skiff.
Grinder likes the idea of a museum and the skiff sounds the most amazing.
Caelwyn nods and wants to see what they have to offer.
Sol admits to being a beginning wizard and offers o clean the monks which they both accept.

Both Attius and Flitch perk up after having the grime magicked away. Neither looks like they are up for a long hike but being clean always helps. Flitch even thanks Sol before turning to the ledgers that have been brought forth.

Attius motions for the group to follow though a set of double doors on the side of the room. He pulls a key ring from around his neck and release three different lock to get the doors open. As they swing open you can see that the long but skinny room, forty feet by 15 feet, is lit with Everburning Toches and contains several displays.

“This is, um, this is really the last of the artifacts we have from the second age. The skiff, well we will.. um… get tot that. The artifacts have history to them and are of, um, great value…. Well at least to us they, aaah, are of great value.”

A large tapestry is hung across from where you enter, it depicts a beautiful druid tree with a strange looking stag next to it. Below the tapestry on a small plinth is a syckle, it looks quite old but of good quality. Attius points to it and smiles he does not stutter or stammer as he speaks of the syckle.

“At one time this syckle was enchanted. It had a property that would bend the Sargrass away from you as you walked though it making travel for the bearer easy. When, to our great shame, the Saragrass left so did its power but the power did not return with the grass.” this was a prepared speech clearly “So, um, not as much use now. Still its, um, our, ahhh history. “

He continues on and passes several more tapestries depicting druid trees as well as the figure that was carved into the outer door. In front of each tapestry is an item on a plinth but he does not stop to describe each one in turn. You pass; large stone ball, a coiled piece of chain, a child’s doll that may be made of Sargrass, two pieces of crystal that are cracked, a broken sword and, an ancient closed book.

At the end of the hall sits a very old skiff. The metal has a layer of rust and the druidwood is clearly aged, like the boards on a barn after many years. The skiff is roughly fifteen feet long, filling the hall completely, and six feet wide. It would appear to seat three but there is no obvious means of propulsion nor is there a ready location to attach a harness.

Attius points “So, um, not many see this really. It, well, it’s the skiff we talked, er, mentioned. A skiff like this will float on the sargrass, quite the, um, marvel really.”

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Saturday August 31st, 2019 2:15:57 PM
Grindar is left speechless by the different artifacts, though he wonders about the ones that Attius doesn't share about. Finally when they get to the skiff he whistles through his tusks and says, "That thing is amazing, not big enough for our need for sure, but amazing none the less!" He then adds, "Do you have any idea how we can build and/or obtain one for ourselves?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Saturday August 31st, 2019 9:17:47 PM
'Lil elbows Grindar. "Come on Grindar, we'll just have to get cozy. I'd much rather sit on your lap for a few hours than tromp through more grass. Still, would be nice to have a bigger boat."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Sunday September 1st, 2019 10:57:15 AM
"Idk, Feels like there's enough space." Bigby spreads his arms out to measure the skiff.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday September 2nd, 2019 12:52:15 PM
Caelwyn considers the skiff. Even if the monks were willing to give it to them, it may not be large enough. "If we could find the wood to build one...is there a ready supply of it anywhere to be found? We could cultivate it and ensure a steady supply..."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Monday September 2nd, 2019 6:00:02 PM
Sol has his journal/notebook out and is furiously scribbling down notes on everything that they are shown, he doesn't speak so he can listen and make notes as fast as possible.

When he sees the boat, he doesn't appear awed at all, he just tilts his head and starts writing down approximate measurements, and tries to figure out a rough volume.

After doing his calculations he speaks for the first time in a while, coughing to get his voice back from disuse.

"I agree with Grindar I do not believe this boat would be large enough to safely support all of us. I do not believe that we could have it however, and if they had a supply of druid wood surely they would have used it by now? Unless there is some beyond your reach?" He asks the last questions to the monks.

GM Steve -- We'll just have to get cozy.
Monday September 2nd, 2019 7:56:06 PM
Grindar is awed by the artifacts, especially the skiff. "That thing is amazing, not big enough for our need for sure, but amazing none the less! Do you have any idea how we can build and/or obtain one for ourselves?"

'Lil elbows Grindar. "Come on Grindar, we'll just have to get cozy. I'd much rather sit on your lap for a few hours than tromp through more grass. Still, would be nice to have a bigger boat."

Bigby spreads his arms out to measure the skiff. "Idk, Feels like there's enough space."

Caelwyn considers the skiff. Even if the monks were willing to give it to them, it may not be large enough. "If we could find the wood to build one...is there a ready supply of it anywhere to be found? We could cultivate it and ensure a steady supply..."

Sol furiously scribbles down notes on everything that they are shown. When he sees the boat, he starts writing down approximate measurements, and tries to figure out a rough volume. After doing his calculations he speaks. "I agree with Grindar I do not believe this boat would be large enough to safely support all of us. I do not believe that we could have it however, and if they had a supply of druid wood surely they would have used it by now? Unless there is some beyond your reach?"

"You are correct," says Attius, "It requires druid wood to build such a craft, and druid wood requires a druid tree. We have heard of no old groves returning with the Sargrass, and groves in the process of being established would not take kindly to having their trees harmed."

Flitch adds, "The entire skiff is not made of druid wood. Look here." He points to the features of the skiff he is discussing. "There is a druid wood frame, but the hull of the skiff if woven from grass. Think about how much good a few skiffs could do us, nevermind an actual ship!"

Attius hisses at Flitch, "The nearest druid is weeks south of us. It's far too dangerous a journey," before turning his attention back to the group, "We were hoping you could go with the next expedition to Hook City to get more recruits. Having a ship would be great, but really I think it's more practical to build our population right now."

Flitch snorts softly, but Attius either doesn't hear or ignores it. Flitch promptly pursues another thought. "The syckle also required druid wood."

"Oh, yes!" growls Attius. "And without a properly tuned crystal, it takes as much effort to move the syckle as it would take to bend all that grass by hand! We don't have the luxury of resources to spend on your daydreams of how things could be. We have to live in the hear and now."

Sense motive DC-15: Highlight to display spoiler: {This appears to be an argument they have had many times before.}

After a tense moment of silence, Attius adds, "Now, what else is there here that we should show them?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 d20+2=22 ;
Monday September 2nd, 2019 8:42:01 PM
Grindar isn't concerned that the two monk's have been arguing like this for a while, (sense motive 22) but he doesn't want to go to hook city either. finally he says, "I'll go along with my friends, but the truth is, I have no desire to go to hook city, the Sargrass is my home now. Add to that, I'm a warrior, not a recruiter, and I really don't see me being of much value on such a mission. however, going on a journey to find druid wood, is why we're here in the first place".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20=18 ;
Monday September 2nd, 2019 11:23:10 PM
senses that they like to argue. "So they want us to go to hook city, we want druid wood and to rebuild ratterdam. choices choices."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday September 3rd, 2019 10:54:53 AM
"Properly tuned crystal? What does that mean?"

'Lil ain't big on going home, and was more thinkin' about telling people NOT to come since this place seems to kill folks.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=10 ;
Tuesday September 3rd, 2019 5:38:36 PM
Sol listens to the arguments and nods.

"I see... that does seem like a distance to go, but it may be worth it if druid wood is as miraculous as it appears to be. The wood would help us rebuild Rattledam more easily, but returning to Hook City could help us get other supplies that may be useful... I would lean towards getting more druid wood however as I feel that doing so would allow us to make this place safe enough for more supplies to be sent to us as needed."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday September 3rd, 2019 9:05:19 PM
Caelwyn thinks the monks may have misunderstood their purpose here. "Forgive us, brothers, but we have a mission which we must attend to. We have been hired to rebuild a settlement here in the Sargrass, and there are people back in Old Rattledam who are counting on us. We have already been away too long. It is simply a question now" he turns to his comrades "of whether we venture to find the druid wood, or seek another alternative for transport around the Sargrass.

GM Steve -- I'm a warrior, not a recruiter.
Tuesday September 3rd, 2019 9:14:26 PM

Bigby doesn't offer a strong opinion on what to do. "So they want us to go to Hook City, we want druid wood and to rebuild Rattledam. Choices, choices."

Grindar doesn't want to go back to Hook City. "I'll go along with my friends, but the truth is, I have no desire to go to Hook City, the Sargrass is my home now. Going on a journey to find druid wood is why we're here in the first place."

Caelwyn thinks the monks may have misunderstood their purpose here. "Forgive us, brothers, but we been hired to rebuild a settlement here in the Sargrass, and there are people back in Old Rattledam who are counting on us."

'Lil doesn't want to go back to Hook City, but picks up on something Attius said. "Properly tuned crystal? What does that mean?"

Sol focuses on finding druid wood. "That does seem like a distance to go, but it may be worth it if druid wood is as miraculous as it appears to be."

.
Flitch is happy to argue in favor of finding druid wood, and tells Attius there's no good to come of sending people with a recruiting expedition who don't want to recruit. Attius, of course, disagrees, "They are better suited to protect an expedition than most people here."

"As for tuning a crystal," Flitch says, ignoring Attius, "with the proper songs, the most skilled among us are able to make useful items from the crystals. That's one reason why some of us are eager to find more of the ancient songs. Many of the songs were lost during the long wait, you know. We write new ones, but those are to save our history. They aren't the ones that the crystal singers use. The ancient songs are probably what we need the most."

"Bah. Food and stone are more important, and you know it. We'll find the songs once we have a population that can support expeditions to do so," Attius counters. "Although I would love to hear the songs of our ancestors."

As if that admission on Attius' part were a sign of weakness, Flitch pounces, "Well, since they're going to look for druid wood anyway, I expect we should help -- to give them the best chance of success. And to share in that success."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday September 4th, 2019 11:20:26 AM
Obviously this was a fight the two of them weren't gonna work out by themselves. She turns to her friends.

"So, get more people, or go adventurin' for druid wood and songs?" She thinks, then sighs. "I hate ta say it, but bringing more able-bodied folks and supplies would probably be the smart choice, yea? I'd much rather go quest for cool stuff, but one bad day could wipe all the people off this part of the world, ya know? Maybe we should think about baby-sittin' folk for a while."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday September 4th, 2019 12:13:19 PM
"hook city then?" Seems the journey is not always straightforward. Many turns on the way.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Wednesday September 4th, 2019 6:24:00 PM
Sol shrugs, it seems awkward like he's not used to it or something.

"Well we can do that, though we did not leave Hook City too long ago. We also do not have the infrastructure to support any more people, at least as far as I can see. We would be bringing more mouths to feed, but with no way of doing so. However, I do not pretend to be an expert on things of this nature, so I am happy to defer to others."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Wednesday September 4th, 2019 8:36:02 PM
Grindar says to his friends, "Well I'm not from Hook City, but if you all think that is the way to go, so be it, but I tend to agree with Sol, and besides that, without a viable means of transportation, we are really limited in how fast and how big we can grow. So I suggest we go after the Druid Wood and get that aspect of our infrastructure settled first, then worry about recruiting. Besides what are we going to tell people, come live in a town that doesn't exist yet and try not to get killed by the inhabitants while you're at it?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday September 4th, 2019 10:32:59 PM
Caelwyn votes with Sol and Grindar. "We must make more progress here, helping to create an inhabitable environment, before we bring more settlers, even if they do come with supplies."

GM Steve -- If you all think that is the way to go, so be it. But. . .
Wednesday September 4th, 2019 11:18:44 PM
'Lil realizes the group is going to have to help Attius and Flitch reach the right decision. "So, get more people, or go adventurin' for druid wood and songs? I hate ta say it, but bringing more able-bodied folks and supplies would probably be the smart choice, yea? I'd much rather go quest for cool stuff, but one bad day could wipe all the people off this part of the world, ya know? Maybe we should think about baby-sittin' folk for a while."

Bigby seems resigned to Attius' request. "Hook City, then?"

Flitch, keep his expression schooled until Attius looks away, then raises his eyebrows at you and gestures. Sense motive DC-10 Highlight to display spoiler: {It's as if he's saying, I'm arguing for what you want, why are you undercutting me?}

Sol shrugs, but points out some problems with growing the area too fast. "We also do not have the infrastructure to support any more people, at least as far as I can see. We would be bringing more mouths to feed, but with no way of doing so. However, I do not pretend to be an expert on things of this nature, so I am happy to defer to others."

Grindar expands on Sol's arguments. "Well I'm not from Hook City, but if you all think that is the way to go, so be it, but I tend to agree with Sol, and besides that, without a viable means of transportation, we are really limited in how fast and how big we can grow. So I suggest we go after the Druid Wood and get that aspect of our infrastructure settled first, then worry about recruiting. Besides what are we going to tell people, come live in a town that doesn't exist yet and try not to get killed by the inhabitants while you're at it?"

Caelwyn Caelwyn votes with Sol and Grindar. "We must make more progress here, helping to create an inhabitable environment, before we bring more settlers, even if they do come with supplies."

Attius takes in what you've said, then turns to 'Lil. "You understand, though."

"It's their decision," Flitch says to Attius. "Remember how the long wait was forced on us. You're not going to try to force your will on anyone are you?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday September 5th, 2019 10:02:06 AM
"Nah guys, you've got it all wrong. You don't build a city, then invite people to live there. You get a bunch'a people who want to build a city together and they build it. We can keep trade goin' with Hook City for food and supplies and whatnot. There are enough rich folk there who're interested in this place to make that happen.

How're we supposed to make Rattledam a place where a bunch'a people can live without having a bunch'a people to do the work?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 5th, 2019 1:07:34 PM
Bigby hears Grindars argument and shakes head positively, then hears 'Lils argument and shakes head positively. Not knowing the answer, he scratches his head. "what are we to do then?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Thursday September 5th, 2019 1:08:33 PM
“I understand what you are saying Lil”, Grindar begins, “But my concern is how are we supposed to transport the people and supplies across the Sargrass? We had one heck of a time getting to Rattledam, from the coast, and we are adventurers, how are the average Joes of the Wold going to fair? The last thing I want to see is more innocent carnage!”

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday September 5th, 2019 2:29:43 PM
"We can solve those problems, dude. We can't solve the problem of making this place a place without people and supply lines."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 5th, 2019 4:18:07 PM
Bigby nods positively to Grindars ideas and then looks over to nod positively to 'Lil's ideas. "shall we flip a piggie for it? snout or tails?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=9 ;
Thursday September 5th, 2019 6:03:09 PM
Sol spends a few moments in thought.

"I do see your point Lil, but also we already have people invested in making a home here. If I knew for certain we would return to Hook City and come back with a few dozen workers and guards and farmers to support ourselves and them, I would agree. However, the guards and settlers we have I suspect are all we are going to get. Any time we spend getting to and from Hook City may be wasted if we cannot get more settlers. All the while we leave Rattledam with less defence and less ability to sustain itself. We need some level of infrastructure here before we can bring more people into the city."

He looks at Lil pleadingly.

"I agree with what you say, but remember how few came the first time? Do you really think you will be able to recruit more than the Lord who already recruited us?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday September 5th, 2019 8:42:54 PM
Caelwyn is unmoved by Lil's argument.

"I see what you are saying, certainly, and we will want to go back to Hook City in the near future to recruit more and gather supplies. But the journey here killed most of those who came - between hostile elves, monsters, and everything else, we would be lucky to make it back alive to Hook City right now. We must make some efforts to establish Rattledam more securely before we think about a return trip, and the druidwood might be our best chance to make all of this work..."

GM Steve -- How are we supposed to transport the people and supplies across the Sargrass?
Thursday September 5th, 2019 10:31:59 PM
'Lil argues for helping recruit. "Nah guys, you've got it all wrong. You don't build a city, then invite people to live there. You get a bunch'a people who want to build a city together and they build it. We can keep trade goin' with Hook City for food and supplies and whatnot. There are enough rich folk there who're interested in this place to make that happen. How're we supposed to make Rattledam a place where a bunch'a people can live without having a bunch'a people to do the work?" . . . "We can solve those problems, dude. We can't solve the problem of making this place a place without people and supply lines."

Bigby agrees with Grindar's arguments and with 'Lil's arguments. Not knowing the answer, he scratches his head.

Grindar, argues for improving transportation. "My concern is how are we supposed to transport the people and supplies across the Sargrass? We had one heck of a time getting to Rattledam, from the coast, and we are adventurers, how are the average Joes of the Wold going to fair? The last thing I want to see is more innocent carnage!”

Sol spends a few moments in thought. "I do see your point Lil, but also we already have people invested in making a home here. If I knew for certain we would return to Hook City and come back with a few dozen workers and guards and farmers to support ourselves and them, I would agree. . . "I agree with what you say, but remember how few came the first time? Do you really think you will be able to recruit more than the Lord who already recruited us?" he pleads.

Caelwyn is unmoved by Lil's argument. "I see what you are saying, certainly, and we will want to go back to Hook City in the near future to recruit more and gather supplies. But the journey here killed most of those who came -- between hostile elves, monsters, and everything else, we would be lucky to make it back alive to Hook City right now. We must make some efforts to establish Rattledam more securely before we think about a return trip, and the druidwood might be our best chance to make all of this work..."

.
Attius and Flitch ignore the five of you for the moment, glaring at each other. Sense motive DC-10: Highlight to display spoiler: {The last thing Flitch said was clearly going to far -- not only did it upset Attius, but Flitch seems to have upset himself as soon as he realized what he had said.}

Attius stalks off. After a quick, "Don't touch anything until I'm back," Flitch follows him. You are left alone for the moment.

Know Local DC-19: Highlight to display spoiler: {A number of monks killed themselves in "the long wait" that was forced upon them.}

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday September 6th, 2019 10:19:52 AM
'Lil looks down her nose at her assembled friends, then shrugs. "All right, geniuses, what's your plan?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday September 6th, 2019 4:10:10 PM
Bigby doesn't like it when the humans fight, and the half orc too. "what do you mean force our will on someone?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 d20-2=7 ;
Friday September 6th, 2019 5:25:31 PM
Grindar realizes that the party just had their first argument, and he feels a little out of sorts for a moment, until he remembers that all healthy families have disagreements every once in a while. He make a point to explain why he feels the way he does, and apologize for being so stubborn on the issue, "Thank you for being willing to at least listen to our side Lil, and I'm sorry for being so stubborn on the issue, but you see, I came here to be a protector, and nothing means more to me then protecting other. When I see the innocent harmed, I take it personal, I feel as I failed to protect that person, and it crushes me inside. I'm not naive, I know that I can't save everyone, but I got to do my best. So many people were already lost for no good reason just trying to get to Rattledam, and even more have perished trying to get to our current location. We need a better and safer way to ferry the inhabitants, current and future, as well as supplies, I want nothing more than to see Rattledam and the rest of the Sargrass prosper, and grow, I just need to know we did all we could to make it a safe reality. as far as what to do now, I would say our next step would be to wait for our hosts to return, so we can learn the right direction to travel, and get the druidwood we need.".

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=8 ;
Friday September 6th, 2019 6:40:23 PM
Sol places a gentle hand on Lil's shoulder.

"Once we have the druid wood, our next priority will be bringing in more settlers, do not worry."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday September 6th, 2019 10:31:52 PM
"I agree...even moving about this land causes injury from the grasses alone. We need to find out where we can get druidwood, and how, so we can make transport easier and begin to build our settlement more effectively. And we must take care of those settlers who are already here, as Grindar has said."

Caelwyn is glad they have reached some kind of agreement.

GM Steve -- I want nothing more than to see Rattledam and the rest of the Sargrass prosper
Friday September 6th, 2019 10:42:34 PM
'Lil looks down her nose at her assembled friends, then shrugs. "All right, geniuses, what's your plan?"

Bigby doesn't like it when the humans fight, and the half orc too.

Grindar realizes that the party just had their first argument. He makes a point to explain why he feels the way he does, and apologize for being so stubborn on the issue, "Thank you for being willing to at least listen to our side Lil, and I'm sorry for being so stubborn on the issue. . . I would say our next step would be to wait for our hosts to return, so we can learn the right direction to travel, and get the druidwood we need."

Sol places a gentle hand on Lil's shoulder. "Once we have the druid wood, our next priority will be bringing in more settlers, do not worry."

Caelwyn is glad they have reached some kind of agreement. "I agree...even moving about this land causes injury from the grasses alone. We need to find out where we can get druidwood, and how, so we can make transport easier and begin to build our settlement more effectively."

.
The group has several minutes to look around. In fact, unless they are happy to examine the artifacts, they may begin to feel uncomfortable being left there before Flitch gets back. But he does return after a while. "Sorry about that. Sometimes Attius and I get a little overheated. So, have you made a decision?" He listens to your explanation of what you would like to do next. "And what do you want us to do to help?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Sunday September 8th, 2019 11:39:52 AM
"Well Sirs, I guess what we need most is two things: first to be sent in the right direction, and second, any advice you could give", Grindar begins and then quickly adds "Oh, and an approximate amount of the druid wood needed would be helpful as well I guess".

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Sunday September 8th, 2019 8:21:26 PM
"Yes...we need to know what we are getting into before we go wandering off into these wild lands again. Any knowledge would be helpful. And we need to gather supplies for our journey as well..."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Sunday September 8th, 2019 10:51:48 PM
Bigby nods in agreement. "any advice on the druidwood would be helpful." hmmm...how much druid wood could a druid get would he get druid wood...ah nevermind

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Sunday September 8th, 2019 11:50:28 PM
'Lil looks down at Sol's hand on her shoulder, then at the rest of her friends. She smiles.

"Dudes, I'm not angry. Breathe a bit." She takes her own advice and breathes deep before continuing.

"You folks think gettin' druidwood is the best way forward, that's cool. I don't think yer right, but you're not so wrong I can't go along and keep my guys alive." She turns to Sol. "Oh, and if I ever really am angry at ya, I recommend not touching me." She smiles, but it's a bit toothier than her usual smile.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Monday September 9th, 2019 3:53:58 PM
Sol chuckles at Lil.

"I will try to remember that Lil, thank you for the warning. I am glad we could come to an agreement."

GM Steve -- How much druid wood could a druid get would he get druid wood?
Monday September 9th, 2019 10:29:11 PM
Grindar: "Well Sirs, I guess what we need most is two things: first to be sent in the right direction, and second, any advice you could give. Oh, and an approximate amount of the druid wood needed would be helpful as well I guess".

Caelwyn: [b]"Yes...we need to know what we are getting into before we go wandering off into these wild lands again. Any knowledge would be helpful. And we need to gather supplies for our journey as well..."

Bigby: "Any advice on the druidwood would be helpful."

'Lil: "Dudes, I'm not angry. Breathe a bit. You folks think gettin' druidwood is the best way forward, that's cool. I don't think yer right, but you're not so wrong I can't go along and keep my guys alive."

Sol: "I will try to remember that Lil, thank you for the warning. I am glad we could come to an agreement."

.
Flitch listens to you decide to go look for druid wood, apparently pleased with your decision. "Directions and supplies. Of course we can give you directions. I'm afraid you'll need to figure out what supplies you want. You have travelled through the grass before -- you should have some idea what to expect. As for the amount of druid wood needed. . . You can figure out for yourself how much the skiff uses. Only the frame is druid wood, the rest is woven grasses. Larger vessels would need more wood, of course. What size boat are you thinking of building? I assume you would not be crafting the boat yourselves."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday September 9th, 2019 10:58:55 PM
"I confess we haven't thought much about that...we could probably find someone to help craft the boat for us, I don't think we have the skill. Good to know that we only need wood for the frames..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Tuesday September 10th, 2019 5:29:23 AM
"Well" Grindar begins, "As Caelwyn said, we will probably need assistance with the build, but as far as size, I figure one that is large enough to hold 8 or 9 medium sized people, with room for animal friends".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday September 10th, 2019 12:40:37 PM
Bigby spreads out arms and starts measureing how many bigby arm spans it takes to build the skiff.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday September 10th, 2019 1:19:54 PM
"I think the right answer is 'all the druid wood we can secure, and that we can carry' right? We really gonna measure it out and leave scraps behind?" It was getting late, and 'Lil really wanted to get some sleep and go adventurin' again.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Tuesday September 10th, 2019 6:53:08 PM
Sol nods.

"I agree with Lil, surely we will just bring back as much as we possibly can? There is no point in leaving any behind."

Beyond the Crystal Mountains

The Museum

GM Steve -- We really gonna measure it out and leave scraps behind?
Tuesday September 10th, 2019 7:58:12 PM
Caelwyn responds to Flitch's comment about who would build the boat and what size it would be. "I confess we haven't thought much about that...we could probably find someone to help craft the boat for us, I don't think we have the skill. Good to know that we only need wood for the frames..."

Grindar begins, "As Caelwyn said, we will probably need assistance with the build, but as far as size, I figure one that is large enough to hold 8 or 9 medium sized people, with room for animal friends".

Bigby spreads out arms and starts measureing how many bigby arm spans it takes to build the skiff.

'Lil, wanting to get some sleep and go adventurin' again, takes a practical approach. "I think the right answer is 'all the druid wood we can secure, and that we can carry' right? We really gonna measure it out and leave scraps behind?"

Sol nods. "I agree with Lil, surely we will just bring back as much as we possibly can? There is no point in leaving any behind."

.
If you are done looking through the Stone Temple, Flitch says, "Well, I guess you'd best start preparing for your journey." As you are leaving, he asks you to come with him back to his office. "You'll need directions on what you're looking for. Give me time to gather that information -- say, day after tomorrow. Meanwhile, I best give you a letter of recommendation. Won't do a whole lot for you, but it may keep prices down." Once you are at this office, he writes a hasty note saying that you are preparing for a journey of some importance to the community, and asking the merchants to help you as they are able. After he applies his seal, he hands it to Sol. "If you think of any other questions for me, you are also welcome to return tomorrow, of course."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Wednesday September 11th, 2019 5:40:07 AM
Thank you Flitch, your assistance is very welcome. As they leave he says to his friends, I'm going to take my share of the 5000 in gems and use it to get Cyrchwr Mawr upgraded in the morning, hopefully it'll be done before we leave.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday September 11th, 2019 11:52:04 AM
Bigby hears 'Lil say that its waste of time measure the skiff and he puts his arms down. He rejoins the group.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday September 11th, 2019 3:12:24 PM
"Bed time, then? Looking this good takes serious beauty sleep, ya know?" She links elbows with Grindar and Sol, then ushers everyone out of the room. She pulls out the rod she took earlier, wonderin' how you bonded with such a thing. Maybe you just slept with it under your pillow? Couldn't hurt. She'd try that...

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Wednesday September 11th, 2019 5:00:15 PM
Sol laughs heartily as Lil links arms with him and guides him out, but he dutifully heads to bed, a broad grin on his face.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday September 11th, 2019 8:50:52 PM
Caelwyn also thanks the monks and heads out, thinking about what they will need to obtain tomorrow before their journey.

GM Steve -- Looking this good takes serious beauty sleep
Wednesday September 11th, 2019 10:57:13 PM
Grindar says, "Thank you Flitch, your assistance is very welcome." As they leave he tells his friends, some of his plans to prepare for the journey.

Bigby hears 'Lil say that its waste of time measure the skiff and he puts his arms down. He rejoins the group.

'Lil says, "Bed time, then? Looking this good takes serious beauty sleep, ya know?" She links elbows with Grindar and Sol, then ushers everyone out of the room, thinking about something else.

Sol laughs heartily as Lil links arms with him and guides him out, but he dutifully heads to bed, a broad grin on his face.

Caelwyn also thanks the monks and heads out, thinking about what they will need to obtain tomorrow before their journey.

.
The night passes uneventfully, and by the next day rumors are already flying. At breakfast Blain starts in, "They say you're going to leave us -- to look for druid wood. Can I come? I can fight, I've been practicing." This earns you a glare from Auntie, before you have any chance to explain yourselves.

You spend the day in preparation. (The letter, it turns out, simply lets you obtain items at standard prices rather than the inflated prices typical here.)

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Thursday September 12th, 2019 5:54:58 AM
"Well my friend", Grindar answers Blain, "I have no doubt of your fighting spirit, but someone needs to stay here and protect your sister, and Auntie. Can I trust you to help me out in this matter, it would set my mind at rest a bit knowing that someone is looking out for them in our absence".

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday September 12th, 2019 12:04:20 PM
'Lil wakes up with a crick in her neck. "This is the lousiest pillow I ever had," she groans as she wakes. She pops her neck a few times and rolls her shoulders, then tosses the pillow across the room.

There's a sleek longspear there. "Oh yea, the rod," she says to no one in particular as she picks it up. She twirls it a few times in her fingers. "Yea, you and I are gonna be friends. What to name you, though?" 'Lil puts a finger to her lips and thinks. "Maya. You look like a Maya. Hey guys! Say hey to Maya. Ain't she pretty!" She puts her new toy away and gets ready for the day.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 12th, 2019 1:41:56 PM
Bigby says "hello Maya." Bigby trusts Grindar to handle the issue with Blain and just adds, "next time Blain...you'll get your turn one day."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Thursday September 12th, 2019 5:24:57 PM
”Maya you say? Grindar responds, ”A good name for a good weapon!”

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday September 12th, 2019 8:39:58 PM
"Excellent...that could come in handy, who knows what else we might encounter out there! Time to make sure we have enough provisions and weapons for our journey. We must be prepared."

GM Steve -- Looking this good takes serious beauty sleep
Thursday September 12th, 2019 11:14:33 PM
Grindar (to Blain): "I have no doubt of your fighting spirit, but someone needs to stay here and protect your sister, and Auntie. Can I trust you to help me out in this matter, it would set my mind at rest a bit knowing that someone is looking out for them in our absence".

'Lil (to her weapon): "Yea, you and I are gonna be friends. What to name you, though? . . . Maya. You look like a Maya. Hey guys! Say hey to Maya. Ain't she pretty!"

Bigby: "Hello Maya . . . next time Blain -- you'll get your turn one day."

Caelwyn: "Excellent...that could come in handy, who knows what else we might encounter out there! Time to make sure we have enough provisions and weapons for our journey. We must be prepared."

.
As hoped, Blain takes his new-found role as a protector of the caravan seriously. Seeing how you've handled this, the merchants of the caravan start offering advice -- You should expect the monks to ask for a share of any wood you find . . . Yes, but don't be afraid to bargain for it. They should do more than point the way and send you off . . . Look for things that will benefit you both . . . Don't ask the monks for things the community can provide, the merchants are rooting for you, too . . . Expect the merchants to want a share of the wood, too . . . Don't trip over each other in negotiations. Discuss things beforehand or pick one of you to speak for the group . . .

.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Friday September 13th, 2019 2:38:40 AM
Sol listens to the advice, and notes it all down in his book, to refer to later, thanking each merchant that he hears. Though he doesn't buy anything, he listens closely to what the merchants have to say.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Friday September 13th, 2019 6:08:17 AM
Grindar hears the advice and thanks the well wishers. he than picks up the party treasure, and says to his friends shall we go sell this stuff? He gets to Auntie's caravan and looks for the wagon that appears to be buying and selling weapons. he then lays the bundle on the table, and says, "We have accumulated these various items, in our travels so far. We have no use for them, would you be willing to take them off our hands? At a reasonable price of course!" He then puts Cyrchwr Mawr on the counter and asks, I'm not sure if it's possible, but can you reforge both ends of this Orc Double Ax upgrading it to masterwork quality? Normally I would just purchase a new one, but this was my fathers ax, and as such it is precious to me".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday September 13th, 2019 11:34:18 AM
Bigby takes it in and waits to go.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday September 13th, 2019 3:55:29 PM
'Lil's ready to go.

*Leaving for vacation today, so low effort post.

GM Steve -- We have accumulated these various items
Friday September 13th, 2019 11:33:37 PM
Sol listens closely to what the merchants say.

Grindar tries to make some trades and upgrade his axe.

Bigby takes it in and waits to go.

'Lil is ready to go.

.
"I'm sorry," one man tells Grindar, "You can't add the masterwork quality to a weapon after it is created; it must be crafted as a masterwork weapon." Grindar is able to make his other trades for an equitable amount.

Other than trading, the group makes a lazy day of it, while preparing to return to the Stone Temple for directions the following day as Flitch had asked.

Ooc: Best I know, you can do any trades in the catacombs or you can do non-magical ones in character. If you intend to do it in character here, you'll need to be more explicit what you have.

Also, Grindar seems to be wounded, but has just had a night's rest and will have at least one more before you leave.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Sunday September 15th, 2019 1:20:56 PM
Thanks anyway" Grindar says to the clerk, "Maybe someday, I'll be able to find a Orc or Half-Orc master craftsman who specializes in Orcish Weapons, and maybe they can make my dream come true, Oh and thanks for taking the items off our hands as well.".

After that he wonders into a place he finds out is a magical shop called the Catacombs, after spending sometime there, he places an order, then heads out to meet up with his friends. He immediately divides the proceeds from the sales evenly with his comrades and says, "While I was there, I discovered this magical store known as the Catacombs. I don't know how I got there, but I'm certain that I wasn't in the Sargrass anymore after I walked through a door that was at the caravan. This shop was amazing, if you can think of it, they have it, for a price. While I was there, I ordered a Masterwork Orc Double Ax. I was thinking about selling Cyrchwr Mawr, but decided to keep him, He is my father's ax after all, and maybe someday I'll be able to find someone with the proper skills to upgrade it, or hang it in a place of honor, if we ever get a place to call home. I just hope the new ax which I'm planning on naming Bwyell (Welsh for ax)arrives before we leave".

OOC... That should put us to our WBL if Ryan's math is correct

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Sunday September 15th, 2019 11:42:35 PM
Caelwyn is interested in purchasing some provisions for the trip and making sure all their equipment is ready to go. Other than that, he is pretty content with the weapons that he has at his disposal.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=21 ;
Monday September 16th, 2019 11:42:20 AM
Bigby decides to go on a hunt while waiting. 21 survival. "any are welcome to hunt with us."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Monday September 16th, 2019 12:08:55 PM
'Lil don't hunt, and she ain't got nothing to buy. She spends some time practicing with Maya, and fashions a setup that lets it be strapped to her back parallel to Ramona.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Monday September 16th, 2019 6:32:24 PM
Sol simply makes notes of everything that he's missed in the last few days because of travels and fighting, and watches what the others do, as he has little enough funds that he dare not use some on things he doesn't definitely need.

GM Steve -- We have accumulated these various items d20=16 ; d100=27 ; d20=6 ; d20=17 ;
Monday September 16th, 2019 11:24:55 PM
Grindar shops at a magical shop called the Catacombs. After spending sometime there, he places an order, then heads out to meet up with his friends. He immediately divides the proceeds from the sales evenly with his comrades and says, "While I was there, I ordered a Masterwork Orc Double Ax. I was thinking about selling Cyrchwr Mawr, but decided to keep him, I just hope the new ax which I'm planning on naming Bwyell arrives before we leave".

Caelwyn is interested in purchasing some provisions for the trip and making sure all their equipment is ready to go. Other than that, he is pretty content with the weapons that he has at his disposal.

Bigby decides to go on a hunt while waiting. "Any are welcome to hunt with us." He gathers enough to feed 6 for a day.

'Lil spends some time practicing with Maya, and fashions a setup that lets it be strapped to her back parallel to Ramona.

Sol simply makes notes of everything that he's missed in the last few days because of travels and fighting, and watches what the others do, as he has little enough funds that he dare not use some on things he doesn't definitely need.

.
The party spend the day making their purchases, practicing, and hunting.

The next day, you return to the temple to talk with the monks and get the directions they promised. Attius and Flitch are there, but so is Edith Culliver. The monks act as if they aren't quite sure what to do with her. She seems aware of their discomfort.

"Do come in. All ready for your trip, or are you planning on an early start tomorrow?" Flitch asks.

Attius says, "Or have you come to your senses? A long trip without a larger group is foolishness."

Edith adds, a bit disdainfully, "What these two are beating around without saying is that in exchange for the information you need, the location of druid wood, they want something from you. So do I, for that matter, but I'm ready to pay a fair price."

.
(OOC: Items purchased at the Catacombs will be available before your departure. If the store isn't being quickly manned, you'll have carried them with you when the exchange goes through..)

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Tuesday September 17th, 2019 6:29:08 AM
When Grindar wakes up, he finds a package at the foot of his bed. He quickly realizes that his order has arrived, so he tears open the packaging to reveal an exquisitely crafted orc double ax. Carved on both blades in elegantly carved Orcish runes is the name of the weapon "Bwyell". Grindar doesn't remember telling the store keep the name he planned on giving the ax, and is amazed that the smiths at the Catacombs some how knew. He picks Bwyell up and twirls her around a few times feeling the amazing balance of the fine craftsmanship. He then heads out to meet up with his friends saying, "Bwyell arrived, isn't she lovely?"

When they arrive at the temple, Grindar shakes his head, thinking to himself, "It's always something", though he keeps his thoughts to himself, and simply asks, "What would you like us to do for you?

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday September 17th, 2019 10:11:45 AM
"Well, out with it," says 'Lil. Ain't nothing wrong with askin' for something if you're willing to pay for it, after all...

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday September 17th, 2019 11:35:36 AM
Bigby totally excited that hes got lunch and holds up the hunt, "snacks for the road trip." He then hears the conversation, nods and points in approval to what 'Lil said.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Tuesday September 17th, 2019 5:57:03 PM
Sol raises an eyebrow at the three assembled, particularly at Attius.

"Let me get this clear in my own mind... you warn us that it is too dangerous to undertake this journey, yet you wish to add more pressure to it by asking us to do something in addition to bringing back some druid wood?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday September 17th, 2019 8:52:12 PM
Caelwyn smiles wryly at the monks. "Protecting your settlement wasn't payment enough, eh? Well, what else do you need?"

GM Steve -- Let me get this clear in my own mind
Tuesday September 17th, 2019 11:56:21 PM
Grindar receives his new ax. "Bwyell arrived, isn't she lovely?" When they arrive at the temple, Grindar shakes his head, though he keeps his thoughts to himself, and simply asks, "What would you like us to do for you?"

'Lil says, "Well, out with it. Ain't nothing wrong with askin' for something if you're willing to pay for it, after all..."

Bigby totally excited that hes got lunch and holds up the hunt, "snacks for the road trip." He then hears the conversation, nods and points in approval to what 'Lil said.

Sol raises an eyebrow at the three assembled, particularly at Attius. "Let me get this clear in my own mind... you warn us that it is too dangerous to undertake this journey, yet you wish to add more pressure to it by asking us to do something in addition to bringing back some druid wood?"

Caelwyn smiles wryly at the monks. "Protecting your settlement wasn't payment enough, eh? Well, what else do you need?"

.
Attius replies to Sol first, "I am still convinced that it would be better for you to bring more settlers first, then mount a reasonably equipped expedition for druid wood. Be that as it may, we have already agreed to help you find the wood. The druids have been settling in the south. The only one we've actually seen is at the foot of the mountains -- just follow them south and you'll find him."

After a moment of silence, Flitch adds, "When you find the druid wood. . . Well, Rattledam is not the only community that would benefit from having it. We would like to share it with you. Contrary to whatever Edith imagines here, though, we are not simply demanding wood in exchange for the information you've been given." He puts a box on the table, about six inches cubed. "This box contains a crystal. It had healing properties, but we have repurposed it to find druid wood. Right now it points into the temple here, where the skiff is. But if you take it from here, as you get closer to a grove it will begin pointing the way for you. So you needn't fear getting lost."

While you are considering what the monks have said, Edith speaks up. "You -- and you, too, Attius and Flitch -- will need more than the wood itself. You need the craftsmen who can turn it into something useful. There are a group of us can help you find the right ones, if we can find a way to work with you and not become competitors."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29
Wednesday September 18th, 2019 5:44:58 AM
Grindar thinks to himself, "Just how much wood are we going to have to haul back?" but says, "Do you have suggestions as to how to haul all this wood back? There are only the five of us, and some of us, though they bring necessary and appreciated skills to the group, aren't really cut out for manual labor",

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday September 18th, 2019 5:50:20 AM
fixed header

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday September 18th, 2019 10:33:28 AM
'Lil elbows Grindar & nods her head at the skiff. "We could use that. Put a bunch'a the wood on it and haul it behind us. Should be easy enough to pull if it floats, especially for a big guy like you."

She frowns. "Course, that gem might not work if we do that. Maybe it'll start picking up the druids anyway since they probably got more wood than this skiff does?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday September 18th, 2019 11:39:49 AM
"perhaps some animals to help haul stuff back?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Wednesday September 18th, 2019 5:55:46 PM
Sol nods.

"Getting a good amount of druid wood back could be difficult, perhaps we can make some sort of cart... or perhaps a sled?"

GM Steve -- Do you have suggestions
Wednesday September 18th, 2019 11:28:52 PM
Grindar thinks to himself, "Just how much wood are we going to have to haul back?" but says, "Do you have suggestions as to how to haul all this wood back?"

'Lil elbows Grindar and nods her head at the skiff. "We could use that. Put a bunch'a the wood on it and haul it behind us. Should be easy enough to pull if it floats, especially for a big guy like you. Course, that gem might not work if we do that. Maybe it'll start picking up the druids anyway since they probably got more wood than this skiff does?"

Bigby suggests, "Perhaps some animals to help haul stuff back?"

Sol nods. "Getting a good amount of druid wood back could be difficult, perhaps we can make some sort of cart... or perhaps a sled?"

.
Attius seems a bit amused. "Surely you realized druid trees are trees. I understand even small ones can be quite heavy, especially while they're still green. I suppose that you may have expected to gather dead limbs from a grove like you would firewood, but you'll still need a lot and you wouldn't be able to build anything large with that. Maybe another skiff."

"Another skiff would be precious," Flitch mumbles to Attius.

"I think that if you can secure more wood than you can carry, you can get help to retrieve it. The creatures of the Sargrass won't have anything to do with it," Edith adds.

"In any case, although it is of the utmost importance, your expedition is also somewhat risky. The skiff is too valuable for us to lose. Besides, you're not even sure how you'd move it, and it wouldn't seat you all." Flitch says, "As to the crystal -- well, I'm sure a large amount of wood would attract it more, but a near amount of wood would attract it more, too. I have no idea what taking the skiff would do to its effectiveness."

Attius stands up. "Debate if you'd like. Things changed when the Sargrass returned. The long wait hit the druids as hard as it hit us, and I don't know what you should expect to find." He gives Flitch a look and a nod, then leaves unhurriedly.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday September 19th, 2019 5:55:47 AM
Grindar asks, "So for clarification, If we find a source of druid wood, you guys will assist in the hauling?" he considers adding, "If your willing to haul it why don't you help us find it as well?" but he keeps that to himself. Grindar feels as though he and his friends are being taken advantage of, but since they have a vested interest in obtaining druid wood for themselves, he is willing to ignore it for the moment.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 19th, 2019 10:29:15 AM
"I suppose fate would like us to go out there and find out how to bring it back. So be it. Let's just get on our way then."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday September 19th, 2019 2:26:04 PM
"Yeeeeah, I don't think bringing a bunch'a ox or whatever hauls stuff in this place on a scouting trip like this is a good idea. Let's worry 'bout securing the wood, then leave transportation to the professionals."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Thursday September 19th, 2019 7:07:32 PM
Sol nods at Lil's words.

"I agree. We should try to see how much we can secure, then send word to request additional help to return with it?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday September 19th, 2019 9:46:30 PM
Caelwyn agrees with Lil as well. "We need to focus on finding it first, and we should be able to figure out transportation when the time comes. Who knows what we will find as we go looking for it. If there is enough to share, I see no problems with this arrangement..."

GM Steve -- You guys will assist in the hauling?
Thursday September 19th, 2019 11:53:04 PM
Grindar feels as though he and his friends are being taken advantage of, but since they have a vested interest in obtaining druid wood for themselves, he is willing to ignore it for the moment.

Bigby says, "I suppose fate would like us to go out there and find out how to bring it back. So be it. Let's just get on our way then."

'Lil seems to agree with what she's heard, "Yeeeeah, I don't think bringing a bunch'a ox or whatever hauls stuff in this place on a scouting trip like this is a good idea. Let's worry 'bout securing the wood, then leave transportation to the professionals."

Sol nods at Lil's words. "I agree. We should try to see how much we can secure, then send word to request additional help to return with it?"

Caelwyn agrees with Lil as well. "Who knows what we will find as we go looking for it. If there is enough to share, I see no problems with this arrangement..."

.
If the arrangements seem satisfactory, one of you takes the box with the wood-seeking crystal inside it. Flitch makes you repeat back the directions Attius gave -- south along the foot of the mountains five or six score miles. That could be many days through the grasses. After a couple of days the crystal should point the way.

"Are thre any other arrangements you feel are in order?" Flitch asks.

"Are you heading out right away, or starting in the morning? If you stay the night, come on over to Culliver's and I'll see you get a good meal." Edith offers.

Perception DC-20 Highlight to display spoiler: {There appears to have been something written on the box with the crystal, now mostly rubbed off.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=14 ;
Friday September 20th, 2019 5:35:10 AM
Grindar doesn't notice the writing on the box, as he turns to his friends and says, "I ready to go now if you guys are, but making an early start after a good nights sleep before heading back into the death trap known as the Sargrass Plains is probably a good idea". Grindar actually would like to get going. The last few days have been a much need reprieve, but the people of Rattledam are counting on them, and the longer they are away, the more he worries for their safety.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=24 ;
Friday September 20th, 2019 1:24:50 PM
perception 24. "strange, the writing on the box has been rubbed off. Oh well, no need for concern about that I'm sure. Off we are or, sleep then off."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=10 ;
Friday September 20th, 2019 1:39:34 PM
'Lil didn't notice the box, but looks at it when Bigby speaks up. "Them wolf-eyes of yours are pretty good, dude."

She tries to figure out if it's just worn down with age and use, or if someone deliberately rubbed it off.

Either way, she's down with getting a good meal. Plus, Edith might have work. Nothin' wrong with a little side quest, right? Adventurers gotta eat (and buy neat toys).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=16 ;
Friday September 20th, 2019 5:51:51 PM
Sol nods, apparently not noticing the box, but hearing Bigby talk about it.

"I would vote for one good nights rest before we go. I am anxious to get going, but feel that it may be unwise to head out without being completely rested."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20=11 ;
Saturday September 21st, 2019 12:34:19 AM
"I agree, let's sleep for the night and get a solid start in the morning. We need to be prepared!"

Caelwyn doesn't notice anything strange about the box or anything else.

To the Druid's Grove

GM Steve -- Sleep, then off
Saturday September 21st, 2019 10:52:23 PM
Grindar turns to his friends and says, "I ready to go now if you guys are, but making an early start after a good nights sleep before heading back into the death trap known as the Sargrass Plains is probably a good idea."

Bigby says, "Strange, the writing on the box has been rubbed off. Oh well, no need for concern about that I'm sure. Off we are or, sleep then off."

'Lil didn't notice the box, but looks at it when Bigby speaks up. She tries to figure out if it's just worn down with age and use, or if someone deliberately rubbed it off. Either way, she's down with getting a good meal.

Sol nods, apparently not noticing the box, but hearing Bigby talk about it. "I would vote for one good nights rest before we go. I am anxious to get going, but feel that it may be unwise to head out without being completely rested."

Caelwyn concurs with the general mood. "I agree, let's sleep for the night and get a solid start in the morning. We need to be prepared!"

.
'Lil only, perception DC-15: Highlight to display spoiler: {The writing on the box has been rubbed off.} DC-20: Highlight to display spoiler: {There was a word, most likely "sananobis".}

The group stays for a final evening, spending it as local celebrities. Word of your mission has gotten out, and it seems like everyone here who has had anything to do with you and half of those who haven't want to wish you well. Enjoying the hospitality at Culliver's requires dealing with a crowd, even though Edith has made your table as private as the layout allows. You survive, of course, but not without a request or two that Grindar sing.

Waking early the next morning seems to be the best way to get out of town. People kept you from turning in as early as you would have liked, but a firm explanation that they were disturbing your much-needed rest got them to leave you alone. It didn't stop them from continuing the party, of course, but that wasn't near your quarters. Still, you were up early and out of town before many people were about. . . Which meant you only had to deal with Auntie handing you something light but tasty on the way. She didn't say what ihe meat was.

The grass did not become easier to travel through while you were biding time with the monks. As before, your going is slow. It doesn't seem to matter much whether you stay on the plains in the grass or up along the mountainside where the plants are easier to deal with but the terrain is more difficult. This is going to be a slow trip.

You keep going, sometimes in the grass and sometimes taking a break from it, heading roughly south. After two and a half days, the crystal still points back the way you came. You're on a hillside where the grasses are shorter, coming to the crest. And when you reach the top you notice that there is something large and colorful down the way you're headed and off to the left -- towards the grasses. It's a good hundred and fifty yards away, glinting in the sunlight.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday September 23rd, 2019 5:26:32 AM
Grindar, upon seeing the colorful shiny thing, asks his friends, "What might that be, should I try to sneak down there and get a closer look?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday September 23rd, 2019 11:44:52 AM
"sounds good, but last time that happened I was covered in ants. Be careful."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=22 ;
Monday September 23rd, 2019 12:06:12 PM
'Lil's eyes peer at the box. "Sananobis," she says quietly. "Hey!" she says louder. "Anyone know what or who the heck a sananobis is?" She wonders if it's a trigger word for the box. She watches for any reaction.

She has a good time, yessir.

The next day, she wonders out loud why they didn't bring a scythe to cut their way through all this grass. "Large, colorful, AND shiny. Yea, that's probably a trap." She elbows Grindar and smiles. "Go trigger it so we can get this over with, eh?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=5 ;
Monday September 23rd, 2019 5:06:26 PM
Sol chuckles.

"Well I believe it would be a good idea to figure out what it does before we decide to go barrelling straight into it."

He looks to his Familiar.

"Corbin, can you take a look for us and let us know what you see?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday September 23rd, 2019 9:26:15 PM
Caelwyn smiles. He too remembers Bigby and the ants. "Tell Corbin to be careful, who knows what that might be."

He strings his longbow and fits an arrow to the string.

GM Steve -- Should I try to sneak down there and get a closer look?
Monday September 23rd, 2019 11:55:28 PM
Grindar, upon seeing the colorful shiny thing, asks his friends if he should try to sneak down there and get a closer look.

Bigby encourages Grindar to do so, but warns him to be careful.

'Lil is interrupted from speculating about the box they received, or the possibility cutting the grass, to give her considered opinion that this is probably a trap.

Sol suggests figuring out what it is before tackling it head on. "Corbin, can you take a look for us and let us know what you see?"

Caelwyn smiles. He, too, remembers Bigby and the ants as he prepares his bow.

.
Corbin flies over the area, but does not seem especially interested or alarmed by anything there. (A wizard's empathic link allows him to communicate empathically with the familiar, not see through its eyes. Only general emotions can be shared.)

As Corbin returns, you notice that the shiny thing has not moved or changed. From the distance, it must be large. But it is partially hidden by grass, 450 feet away.

Sol only: Highlight to display spoiler: {I do not find a language listed for Corbin, although a raven familiar can speak a language. After he lands, Corbin croaks out what Sol understands to be the word "bug," although the others do not seem to understand the croak.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday September 24th, 2019 5:43:10 AM
Grindar decides to wait for Corbin to return, and Sol to report the findings before attempting to sneak down to investigate.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday September 24th, 2019 11:22:13 AM
Bigby too awaits Corbins information from his investigation of the shiny shiny thing ahead of them.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday September 24th, 2019 12:26:34 PM
"Well dude," 'Lil starts. "What'd the bird see? We in trouble?" Her eyes sparkle a bit at the idea of trouble...

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Tuesday September 24th, 2019 5:33:40 PM
((OoC: Sorry, yeah Corbin speaks Common, will update on my sheet))

Sol gives a confused look at his familiar.

"He said the word 'bug'. I assume he means there are bugs there, and after our last run in with them, I think it may be wise to avoid that area altogether."

GM Steve -- Her eyes sparkle a bit at the idea of trouble
Tuesday September 24th, 2019 11:15:57 PM
Grindar decides to wait for Corbin to return, and Sol to report the findings before attempting to sneak down to investigate.

Bigby too awaits Corbins information from his investigation of the shiny shiny thing ahead of them.

'Lil starts. "What'd the bird see? We in trouble?"

Sol gives a confused look at his familiar. "He said the word 'bug'. I assume he means there are bugs there, and after our last run in with them, I think it may be wise to avoid that area altogether."

Caelwyn stands ready with his bow.

.
The group's previous path will take them closer to the shiny thing unless they decide to avoid it entirely. On the other hand, it will not take them all the way to it unless they decide to investigate.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday September 24th, 2019 11:33:23 PM
Caelwyn frowns. "Can he tell us anything else about what the object is? I don't want to risk our lives for nothing, but I do wonder what that might be..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=25 ;
Wednesday September 25th, 2019 5:43:11 AM
Grindar thinks for a moment, then says, "Well, not a fan of bugs, but it might be worth an investigation". He removes his breastplate, and asks Sol to cast mage armor on him, then attempts to steathfully sneak down to get a better look. (Stealth 25)

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday September 25th, 2019 12:14:38 PM
"Always sneakin'," 'Lil murmurs. She unstraps Maya and follows several yards behind Grindar, ready to charge in if he gets 'imself in trouble.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday September 25th, 2019 2:24:42 PM
Bigby awaits. He whispers, "be careful Grindar. Drop and roll if its ants."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Wednesday September 25th, 2019 7:19:53 PM
Sol does as Grindar asks.

"Just be careful, we do not wish to ride to your rescue if we can avoid it! Corbin, go with him, and keep an eye out. Though what did you mean by 'bug'?"

GM Steve -- Always sneakin' d20=19 ;
Wednesday September 25th, 2019 8:03:09 PM
Caelwyn frowns. "Can he tell us anything else about what the object is? I don't want to risk our lives for nothing, but I do wonder what that might be..."

Grindar thinks for a moment. He removes his breastplate, and asks Sol to cast mage armor on him, then attempts to steathfully sneak down to get a better look.

'Lil unstraps Maya and follows several yards behind Grindar, ready to charge in if he gets 'imself in trouble.

Bigby awaits. He whispers, "Be careful Grindar. Drop and roll if its ants."

Sol casts the spell Grindar requests. "Just be careful, we do not wish to ride to your rescue if we can avoid it! Corbin, go with him, and keep an eye out. Though what did you mean by 'bug'?"

.
While Bigby, Caelwyn, and Sol wait, Grindar sneaks up on whatever it is over there. 'Lil follows, about a round behind in this rough terrain, and Corbin flies overhead.

Grindar and 'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {As you get closer, the scale of the scene becomes clearer to you. At a distance of 450', sneaking up on the shiny thing will take many rounds -- assuming that you approach carefully but at normal movement for the first minute, you get close enough to make out that it is a huge beetle, about 10' long and half hidden in the weeds. The beetle's carapace is colorful and reflective, primarily in greens and golds. There is something odd about the way it is positioned, and it has not moved that you can see in the time you have spent approaching it.}

Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {OOC, you can save the 25 Stealth roll and use it when you feel you are cloase enough to need it if you want. Right now you would still have plenty of time to react.}

Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {Corbin remains unperturbed the whole time.}

After about a minute, Grindar and 'Lil are 150' from the thing.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday September 25th, 2019 8:58:09 PM
Caelwyn, with an arrow on the string, approaches as well, but only to within longbow range. He tries to stay under cover and not make himself too obvious, wanting to support from a distance if Lil and Grindar get into trouble.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday September 26th, 2019 5:58:27 AM
"This is odd" Grindar whispers to Lil as the giant beetle thing doesn't move, "It's position is a little off, I'm going in for a closer look". He then draws Bwyell from his back, and moves as close as he can while using the grass for cover. when he is about 50ft away, he will switch into super sneaky mode to move the remainder of the way, stopping about 30 ft from the beetle. (Stealth 25)

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=21 ; d8+3=6 ;
Thursday September 26th, 2019 12:30:22 PM
'Lil ain't got no super sneaky mode. She follows Grindar until he goes into his, but that puts her in range to charge and stab somethin' if she needs to.

Readied action: Charge and stab what needs stabbin'. Hit AC 21 for 6 damage.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 26th, 2019 2:12:45 PM
Bigby will do double move to move closer to her allies and hopefully able to attack a round later if needed.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 26th, 2019 4:16:09 PM
ooc: bigby is he. woops

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Thursday September 26th, 2019 7:08:13 PM
Sol will remain fair enough away that his lack of grace will not affect the party's attempts at stealth, but close enough that he is not beyond the range he can help from, he however whispers quietly.

"What is there? Can you see anything more clearly?"

GM Steve -- This is odd
Thursday September 26th, 2019 10:46:14 PM
Caelwyn, with an arrow on the string, approaches to within longbow range, trying to stay under cover.

Grindar whispers to Lil as the giant beetle thing doesn't move, "I'm going in for a closer look".

'Lil follows Grindar until he starts to sneak, but that puts her in range to charge and stab somethin' if she needs to.

Bigby moves closer to his allies and hopefully able to attack a round later if needed.

Sol remains fair enough away that his lack of grace will not affect the party's attempts at stealth, but close enough that he is not beyond the range he can help from.

.
The party takes another minute or two to make its way into folks' respective positions. Furthest, Caelwyn and Sol stop about 100' from what is by then clearly a huge beetle. Bigby, 'Lil, and Grindar move to about 70', 50', and 30' away respectively. Grindar takes his time for the last little bit, moving carefully and quietly. Grindar has not seen the beetle move yet.

The beetle is about 10' long and 5' or 6' high, which leaves the grasses hiding its lower portion. It is bright green and gold, with some mottled shading into other colors in places. The more armored portions are reflective, as well. It is tilted over at an angle, and has been the entire time.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday September 26th, 2019 11:08:41 PM
Caelwyn can't tell if the thing is asleep or dead, but he doesn't want to find out. He gestures for Lil and Grindar to fall back, but doesn't call out for fear of waking the creature up.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=27 ; d20=17 ;
Friday September 27th, 2019 6:04:09 AM
Grindar looks at the ground to see if he can find a small rock, if he does, while holding Bwyell in his off hand, he will throw the rock so that it hits the ground on the opposite side of the beetle. He isn't aiming at anything in particular, just testing his hypothesis that the bug is dead, hopefully without giving away his position. (stealth 27+2 for favored terrain=29) I'm not sure if I need to make an attack roll or not for throwing the rock, but rolled a 17+7 for strength and Bab -4 for improvised weapon=20.

If Grindar can't find a rock, he will draw one of his daggers, and throw that in the same fashion. 17+7 for strength and bab -4 for being out of range by two increments=20

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday September 27th, 2019 11:23:07 AM
'Lil's getting bored. "We gonna take this much time every time we see something what ain't grass? Animals don't stay that still less they're dead. We should probably be more worried about what down there is holding on to that bug."

She thinks. "An animal eating it would be moving it around. Maybe there's some carnivorous plant over there slowly digestin' it's head or something."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday September 27th, 2019 11:38:13 AM
Bigby watches and waits. "this place is gets weirder and weirder. This was the shiny, right?"

GM Steve -- This was the shiny, right?
Saturday September 28th, 2019 11:20:11 AM
Caelwyn gestures for Lil and Grindar to fall back, but doesn't call out for fear of waking the creature up.

Grindar looks around for something to throw, finally settling on one of his daggers. While holding Bwyell in his off hand, he throws the dagger so that it hits the ground on the opposite side of the beetle with a satisfying rustling of the grass.

'Lil's getting bored. She whispers, "Animals don't stay that still less they're dead. We should probably be more worried about what down there is holding on to that bug."

Bigby watches and waits. "This place is -- gets weirder and weirder."

.
The rustling of the grass when Grindar's dagger falls was louder than he has been, but is followed by a continued lack of movement by the beetle. (Or of, to 'Lil's point, whatever may be holding the beetle.)

People's distances to the beetle remain unchanged this round.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Saturday September 28th, 2019 6:46:44 PM
Sol moves in a little closer, watching Corbin, and asking him to let him know if anything starts sneaking up on the party.

Sol ensures he gets within about 60 feet, so his spells will be able to work.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=4 ;
Sunday September 29th, 2019 8:50:34 PM
Caelwyn creeps a bit closer, but stays well behind the others. He tries to see if there is anything holding the beetle down.

Perception 4

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=24 ;
Monday September 30th, 2019 5:53:56 AM
Emboldened by the outcome of his experiment, Grindar, with Bwyell in hand, walks boldly over to retrieve his dagger, and examine the beetle more closely. (Perception 24)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday September 30th, 2019 12:26:27 PM
"is it dead Grindar? Try kicking it."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Monday September 30th, 2019 3:05:01 PM
'Lil follows Grindar, taking no effort to remain sneaky. She's still ready to charge and attack anything what needs attacking.

Reusing previous to-hit roll: Charge and stab what needs stabbin'. Hit AC 21 for 6 damage.

GM Steve -- Stab what needs stabbin'
Monday September 30th, 2019 8:07:52 PM
Sol moves in a little closer, watching Grindar, choosing an optimum spell-casting distance. Corbin is watching from above.

Caelwyn creeps a bit closer, but stays well behind the others. He tries to see if there is anything holding the beetle down.

Grindar, emboldened by the outcome of his experiment, walks boldly over to retrieve his dagger, and examine the beetle more closely.

Bigby asks, "Is it dead Grindar? Try kicking it."

'Lil follows Grindar, taking no effort to remain sneaky. She's still ready to charge and attack anything what needs attacking.

.
Grindar, followed by 'Lil, walks around the beetle to where his dagger landed. The beetle continues not to move. He does not see anything that might be holding it down -- if anything is, it's low in the grass. In fact, Grindar gathers that the beetle has been dead for some time, as there are normal-sized insects making a feast of it at the joints in its carapace. And those wings are the size of tower shields.

'Lil eagerly looks for something to attack, but is disappointed. The shell of the beetle sparkles in the sun.

Grindar and 'Lil end up about 10' away from the beetle on the far side (down-slope) from where you started. The remainder of the party is staggered at 50' to 80' away on the up-slope side, where Grindar and 'Lil are half-hidden by the beetle.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Monday September 30th, 2019 8:53:46 PM
"Well, this is dissapointin'," says 'Lil as she puts Maya away. "Still, real pretty, eh? At least it was when it wasn't swarmin' with bugs and junk."

She has a thought. She gets Maya back out and starts pokin' them wings. They tough enough to actually be tower shields?

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday September 30th, 2019 10:38:59 PM
Caelwyn relaxes a bit, seeing how close his comrades have gotten to the beetle without its moving at all. He puts away his bow, swapping it for his spear and trident, and marches forward toward them, still keeping an eye out for trouble.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday October 1st, 2019 5:41:15 AM
"I was thinking the same thing Lil, I don't normally fight with a shield, but for those that do, if these things are strong enough, they would make a very attractive shield indeed".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday October 1st, 2019 11:20:41 AM
Bigby will move up closer.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Tuesday October 1st, 2019 5:57:06 PM
Sol, seeing the danger is apparently passed, or at least the threat of it will move up closer.

"What is it my friends, do you know what this thing is?"

He approaches so he can see the bug himself.

"Or what happened to it?"

GM Steve -- There must be a million of them
Tuesday October 1st, 2019 8:07:06 PM
'Lil puts her weapon away, saying, "Well, this is dissapointin'. Still, real pretty, eh? At least it was when it wasn't swarmin' with bugs and junk." She has a thought. She gets Maya back out and starts pokin' them wings. They tough enough to actually be tower shields?

Caelwyn relaxes a bit, seeing how close his comrades have gotten to the beetle without its moving at all. He puts away his bow, swapping it for his spear and trident, and marches forward toward them, still keeping an eye out for trouble.

Grindar speaks to 'Lil. "I was thinking the same thing Lil, I don't normally fight with a shield, but for those that do, if these things are strong enough, they would make a very attractive shield indeed".

Bigby moves closer.

Sol, seeing the danger is apparently passed, or at least the threat of it will move up closer so he can see the bug himself. "What is it my friends, do you know what this thing is? Or what happened to it?"

.
'Lil's weapon hits the beetle's wing with a satisfying THUNK but doesn't mark the surface. Whatever these wings are made of, they're tough.

However, the insects on the beetle are disturbed by the vibration. You hear a buzzing coming from within and below the beetle, immediately followed by an enormous swarm of cockroach-sized flying insects that come boiling out of the joints in the carapace. Three of you are well out of the area of the swarm, but 'Lil and Grindar are caught in it and covered by the bugs.

'Lil is 5' from the beetle, downslope; Grindar is next to her. Bigby, Sol, and Caelwyn are about 40', 50', and 60' away, upslope, when they realize what has happened. The swarm is about 15' in diameter, with 'Lil and Grindar at its center, and includes both crawlers and fliers. This is difficult terrain.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 5:50:02 AM
"Well, this is just dandy!" Grindar says as he tries moving out of the swarm, by moving 10ft south of his current location, once out of the swarm, he will drop to the ground, and roll around, hoping to squish as many bugs as possible that might be clinging to his body still.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 4:10:01 PM
Bigby will cast produce flame in his right hand and prepare to attack the swarm. "Fire works if memory serves."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 5:43:29 PM
"I was just pokin' your bug, little dudes!" cries 'Lil. She takes stock of the situation, trying to determine if these were dangerous bugs swarming them, or just gross ones. If she's getting hurt, she'll pound the ground around'er with Ramona. Otherwise she follows Grindar outta this place.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 6:59:40 PM
Caelwyn curses under his breath. "This again..." He immediately moves forward and to help knock bugs off his comrades if he can. He wonders how quickly he could make a torch...perhaps that could be of more assistance?

GM Steve -- Well, this is just dandy! d6=6 ; d6=3 ;
Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 11:52:23 PM
Grindar tries moving out of the swarm. After ten feet, he drops to the ground and rolls around, hoping to squish as many bugs as possible that might be clinging to his body still.

Bigby casts produce flame in his right hand and prepares to attack the swarm.

'Lil cries, "I was just pokin' your bug, little dudes!" She takes stock of the situation, then pounds the ground around'er with Ramona.

Caelwyn curses under his breath. "This again..." He immediately moves forward and to help knock bugs off his comrades if he can. He wonders how quickly he could make a torch...perhaps that could be of more assistance?

.
Link to the map
'Lil, at the center of the swarm, takes 6 points of damage.
Grindar takes 3 points damage.

Grindar is followed by about half of the bugs when he moves, the rest staying with 'Lil. Grindar drops and rolls, ending the round prone. 'Lil lays about energetically, but isn't sure she's having much effect. Both remain surrounded by bugs. Caelwyn moves as far as he can, and Bigby casts his spell before moving. (I have taken the liberty of moving you on the map.)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ;
Thursday October 3rd, 2019 5:08:43 AM
Sol will move a little closer (Q13) and cast Unseen Servant, commanding it to get the bugs off of Lil and Grindar as best it can, focusing on Lil first as she seems to be having more trouble.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 26/29
Thursday October 3rd, 2019 5:38:22 AM
Grindar tries rolling around some more again hoping to clear off some of the bugs. Dropping Bwyell, he swats with both hands as he rolls.

'Lil - (Carl) - 20/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday October 3rd, 2019 12:46:51 PM
'Lil wants to scream about how gross this is, but worries about bugs gettin' in her mouth. Instead, she just charges straight east away from the beetle.

Double move in difficult terrain = 30' east.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+4=10 ; d6+3=9 ;
Thursday October 3rd, 2019 2:00:44 PM
Bigby will move up closer and then throw the produced flame (ranged touch). 10 attack, 9 dmg if hit.

*Flames as bright as a torch appear in your open hand. The flames harm neither you nor your equipment.

In addition to providing illumination, the flames can be hurled or used to touch enemies. You can strike an opponent with a melee touch attack, dealing fire damage equal to 1d6 + 1 point per caster level (maximum +5). Alternatively, you can hurl the flames up to 120 feet as a thrown weapon. When doing so, you attack with a ranged touch attack (with no range penalty) and deal the same damage as with the melee attack. No sooner do you hurl the flames than a new set appears in your hand. Each attack you make reduces the remaining duration by 1 minute. If an attack reduces the remaining duration to 0 minutes or less, the spell ends after the attack resolves.

GM Steve -- Well, this is just dandy! d6=2 ; d6=2 ;
Friday October 4th, 2019 12:05:22 AM
Sol moves closer and casts Unseen Servant, commanding it to get the bugs off of Lil and Grindar as best it can, focusing on Lil first as she seems to be having more trouble.

Grindar tries rolling around some more again hoping to clear off some of the bugs. Dropping Bwyell, he swats with both hands as he rolls.

'Lil wants to scream about how gross this is, but worries about bugs gettin' in her mouth. Instead, she just charges straight east away from the beetle.

Bigby moves closer and throws the produced flame.

.
Link to the map
'Lil and Grindar each take 2 points of damage.

Sol casts his spell this round, and the unseen servant will be able to act next round.

Bigby throws a ball of flame at the bugs, but they are able to dodge and it passes harmlessly through the swarm. The flame reignites in Bigby's hand.

'Lil and Grindar continue their struggles with the bugs, but feel they are accomplishing little.

OOC: Sol is able to reach (Q13) using his movement from last round and this one. Caelwyn may use this round's movement determining what to do next round.

-----
Bug: AC: ?? (touch is higher than 10)
Those on 'Lil -- 0 damage
Those on Grindar -- 0 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday October 4th, 2019 12:46:32 AM
Caelwyn advances toward Lil, holding out his torch to knock away any bugs he can. "Fall back, away from the swarm!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 24/29
Friday October 4th, 2019 5:46:08 AM
Realizing his current plan of action isn't working, Grindar instead grabs Bwyell, and stands up preparing to start moving towards he friends. He says to himself, "I hate bugs. They're gross and nasty, and now they are trying to kill me!"

'Lil - (Carl) - 18/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+2=21 ; 2d6+3=9 ;
Friday October 4th, 2019 10:58:18 AM
'Lil grumbles as the swarm moves with her. She decides to fight instead, raining blows from Ramona on the dumb things.

Hit AC 21 for 9 damage.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=15 ; d6+3=8 ;
Friday October 4th, 2019 4:59:50 PM
bigby will move up to attack it with a melee attack with the flame in his hand. 15 attack, 8 dmg.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=7 ; 4d6=15 ;
Friday October 4th, 2019 5:51:19 PM
Sol curses that he didn't prepare any spells for this sort of thing today... and reminds himself to be more careful in the future with his selection...

"I would require more spells my current spellbook is lacking greatly... all the same. Lil! Move towards us on my signal!"

He will cast Scorching Ray, aiming at the swarm surrounding Lil in an attempt to force them to disperse and give her a free path out of the swarm and relatively free of it.

((7 to hit, (probably miss) but 15 damage))

GM Steve -- They're gross and nasty, and now they are trying to kill me! d6=3 ; d6=3 ; d20+2=8 ;
Friday October 4th, 2019 11:40:58 PM
Caelwyn advances toward Lil, holding out his torch to knock away any bugs he can. "Fall back, away from the swarm!"

Caelwyn swings at the bugs with his torch, but does not manage to do significant damage to the swarm. However, he has engaged with the swarm and finds bugs are now crawling on him. (A torch is an improvised weapon, taking a -4 penalty to hit, and a hit with it will do 1 point of fire damage to the swarm.)

Grindar grabs Bwyell, realizing his current plan of action isn't working and stands up preparing to start moving towards he friends.

Grindar retrieves his weapon and stands.

'Lil grumbles as the swarm moves with her. She decides to fight instead, raining blows from Ramona on the dumb things.

'Lil lays about with her weapon. Although she manages to smash a few cockroaches, she does not do significant damage to the swarm.

Bigby moves up to attack the swarm with a melee attack with the flame in his hand.

Bigby thrusts his burning hand into a dense part of the swarm on 'Lil, causing the bugs to quickly retreat from that area. However, he has engaged with the swarm and finds bugs are now crawling on him, although they are avoiding his right hand and a couple of feet around it.

Sol curses that he didn't prepare any spells for this sort of thing today... and reminds himself to be more careful in the future with his selection... "I would require more spells my current spellbook is lacking greatly... all the same. Lil! Move towards us on my signal!" He casts Scorching Ray, aiming at the swarm surrounding Lil.

Sol's spell goes wide.

.
Link to the map
'Lil and Grindar each take 3 points of damage.

-----
Swarm AC: 16
Those on 'Lil -- 0 damage
Those on Grindar -- 0 damage

'Lil - (Carl) - 15/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+2=8 ;
Sunday October 6th, 2019 2:13:35 PM
'Lil continues using Ramona to mash the cockroaches as much as she's able, but mostly just pounds dirt.

Attack roll: 8. What are we dealing with here, Mr. DM? Swarms should take full damage from bludgeoning attacks.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+3=8 ; d8+3=4 ;
Sunday October 6th, 2019 10:14:30 PM
Caelwyn will also attempt to attack the cockroaches surrounding Lil, although he is unsure how much damage he will do with his longsword.

Attack 8, Damage 4

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 24/29 d20+7=13 ;
Monday October 7th, 2019 5:32:20 AM
Grindar considers swinging Bwyell at the swarm, but realizes his quarterstaff will probably work better, so he drops his orc double ax, as a free action, and draws his quarterstaff, as a move action, and swings it two-handed at the swarm, missing with a 13

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 21/29
Monday October 7th, 2019 5:33:27 AM
fixed header

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=20 ; d6+3=4 ;
Monday October 7th, 2019 1:52:29 PM
Bigby tries to attack the swarm again with the flame. attack 26, 20 confirm crit. dmg 4x2=8.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d20+1=18 ; d3=2 ;
Monday October 7th, 2019 3:04:06 PM
Sol will let out a frustrated yell and then launch a Touch of Frost at the creatures, aiming to help clear Lil off.

"When will my thrice damned magic hit what I require it to?!?"

((Attack - 18 to hit, 2 Damage))

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=6 ; d6=1 ;
Monday October 7th, 2019 6:31:36 PM
Know Nature DC12 Highlight to display spoiler: { Its a cockroach swarm!! Sadly it is immune to weapon damage. }

Lil’ swings again and fails to connect. Something tells her that even her best attack with Ramona will do very little.

Caelwyn also swings but his longsword is equally ineffective.

Grindar is game and switches to his quarterstaff but misses.

Bigby has better luck with his flame attack this time and manages to do not unsubstantial damage to the swarm.

Sol manages to connect with hit frost and does some damage. In fact between Bigby and Sol the swarm on Lil looks substantially smaller.

The substantially smaller swarm stays on Lil and the other on Grindar {ooc; because I cannot edit the map} and cause additional damage. {Lil: 6 | Grindar: 1}
-----
Swarm AC: 16/16/14
Those on 'Lil -- -10 damage
Those on Grindar -- 0 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday October 8th, 2019 12:09:27 AM
Caelwyn tries to beat the bugs off Lil, seeing that his sword is doing little good.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 20/29 d20+4=7 ; d20+5=16 ; d20+5=11 ;
Tuesday October 8th, 2019 5:43:34 AM
Grindar is clueless when it comes to this swarm so he continues to attack it with his quarterstaff, barley hitting with the main hand, but missing with off hand. He then realizes that his weapons aren't going to have any affect.

'Lil - (Carl) - 9/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=12 ;
Tuesday October 8th, 2019 11:01:58 AM
Well, this is bad. 'Lil can feel all the blood that these things have pulled outta her missin'. Her head starts to swim, and she realizes there ain't nothin' she can do to get these things off'er. She tries to heal herself while her friends kill these things, but she can't concentrate well enough.

Save vs. Distraction - 12 = fail

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=18 ;
Tuesday October 8th, 2019 12:29:32 PM
Bigby takes a step back to recast produce flame. knowledge nature 18. "Perhaps some burning hands Sol would work for this. Normal weapons won't work."

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ;
Tuesday October 8th, 2019 3:53:31 PM
Caelwyn tries to beat the bugs but has no effect.

Grindar likewise has no clue about the swarm but tries to beat it before realizing his attacks are having no effect. Rather then move away form swarm Grindar holds his ground hoping for help most likely.

Lil attempts to heal herself, standing in the swarm rather the moving first, but the attempt fails as she is quite distracted by pain.

Bigby calls out that flames will help requesting Burning Hands form Sol as he backs off to catch Produce Flame.

Grindar is still off by himself and takes more damage from the swarm. Lil gets a small relief as the swarm moves off of her onto Bigby who seems the bigger threat. {Damage- Grindar: 6 | Bigby: 1 Wolf: 1 }

-----
Round 6
Swarm AC: 16/16/14
Those on Bigby -- -10 damage
Those on Grindar -- 0 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=3 ; d3=2 ;
Tuesday October 8th, 2019 5:04:57 PM
Sol again attempts to strike out with his Ray of Frost at the creatures attacking Lil, figuring he can do more by exposing them in this deep cold.

"I hope we can scare them off soon..."

He then moves away to W16 to keep a great distance between him and the creatures.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d6=2 ;
Tuesday October 8th, 2019 9:50:03 PM
Caelwyn curses under his breath. "Domi help us...how do we kill these things?" He decides there is nothing for it but to move closer to Lil and lay on hands, to keep her from passing out from blood loss.

Lay on hands: heal 2 hit points

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29
Wednesday October 9th, 2019 5:35:06 AM
Grindar makes a double move landing at 17/N trying to get closer to his friends, and hoping to leave the swarm.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=11 ; d20+6=14 ;
Wednesday October 9th, 2019 12:05:41 PM
Bigby will attack the bugs on himself with both claws. 11. 14. (ooc: guess can't get a break).

'Lil - (Carl) - 22/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 2d8+3=8 ; d8=4 ;
Wednesday October 9th, 2019 2:01:51 PM
'Lil starts yelling as the bugs swarm off her. She's horrified to see them going after Bigby instead. She ain't sure what to do. They can't outrun the things, she has no way'a smashin' them, and now they're all over the guy that can hurt him.

She knows what she has to do. In a flash, she heals herself, then wades through the grass towards Bigby and the swarm. "Bigby! Get on wolf and ride outta them! I'll keep'em busy while you get that fire spell goin' again!"

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=3 ;
Wednesday October 9th, 2019 2:58:49 PM
Sol tries his Ray of Frost again, but it fails to connect, before getting some distance from the swarm.

Caelwayn curses under his breath and helps to keep the bloodied Lil standing.

Grindar extricates himself from the swarm and moves closer to his companions. Blood flows freely from many small bites.

Bigby lashes out with claws but fails to catch a break. {ooc: Are they flaming?}

Lil starts yelling as the bugs swarm off her and is horrified to see them going to Bigby instead. With an idea she heals herself and waids back into the bugs calling "Bigby! Get on wolf and ride outta them! I'll keep'em busy while you get that fire spell goin' again!"

All in all the team is not fairing very well. The swam on Bigby is greatly thinned and cannot take much more but stays where it is and eats at Bigby. The other swarm, having lost its meal moves towards where the most meals are. It flies over Grindar but does not bite as it moves and closes in very close on Lil and Cawlwyn. {Damage – Bigby: 3}

Round 7
Swarm AC: 16/16/14
Those on Bigby -- -10 damage
Those on Grindar -- 0 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=12 ;
Wednesday October 9th, 2019 5:39:41 PM
Sol sighs heavily, and attempts to cast Scorching Ray at the swarm on Grindar, avoiding his friend, however the ray goes wide, and he lets out a frustrated groan.

"I have no ability to cast my higher level magics today... I suppose I will have to go to my next level of arcane might..."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 26/27 -AC 17 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=19 ; d6+3=6 ;
Wednesday October 9th, 2019 11:43:16 PM
Bigby will try another flame attack (his last one for this spell, but can cast one more. ooc: yes flaming, well I guess one hand is? didn't think about that). 26, 19 confirm crit. 6x2=12 dmg.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d6=1 ;
Thursday October 10th, 2019 12:23:19 AM
Caelwyn sees what Lil is doing and moves to help her with another lay on hands, which sadly doesn't do much. "Domi protect us" he mutters as they advance toward the bugs.

Lil take 1 additional hit points

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29
Thursday October 10th, 2019 5:23:57 AM
feeling worse then useless, Grindar goes back to 20, J to retrieve Bwyell. As he does, he says, "let's try getting away from these pesky bugs!"

'Lil - (Carl) - 22/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday October 10th, 2019 12:30:28 PM
"We can't outrun these things, dude!" 'Lil shouts over the hum of the cockroaches. "Gotta keep'em busy while our magic folk kill'em. Bigby should really get on his wolf and kite'em, though!"

With that, 'Lil closes the distance between her and Bigby. She starts jumpin' up and down on the bugs, trying to get their attention. "Go on dude," she says to Bigby. "Get outta here so you can burn'em down before they kill me."

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=3 ; d6=6 ;
Thursday October 10th, 2019 5:28:20 PM
Sol, poor poor inaccurate Sol, misses yet again with one of his spells

Lil steps into the bugs around Bigby only to have the following happen.

Bigbys attack shows the most results. The claws do… nothing BUT the flame kills enough roaches to disperse one of the swarms.

Caelwyn see what Lil is doing and moves to heal her and and support her effort.

Brave Sir Grindar ran away. Bravely ran away away.

The remaining swarm continued its advance despite Lil moving and makes a meal of Caelwyn biting and getting the sweet blood of life. {Damage – Caelwyn: 3}

Round 6
Swarm AC: 16/16/14
Those on Bigby -- -10 damage*DEAD*
Those on Grindar -- 0 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d4+1=2 ;
Thursday October 10th, 2019 6:17:36 PM
Sol shakes his head and summons up a Magic Missile, aimed at the swarm on Grindar.

"This spell, thankfully does not rely on my own aiming ability."

((2 points of damage))

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 26/27 -AC 17
Thursday October 10th, 2019 7:55:42 PM
ooc: Sol, lvl 3 magic missile should be two missiles. And we can really use the second missile lol.

For every two caster levels beyond 1st, you gain an additional missile – two at 3rd level, three at 5th, four at 7th, and the maximum of five missiles at 9th level or higher. If you shoot multiple missiles, you can have them strike a single creature or several creatures. A single missile can strike only one creature. You must designate targets before you check for spell resistance or roll damage.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d6=4 ;
Thursday October 10th, 2019 8:25:10 PM
"Blasted insects!" Caelwyn immediately moves toward Bigby, hoping for a little help, but he doesn't get too close - he doesn't want them heading for Bigby instead.

OOC: Rolled a 1 on my last pay on hands for Lil, I re-roll it here - take 4 points of healing, Lil

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29
Friday October 11th, 2019 5:15:56 AM
Seeing his brothers and sister staying put, and one of the swarms disperse, Grindar, still feeling useless, runs back towards his friends. (4x move speed) Feeling ashamed for his brief bout of cowardice , he decides to make up for it. Realizing he can’t hurt the thing, instead he tries to sacrifice his own body to protect those who can, and because he took of his breastplate before examining the beetle, he is able to run directly into the swarm, in spit of the difficult terrain.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 26/27 -AC 17 d20+6=18 ; d6+3=5 ;
Friday October 11th, 2019 11:24:52 AM
Bigby moves over to the next swarm and attacks with the flame att 18, dmg 5.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=2 ; d6=2 ;
Friday October 11th, 2019 6:43:19 PM
Caelwyn curses the insects and moves toward Bigby hoping for a little help.

Sol fires off a magic missile that fails to do any damage. {ooc: did no like typing that}

Bigby moves to the next swarm and scores a hit singing bugs as he swings.

Grindar turns back around and runs into the swarm, sacrificing some of his own life force to protect the party.

Lil basks in the healing energy and drools a little.

The remaining swarm is not smart so it does not see the threat the Bigby poses. Not moving it swarms crawling in every crevice and orifice of Caelwayn and the newly arrived grinder. Small streams of blood flow from the two robust heroes. {Damage – Caelwyn: 2 | Grindar: 2}

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday October 11th, 2019 6:58:37 PM
OOC: Darn, missed it by 10 minutes.

'Lil snaps to. Wading into the roaches herself wouldn't accomplish anything, so she touches Bigby on the back. The wolf dude feels a rage well up inside him when she does. "Go get'em, dude!"

*Battle rage to Bigby: +2 to melee damage, which I think includes swiping at the bugs w/ your produce flame spell active.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 26/27 -AC 17
Sunday October 13th, 2019 9:57:57 PM
Feeling the surge of anger course through his veigns from 'Lil's spell, Bigby yells, "rage, rage, you are going to die like the cockroaches you are." But realizing he needs to cast the spell again, he keeps it together and 5' steps back to cast produce flame again. The flame produces to his hand and the anger courses back through his veins.

Sol sub
Sunday October 13th, 2019 10:02:58 PM
Sol pulls out the burning hands wand with a move action and moves forward 5' He will mentally prepare to cast this cone on the cockroaches. "If you can I'd move out of there. This will be a cone attack."

ooc: not sure what level wand this is? Level 1? Range 15 ft.
Area cone-shaped burst
Duration instantaneous
Saving Throw Reflex half; Spell Resistance yes

DESCRIPTION

A cone of searing flame shoots from your fingertips.

Any creature in the area of the flames takes 1d4 points of fire damage per caster level (maximum 5d4).

Flammable materials burn if the flames touch them. A character can extinguish burning items as a full-round action.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29
Monday October 14th, 2019 6:00:42 AM
Hearing Sol’s warning, Grindar runs out of the swarm .

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=6 ; d6=6 ;
Monday October 14th, 2019 2:04:25 PM
Sol pulls out the wand of burning hands and yells to the others to move out of the attack. {ooc: Wands are lowest level possible unless otherwise stated so 1st level}

Lil snaps out of it touches Bigby on the back filling him with rage before stepping into the bugs to hold them in place.

Bigby feels the rage and yells about killing cockroaches before casting produce flame.

Grindar hears Sols warning and moves away from the swarm.

Caelwyn holds tight to keep the swarm in place.

The swarm stays where it is and bites at Lil and Caelway which gives Sol and Bigby the time the need to attack when ready. {Damage – Caelwyn: 6 | Lil: 6}

Round 10
Swarm AC: 16/16/14
Those on Bigby -- -10 damage*DEAD*
Those on Grindar -- -4 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 21/27; CMD: 15
Monday October 14th, 2019 9:45:24 PM
Caelwyn winces, attempting to move away from Lil in the hopes that the swarm will split up and be easier to take down.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29
Tuesday October 15th, 2019 5:30:50 AM
Grindar stands ready to give aid if needed. He hates this feeling of helplessness, and vows to purchase some alchemist fire, and/ or acid next time he has a chance.

'Lil - (Carl) - 20/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday October 15th, 2019 9:22:04 AM
'Lil grits her teeth and bears the cockroach swarm, hoping Bigby and Sol can deal with it quick.

Sol sub d4=1 ;
Tuesday October 15th, 2019 11:50:22 AM
Sol considers whether the attack will hit 'Lil or not but decides he has no choice. He attempts to point the cone to hit the corner of the swarm and in a way to hopefully avoid 'Lil and Caelwyn. dmg 1

ooc: assuming it's level 1? lol 1dmg and they get a reflex save.

bigby (mike m) d20+8=14 ; d6+3=8 ;
Tuesday October 15th, 2019 11:53:29 AM
Bigby moves up to attack again with his produce flame and with rage. attack 14. Will use hero point to get a plus 8 luck bonus to the roll, which should make it a hit. 8 dmg.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Tuesday October 15th, 2019 12:55:33 PM
Sol singes some of the bugs but it is Bigby who really sinks his metaphorical l teeth into the swarm doing massive damage with his flame. They day is saved by Bigby and his magical flame as the bugs disperse and whatever held them as a swarm is lost.

The buzzing is ended, the area is quiet and blood slows seeps from the heroes of the Sargrass.

120xp each

Sadly the beetle did not carry a large pile of gold or wear magical armor but the two plates of its carapace appear quiet sturdy. Each is roughly the size of a tower shield and appears to have been impervious to both the swarm and to the elements.

The journey awates but you are bloody and the adrenalin as worn off.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d6=1 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ;
Tuesday October 15th, 2019 4:51:01 PM
When the cockroaches begin to get gone, 'Lil is shaking with barely contained anger. When they're finally controlled, she begins to scream. It's a guttural, angry, ugly scream.

She removes each piece of her armor, screaming anew as she does and crushing any lingering roaches. She continues ranting as she removes however much of'er clothin' as she needs to to be sure there ain't no bugs left.

Half-naked, she stomps over to the large beetle and grabs one of the wings with her bare hands and yells out, "I HATE THIS STUPID GRASSY DESERT!" as she rips the wing from the beetle and hurls it towards (but not at) the party. She repeats it with the other wing, lifting it over her head as she looks for somethin' to beat with it. Finding nothing, she slams it into the ground and stomps away. "When we get back to town, I'm gonna buy so much alchemists fire. So help me I'll burn all the bugs in this whole darn place."

She's breathin' heavy by the time she makes it back to the rest of the party. Looking around, she swallows and places her hand on the tattoo of Domi on her chest. Positive energy flows outward from her, stitchin' up all the little insect bites (Channel positive energy - 7 HP healed to whole party). "Sol, you got one'a them prestidigiwhatsits to clean all this blood and these insect guts off us?"

Sol sub
Tuesday October 15th, 2019 5:24:09 PM
Sol hears 'Lil and cast his Prestidigitation spell on her and anyone else who needs a good cleaning. "Well then, that was certainly gross."

bigby (mike m)
Tuesday October 15th, 2019 6:16:30 PM
the flame diminishes from Bigby's hand after spreading the cockroaches. The rage is still coursing through him. He paces up and down and starts hopping up and down. "Calm down, calm down...happy place." Seeing 'Lil doing better, Bigby starts to calm down. He starts breathing deeply and shakes his hands.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29
Wednesday October 16th, 2019 10:06:31 AM
Grindar thanks ‘Lil for the healing, and Sol for the clean up, and then asks, “Does anyone have any idea what these things are worth?”

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Wednesday October 16th, 2019 2:01:27 PM
Lil reacts very appropriately, stripping her gear after screaming in rage. She takes the time to kill off any stray bugs, as is right and proper, before declaring her hatred for the stupid grassy desert. All that done she provides some healing for the group.

Sol lends a hand to the clean up liberally using his prestidigitation and declaring the whole thing gross.

Bigby dismisses his flame while his rage still courses though him. He paces back and forth looking for his happy place.

Grindar is happy with the healing and the cleaning but wonders what the betel chunks could be worth if sold.

The value of the wings is probably hard to determine without the aid of a creative craftsman. He material is clearly hard, maybe it could be come armor or a shield or just decorative inlays. Still, the value of gold is pretty low at the moment as there is no place to spend a copper within sight.

There is still a long journey ahead of you and this is probably not the last obstacle that will be presented to you. The travel is slow and you occasionally hear the sound of movement in the grasses and even, near the end of the day can see a large shell moving though the grass but it is far enough away to ignore if you like. The Sargrass Plains are yours, attack an unknown or simply crashing for the night.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday October 16th, 2019 4:29:23 PM
*The rage only lasts a round. Bigby should be back to his level-headed self again.

'Lil gathers up her clothes and armor as she cools her jets. She enjoys the freedom of not being bogged down by a bunch'a metal for a moment longer before getting back into her battle gear. She wonders if the shell could be fashioned into a set of armor instead of a shield. She makes a mental note and agrees to carry one of the things (how heavy is it?).

When the sun gets low in the sky, she looks to Grindar for the sign to stop. He knows better than she how long it'll take to get a camp goin'.

bigby (mike m)
Wednesday October 16th, 2019 4:48:38 PM
"perhaps a large shell equals larger swarms of bugs. I ain't got the spells for this. Sleep it is."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday October 16th, 2019 8:38:09 PM
Caelwyn, while not reacting as strongly as Lil, understands her feelings. He is not feeling too fond of the Sargrass himself, at the moment. "Good work everyone. I guess we can carry these with us...they may yet prove useful."

He turns to Bigby. "Thank you. We certainly needed your skills there...there wasn't much I could do against those irritating things."

And to Lil: "I'm not feeling too kindly toward this place either...it seems every day something is out to get us. But we shall prevail...Domi has given us all we need."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29
Thursday October 17th, 2019 5:16:42 AM
Grindar answers Lil's question by saying, "We have taken a beating, and rest would be prudent, and I agree that this place is really making me second guess my decision to come here, However, there has been one experience that I wouldn't have change for the whole Wold, and that is meeting you guys!"

Sol sub
Thursday October 17th, 2019 10:26:55 AM
Sol apreciates the thank yous to the clean up and agrees with rest. After hearing Grindars response, "agree my friends."

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Thursday October 17th, 2019 2:55:18 PM
Lil gets her self back in her gear after enjoying the small break and defers to others on when to stop.

Bigby wants no part of the large shell they saw moving and agrees rest is needed.

Caelwyn is not as stron in his reaction but also does not like the Sargrass at the moment.

Sol apricates the thanks for cleaning them up and agrees to rest.

Grindar agrees that after taking a beating rest is a good idea for them all. He also attempts to have a tender moment with the team.

The party sets up camp, eats and prepares for the night. {ooc: Any added healing pre bed time?} Weather the food is cooked or cold you eat, sharpen blades, pick bugs from unmentionable places that prestidigitation missed and generally get settled for the night.

It is dusk just before darkness when there is a stirring in the air and a towering figure appears I the sky. A towering human male in white robes with a shortly cropped white beard. His eyes are either burning with energy or devoid of all emotion, it is hard to tell, they shift and move. His head tilts toward the party and his mouth opens only once as a sentence shakes your bones with its intensity and power. Oddly though you can feel its force it does not so much as disturb the grass around you.

“WHY ARE YOU HERE?”

You can only assume he/it is addressing you.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29
Thursday October 17th, 2019 3:42:06 PM
Grindar jumps to his feet, and is about to brandish Bwyell, but something inside him stops, and he instead he answers, ”Sir, that is a good question. Originally we were here seeking fame and fortune, and perhaps a new home, but lately, we have been asking ourselves the same question. The truth is this place seems out to get us, and we are beginning to wonder if it’s worth it. I mean no offense sir. If this place is precious to you please forgive me if it seems like I am bad mouthing the place, because I’m not, I’m simply trying to answer honestly., which is to say, we don’t know anymore. May I ask your name?”

Bigby
Thursday October 17th, 2019 4:56:13 PM
Bigby looks sleepily and says, "druid wood." and then goes back to sleep.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday October 17th, 2019 10:31:28 PM
Caelwyn also leaps to his feet, his hand on his trident, but he also stops short of threatening such a figure. Diplomacy is the best option here. He waits to hear what the creature will say.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday October 18th, 2019 10:45:44 AM
'Lil's sure to heal anyone what needs healing before bed. She has plenty of available healing magics left.

***

She wakes up and sees...that. She remembers she was rude to it last time, and that it's probably a power or somethin'. Grindar's already started talkin', so she lets him keep going.

Sol sub
Friday October 18th, 2019 11:43:57 AM
ooc, forgot to change the header. Sol "We are here to help our people in rottedam (something like that). How shall we address you?"

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Friday October 18th, 2019 12:42:58 PM
Caelwyn leaps to his feet, trident in hand but stops short and waits to hear what is said.

Lil remembers being rude and holds her tongue.

Grindar leaps to his feet about to brandish a weapon but something inside him holds him back and he speaks. ”Sir, that is a good question. Originally we were here seeking fame and fortune, and perhaps a new home, but lately, we have been asking ourselves the same question. The truth is this place seems out to get us, and we are beginning to wonder if it’s worth it. I mean no offense sir. If this place is precious to you please forgive me if it seems like I am bad mouthing the place, because I’m not, I’m simply trying to answer honestly., which is to say, we don’t know anymore. May I ask your name?”

Bigby mutters a simple phrase as he sleeps. “Druid wood.”

The massively enormous visages face dose not change or, if there is a change, the change is very subtle.

Perception DC16 Highlight to display spoiler: { When the question of the Saragrass being worth it one eyebrow, the left one, raises ever so very slightly. Bigbys mention of Druid Wood causes a very small shift of the eyes of the being to Bigby and then in the way you are going. }

There is no intake of breath and the mouth does no open as the following is heard in the heads of the paty. First a very deep but unspeakably quiet hmmmm before, louder then last time.

“WHO ARE YOU HERE?”

{ooc: Feel free to respond but going to keep it moving. Your responses could matter, who knows? Well I know I guess.}

With that the figure fades away over a few seconds leaving you in the now dark Sargrass to yourselves.

Lil heals any and all wounds before you bed down and the night, assuming you set watches as normal, passes without incident. You rise in the morning refreshed and ready to tackle… more grass.

What are you doing as you start moving?

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=17 ;
Sunday October 20th, 2019 8:04:47 PM
Caelwyn thinks out loud as he prepares to set out. "That must be some aspect of the Sargrass again...do we need to offer it some kind of sacrifice to appease it, perhaps? It doesn't seem outright aggressive, but it's certainly unsure about our presence...

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 d20+8=27 ;
Monday October 21st, 2019 5:28:25 AM
"We are just a group of adventurers who care for each other, and are trying to make something of ourselves" Grindar begins, "As far as what we call ourselves, we haven't really decided on a name yet, though we should probably decide on one soon".

As they begin to head out, Grindar, with Bwyell in hand, takes his place at the head of the pack, looking for anything out of the ordinary. (Perception 27)

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Monday October 21st, 2019 10:27:23 AM
Who are we here? Welp, that question pretty much guaranteed 'Lil would be up all night ponderin' it. Blast...

"She didn't ask what we are here, or who we were, she asked who we were 'ere...which implies we may be somethin' here that we ain't some place else." She scratches her head. "I'm more violent out here, I noticed. Can't go throwin' things and making a scene in Hook City like ya can out here in the middle of no where. I guess I'm more myself out in the wilderness. Hadn't thought of that, really."

Sol sub
Monday October 21st, 2019 11:20:31 AM
"these powers that be ask strange questions." March, march, march...all day long. March, march, march...while I sing this song.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Monday October 21st, 2019 1:20:08 PM
Grindar answers for the group "We are just a group of adventurers who care for each other, and are trying to make something of ourselves. As far as what we call ourselves, we haven't really decided on a name yet, though we should probably decide on one soon"

Lil wonders at the new question and fears she will be up all night pondering it. She poses some thoughts to the group. "She didn't ask what we are here, or who we were, she asked who we were 'ere...which implies we may be somethin' here that we ain't some place else. I'm more violent out here, I noticed. Can't go throwin' things and making a scene in Hook City like ya can out here in the middle of no where. I guess I'm more myself out in the wilderness. Hadn't thought of that, really."

Caelwayn comments on the nature of the aspects. "That must be some aspect of the Sargrass again...do we need to offer it some kind of sacrifice to appease it, perhaps? It doesn't seem outright aggressive, but it's certainly unsure about our presence...” While Bigby simply grumbles about the powers asking strange questions.

100xp Each for thoughtful responses.

Restored and rested the part continues their monotonous journey though the seemingly never ending grass. The immortal power that had questioned you at night fall does not show its face again so there really is little to break up the journey. Further from civilization you can just tell that things are probably more dangerous.

At one point, not 100 yards in front of you something darts though the grass running from your left to right. It is extremely fast but you can only tell its presence by the movement of the grass. After a ten second pause two more grass disturbances dart by disturbing the vegetation. An astute observer of nature would think that these must be creatures that are hardy indeed so as not to be damaged by the grass itself.

Mid day comes and goes and the wheel of time keeps moving. As the day grows you have passed a few different sorts of grass mostly things you have seen before.

Ahead you hear a noise, probably far ahead.

What do you do now? Everyone needs a perception check with their post please.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=2 ;
Monday October 21st, 2019 3:01:46 PM
((OoC: Nat 1 on Perception, and I can take over again now, thanks for the Sub!))

Sol seeing the original creatures dart in front, but now oblivious, continues on his way without stopping.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=9 ;
Monday October 21st, 2019 9:11:23 PM
Perception 9

Caelwyn halts, listening. "Wait...I can't quite make out what that is...does anyone else hear that noise? We'd best proceed carefully..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 d20+8=11 ;
Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 9:59:41 AM
Grindar thinks he hears something, so he stops and listens. (Perception 11)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=16 ;
Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 11:23:00 AM
perception 16. "I think I hear a noise. It's far ahead."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=12 ;
Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 1:46:30 PM
'Lil's revelation sustains her through the day's slog through the grass. The realization of how free she was out here does lots to keep her spirits high. She alternates between singin' and hummin' when she's not chatting up whoever moseys next to her.

Perception: 12

She pulls out Maya when she 'eres it, prepared to stab what needs stabbin'. She puts her back against Grindar's, or at least close to it. "Eyes open all around, folks. Let's not get surrounded."

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 3:01:34 PM
Sol wanders on in an oblivious manner.

Caelwyn halts listening…

Grindar knows he hears something but not what.

Lil’s revelation sustains her though the days slog alternating between singing and humming.

Bigby has sharp eyes and notices the one thing that all the others had missed.

About to step forward into yet more grass Bigby alerts the group that something is different. Ahead of them there is a subtle change in the grass that he spotted as being blade grass, a variation on the grass all around you that will cut a person to ribbons.

Blade Grass Highlight to display spoiler: { Will injure if passing though. 1d6 damage DC12 Reflex for half each round }

Further Bigby can see that the subtle changes in the grass continues in a straight line to each side for the limited distance that you can see. It is unclear how deep the blade grass goes but going around would be a more pleasant option. All that however can wait as the sound of rustling in the grass is getting closer….. and closer…… and closer. You have time to prepare and draw weapons before a large opalescent yellow and orange beetle bursts though the grass eyeing the party. The large creature is squat but moves with a swift motion, its two oversized mandibles appear to be remarkably sharp!

Know Nature DC14 Highlight to display spoiler: { This appears to be a variation on a slicer beetle that has adapted to the Sargrass planes. Immune to mind effecting effects and poor flying ability. }

There is more rustling beyond the beetle but it does not appear to be getting closer just moving through.

The beetle may be as surprised to see you as you are it so you can the jump on it.

Map updated. You should have control of your pawns.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=8 ; d8+3=4 ;
Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 8:50:37 PM
Caelwyn hopes they can scare the beetle off by a quick, but quiet attack. He raises his shield and steps forward, stabbing with his trident at the creature.

Attack 8, Damage 4

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=18 ; d20+2=18 ; d3=1 ;
Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 3:52:22 AM
Sol, a bit taken aback by this sudden appearance simple casts Ray of Frost, as he doesn't appear to think.

((18 to hit, 1 damage))

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 11:14:01 AM
"woah, woah, you're gonna cut yourself in that grass going after that thing." Bigby casts magic fang on himself.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=12 ; d8+1=2 ; d20+4=6 ;
Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 2:27:02 PM
'Lil watches as her friends start tryin'a kill the bug. "Ya know, maybe we could have just let it go by and flatten all this blade grass for us." She hefts Maya. "Now we're gonna have to kill it."

She ain't wantin' to move forward to attack since it's pretty far up there. She summons a spiritual hammer to start beatin' on it instead. It ain't an impressive opening attack, though.

**

Move: Move up with Caelwyn, but keep behind'im
Standard: Spiritual hammer on the beetle. Hits AC 12 for 2 damage.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 2:45:34 PM
Calewyn advances and tries stabs at the creature but really cannot get close enough to connect. Just as well as his stab would have been off balance. {ooc: I moved you fifteen feet, ½ speed for difficult terrain, feel free to change that move once you look at the map.}

Sol’s is taken aback and launches a ray of frost that connects for minimal damage. {ooc: I moved you up fifteen so you were in range.}

Bigby worns of grass and casts magic fang.

Lil comments that maybe the bug would have passed and made a path if not for the hostile actions. Still she summons a spiritual hammer and bounces it off the shell of the bug.

Grindar is caught unaware and freezes.

The beetle, rising to the challenge, advances on the party but does not get close enough to attack yet due to the thick grasses of the Sargrass Plane. It does however get close enough that it can be hit by those in the front.

Beetle AC: 17/9/17 HP: -1

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 d20=10 ; d8=6 ;
Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 5:47:40 PM
Grindar snaps out of it, and moves forward to attack the beetle attempting a two handed attack.

10+9=19 for 6+6=12 damage

OOC.. sorry for failing to post yesterday, for some reason I typed it up, but failed to submit it.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=5 ;
Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 7:37:48 PM
Sol, elated at finally hitting with a spell, tries again.

"At least I managed to strike the creature this time, unfortunately the nature and reactions of animals are not my strong suit."

However this time he misses.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=13 ; d20+4=23 ; d8+3=10 ;
Thursday October 24th, 2019 10:03:27 AM
'Lil's spiritual hammer keeps bouncin' off the thing's shell. She moves up into position behind Grindar and stabs with Maya around'im, piercing the beetle's shell!

Move: Step forward
Standard: Hit AC 23 for 10 damage

Spiritual hammer hits AC 13 - Miss

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=19 ; d2+4=5 ; d20+5=13 ;
Thursday October 24th, 2019 11:46:14 AM
Bigby and wolfgang moves to j7 and attacks. 19 attack. 5dmg. Wolfgang bites the beast. att: 13

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d20+8=11 ;
Thursday October 24th, 2019 2:10:33 PM
Grindar finishes his movement to be near the beetle and connects with a powerful strike.

Sol snaps off another ray of frost but this time it goes wide.

Lil’s spiritual hammer bounces off the hard shell of the creature but her own strike lands true.

Bigby and wolfgang close the distance and Bigby lands an attack as the wolfs jaws fail to find purchase.

The beetle is quite wounded but is not a master strategist, or even that self aware, so it does not give ground it simply attacks back at grinder. One of its mandibles must have been damage as its bite is quite a bit off target. {Hit Grindar: 11}

The grass behind the beetle stirs quickly as something moves quickly from east to west. Further out you can just make out another disturbance in the grass moving at about the same speed as the first but a little behind.

Beetle AC: 17/9/17 HP: -28

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=20 ; d3=3 ;
Thursday October 24th, 2019 4:44:51 PM
Sol flings another Ray of Frost, (Hit, 3 damage)

"Did anybody else see that movement?!?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 d20=13 ; d20=15 ; d8=1 ; d8=4 ;
Thursday October 24th, 2019 5:36:43 PM
"I'm not liking the way this looks!", Grindar says as he lets loose a full round attack, on the beetle.

Primary Hand
13+9-2= 20 for 1+4= 5 damage

Off Hand
15+9-2= 22 for 4+4= 8 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=6 ;
Thursday October 24th, 2019 8:20:30 PM
Caelwyn winces as the beets hits Grindar - that thing packs a punch. He holds his ground just on this side of the blade grass and stabs a the creature again. "Maybe we can scare the second one off if we kill the first one..." But again, his stab glances off the creatures armor.

Attack 6

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=24 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+5=9 ; d2+4=5 ; d2+4=6 ;
Thursday October 24th, 2019 10:51:22 PM
"dig deep for that fight...more's a coming." claw 24/5 dmg, claw 24/6 dmg, bite 9. [i]if the thing is dead will ready attack for the next one moving through the grass.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=16 ;
Friday October 25th, 2019 10:24:30 AM
*I think the 11 on the DM's post was to hit Grindar, not the damage he took.

'Lil watches as Grindar beats the bug down. Hopefully he killed it. Her own spiritual hammer didn't do much (hit AC 16).

Assuming the thing's dead, she casts a bull's strength on 'erself to get ready for the fight to come.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Friday October 25th, 2019 1:31:52 PM
Sol connects with another ray of frosts and questions if the others saw the movement.

Caelwyn attacks again but his weapon cannot get through the carapace of the bug.

Lil’s spiritual hammer fails to connect.

Bigby calls to the others that more may be coming and connects with multiple attacks.

Grindar, like Bigby, connects with two attacks.

Sols ice made a satisfying cracking sound as it connected and the other attacks shattered the carapace ending the threat of the giant beetle.

Behind this oh so epic battle movement can still be seen, almost like a mass of bugs are on the move disturbing the grass. Seconds pass as the party waits then a minute then two and nothing moves closer to you though threw sound and motion you can see that more things are moving past every twenty or thirty seconds. Blade grass on one side and a veritable expressway of beetles on the other the party catches its breath and has a choice of what to do. Fight more beetles? Go east around the blade grass? Go west around the bladegrass? Go though the blade grass? Grow wings and fly?

240xp each!

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday October 25th, 2019 6:13:04 PM
Sol looks at the beetles.

"I would suggest avoiding these creatures if possible... we would do better not to anger them."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday October 25th, 2019 10:55:46 PM
Caelwyn agrees. "Best to avoid these if possible...let's go west and get around them!"

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Sunday October 27th, 2019 4:38:40 PM
'Lil thought the bugs were charging out. If not, she wouldn't have cast bull's strength. Mind if I ret-con it, Mr. DM?

***

"Yea, I guess we should avoid just chargin' at the bugs." She'll follow whichever direction the party chooses.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Sunday October 27th, 2019 6:50:26 PM
Bigby flaps his arms as if to fly away. "that wont work." Bigby looks at everyone else as if to see who's going to run first. can't be the first one to leave, but second works just fine.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29
Monday October 28th, 2019 5:25:22 AM
Since no one other than Caelwyn has suggested any other direction, Grindar says, "West it is than" and starts moving west hopefully away from the beetles.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Monday October 28th, 2019 9:48:40 AM
{ooc: Sorry Lil, I had meant to say you did not cast the spell or give you the option}

After some discussion the group decides that engaging with the beetles migrating across the Sargrass Plains. They head to the west to move along the edge of the blade grass. There are a few moments where they think they are around only to have the bladegrass come back having only shifted its area for a moment here and there.

While traveling you occasionally see small mice scurrying this way and that, in and out of the bladegrass. Clearly their small size gives them access to the more direct routs.

Know Nature: 12 Highlight to display spoiler: { Watching the mice move, and other small animals, you realize that the beetles are probably working as an instinctual pack to force the small prey animals in one direction for easier hunting. Pretty advanced for insects, possibly a result of living in such a harsh environment. }

Finally, after a couple hours of difficult travel, the bladegrass growth area comes to an end and you can move around it. The day is growing long as you mange to work to the far side of the bladgrass where you find another anomaly. A small area, probably fifteen feet wide, after he blade grass has now Sargrass of any kind growing. The day is long as you have a place to rest easily though you will have a few hours of downtime before dark.

Either way you know you are getting closer and only have a day or two of travel remaining.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Monday October 28th, 2019 12:42:34 PM
"Time ta camp, yea? Good." 'Lil removes Ramona from her back and plops her down. "I love'er, but she's a heavy one."

She don't think anyone's hurt, but she'll channel energy to top off anyone who is.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=20 ; d20+4=11 ;
Monday October 28th, 2019 5:49:31 PM
(knowledge nature 11)

Grindar nods his agreement with 'Lil, and helps get camp set up. With camp is set up, Grindar decides to go hunting/gathering to add some meat and maybe some fresh wild vegetables to the meal. (Survival 20) He asks Bigby and whom ever else that may which to go, if they would like to join him in the hunt/foraging.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday October 28th, 2019 6:01:21 PM
Sol sits down, and does what little he's capable of doing to help set up camp, once Grindar and anyone else who goes out hunting returns, he will pose a question to the group.

"How did you end up in Hook City?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=12 ; d3=2 ; d20+10=17 ;
Monday October 28th, 2019 8:02:20 PM
knowledge nature 12. "these beetles have very instinctual pact tactics. Like coraling their prey. On that note, the hunt is on." Bigby nods to Grindar This guy gets me. and heads out with him. survival to get something to eat 17. Throws whatever he catches on the fire. "Let's eat."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=22 ;
Monday October 28th, 2019 10:14:53 PM
Caelwyn leaves the hunting to the experts, and instead focuses on setting up camp and then keeping watch. (Perception: Nat 20)

He also responds to Sol's question. "I heard there was trouble in these lands, and I figured Domi might use me to end the great threat of the Sargrass. I arrived a bit late for that, however, but I was in Hook City regardless."

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Tuesday October 29th, 2019 1:05:04 PM
Lil declares it time to camp and plops down Ramona before channeling some spiritual energy to close any nicks and scrapes from the grass,

Grindar and Bigby both head out hunting.

Sol does what he can to set up the camp.

Caelwyn leaves the hunting to others and instead focuses on the camp and keeping watch. He is feeling particularly sharp eyed today and notices every rustle in the grass and passing small creature. Fortunately nothing appears to be coming to try and make a meal of them or enjoy the small grass free area.

The hunters return and, working together, come back with the fixings for a fine meal. Bigby comes back with two large squirrel like animals, they are squirrel like due to the extra set of legs that most squirrels do not have. Grindar returns also bearing on of the not squirrels along with a portion of thick roots that can help to create a nice stew or work as roast vegetables.

As cooking is getting underway Sol directs the conversation asking how people ended up in Hook City.

Caelwyn is first to respond “"I heard there was trouble in these lands, and I figured Domi might use me to end the great threat of the Sargrass. I arrived a bit late for that, however, but I was in Hook City regardless."

Taking your time as you chat you make a passible dinner and have a fairly relaxing night of respite.

The morning will come without incident.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday October 29th, 2019 2:10:17 PM
'Lil stretches as she wakes. "'Bout time this place let us get some sleep, eh?" She pokes around the campfire, seeing if any of last night's haul is still around to eat.

"Anyway, let's get movin', eh?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=23 ;
Tuesday October 29th, 2019 6:03:10 PM
Grindar answers Sol's question, "As you know, I didn't travel with you here. Actually I'm from a small town in the Culverwood Forest, not far from the Emerald Kingdom, which is on the northern continent. when I heard tales of the Sargrass returning after the battle with the Sarr, I decided I wanted to check out the place for my self, so I asked our towns most powerful wizard if he would be willing to teleport me here. I believe he said he would have to use greater teleport, but since he and my father are great friends, he teleported me here. Of course I appeared right in the middle of a village of halfling who wanted to eat me, and the rest you know".

In the morning, Grindar helps tear down camp, and than takes his place at the head of the party acting as a scout. (perception 23)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday October 29th, 2019 6:17:55 PM
Sol gets up lazily until pushed by the others to awaken more quickly. He then gets his belongings together before heading out, following the rest of the part.

"I am very excited to see what we can do with this druidwood once we have procured a goodly sized amount. It seems to have some very amazing properties."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday October 29th, 2019 10:50:14 PM
"Finding this wood will be the easy part...transporting it is still my chief concern at this point." Caelwyn is hopeful, but a bit unsure of what they will find ahead.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday October 29th, 2019 11:36:00 PM
"hook city, " Bigby says aloud. "It all seems so long ago. We came there to look for adventure, which I think we found, and to look for friends..." Bigby considers for a moment some of the friends they had lost along the way and feels some sadness, but Bigby then looks around at his party and smiles, "which I think we found as well." He listens to the other stories and then prepares for their journey. "as for the druidwood, a way shall present itself. I'm certain we will figure something out."

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d20=6 ;
Wednesday October 30th, 2019 11:22:46 AM
Bigby shares a little about his journey and is glad that he found new friends.

Grindar also shares a synopsis of his background with the group over the campfire.

Lil is anxious to get moving in the morning.

Sol is excited about the druidwood and its properties.

Caelwyn is concerned about transporting it despite being hopeful as to what they will find ahead.

Rested and ready the groups starts off on their journey yet again. The day comes and goes leading to the next without incident. What ever caused the migration of the beetles has either passed or you are out of the territory as you do not see any major disturbances in the grass as you go. Really, it is quite a peaceful trip and probably a good bonding period for the group which is smaller then it began.

Near the end of the second day since the beetle kerfuffle the landscape changes a bit again. A area clear of the Sargrass is directly ahead in what appears to be a box canyon. The top of a lone twisted and ancient tree can be seen in the middle of the canyon. The walls on each side and the back are roughly twenty feet tall and the contours would appear to be from long gone water wear.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday October 30th, 2019 11:47:11 AM
"Yea, I ain't good with walkin' down the middle of a canyon. That's how they getcha." She looks around. Can they approach the tree from the top of said canyon? Would they need to climb anything difficult?

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=14 ; d20+10=26 ;
Wednesday October 30th, 2019 5:24:08 PM
Grindar will investigate the canyon walls looking for a safeish path down for him and his friends. survival 14, perception 26

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday October 30th, 2019 7:48:20 PM
Sol looks at it, and nods at Lil's words.

"I agree it seems too secluded to not have something strange going on."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=14 ;
Wednesday October 30th, 2019 7:54:46 PM
Caelwyn frowns as he studies the terrain. "Perfect place for an ambush...I agree, some way around would be preferable. Otherwise, we may have to set a trap of our own..."

Perception 14

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday October 31st, 2019 11:24:19 AM
"it's probably a trap. It's kind of always a trap. This whole place is a giant trap. But what choice do we have. We need that wood." Follows Grindars lead.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Thursday October 31st, 2019 4:02:01 PM
Lil announces that she is not walking down the middle of a canyon.

Sol agrees with Lil thinking it is so secluded to think something unusual is would not be going on.

Bigby states it is probably a trap and that this whole place is a giant try but what choice do they have.

Caelwyn agrees that it is the perfect place for an ambush and would like to find a way around.

Grindar investigates, aloing with the others, away down that do not require walking down the middle of the path.

After about twenty minutes of looking about, under hot sun on a cloudless day, Grindar manages to find a place that can be climbed down with relative ease. {ooc: relative ease being a DC5 climb check} There are enough places where rocks are rough to provide handholds.

As you decide what to do a shadow of a cloud passes over for no more then half a second. By the time you look up any cloud is gone and the day is again bright. Maybe it wasn’t a cloud? Ahh a world with magic can do odd things cant it.

As the darkness / cloud passes there is a caw and a large black rave is sitting on the branch of the tree, head cocked, looking at the group. It briefly rustles its feathers before settling down. Naturally no bird was seen flying in prior to this moment.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20=12 ; d20+3=14 ;
Thursday October 31st, 2019 5:09:41 PM
In spite of the fact that he's pretty certain the ravens appearance is magical, Grindar feels drawn to the bird, He makes the climb down safely (Climb 12), than carefully approaches the raven all the while talking to it in soothing tones, and saying things like, "Such a lovely bird, what a pretty bird, you're a nice bird aren't you", He's not sure if it understands him, but he's trying to keep it calm, so as to befriend it. (Wild Empathy 14)

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday October 31st, 2019 5:29:33 PM
'Lil elbows Sol and whispers (loudly), "Hey, why's Grindar talkin' to that bird?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday October 31st, 2019 6:23:55 PM
"what's weird about that? I talk to wolves. Maybe we should call him bird man now."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20-1=19 ;
Thursday October 31st, 2019 6:53:51 PM
Sol, out of breath from the relatively simple climb, takes a few deep breaths.

"I... think... wooo... that he believes the... bird... has something... to do... with the... shadow that flew... over us."

He takes a few deep breaths.

"Wow climbing is not my strong suit... Corbin can you speak to the raven on our behalf and translate for us?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday October 31st, 2019 11:37:56 PM
Caelwyn stares hard at the raven. "Yes, clearly this is more than it appears...but is it friendly, or not? Perhaps Corbin can tell us..."

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Friday November 1st, 2019 2:06:54 PM
Lil elbows Sol to comment that Grindar is talking to a bird. {ooc: Did you climb down?}

Bigby is not sure what is weird about talking to a bird. {ooc: Did you climb down?}

Sol makes it to the bottom out of breath. He suggests that Corbin might be able to speak to the raven.

Caelwyn agrees that it is more then it appears and likes the idea of Corbin talking to it.

Grindar makes it down an starts talking to the bird. Such a lovely bird, what a pretty bird, you're a nice bird aren't you"

The bird cocks its head as Grindar speaks and flaps to the ground, next to the tree a ways back from Grindar. As it gets close to the ground it transforms into an older elf with long green hair who is wearing lose fitting leathers. The elf looks at you.

“Nice? Sometimes. Who are you and why are you in our home.”

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+2=20 ; d20+9=26 ;
Friday November 1st, 2019 3:09:52 PM
'Lil gasps as the bird turns into an elf, then chuckles at Grindar's predicament.

Then stops. She doubts the druid is gonna be happy about them taking that wood. This requires diplomacy. She sighs a bit and starts clambering down towards Grindar and the bird-elf. She ain't no climber, but she makes an impressive effort (climb: 20).

"Neat trick, mister. I'm 'Lil, the animal lover here is Grindar, Son of Grindor, wielder of Cyrchwr Mawr. We're here try'na see if there's a way to gather druid wood ta use it ta help rebuild Rattledam." She looks towards the tree. "...but if that's all there is, we sure as heck ain't gonna go choppin' it down." A frown crosses her face. "Pity. Woulda been a lot faster to swoosh around on a boat instead of troddin' through grass to get anywhere. Unless maybe you know something we don't?" She realizes what she said. "I mean, obviously you know a whole bunch we don't. Maybe somethin' about harvesting druid wood in a way what won't do any real harm?"

Diplomacy: 26

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday November 1st, 2019 9:17:54 PM
Caelwyn had a speech ready to go, but allows Lil to take this one. It sounded pretty good to him, anyway, so he simply waits to see how the elf will respond, making no threatening motions or raising his weapons.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday November 1st, 2019 9:35:33 PM
Sol just shuts up. Diplomacy wasn't his strong suit, and Lil was pretty eloquent, he simply waits and watches for anything else going on that he may need to pay attention to.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Saturday November 2nd, 2019 1:35:51 PM
OOC... Yes Grindar climbed down with a 12 climb check roll

Grindar is left speechless as the raven changes into an elf, as such, he has little to say, leaving the talking to 'Lil for the moment.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+2=16 ;
Saturday November 2nd, 2019 4:04:09 PM
Bigby climbs down as well and lets the experts talk. climb 16

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Monday November 4th, 2019 9:02:16 AM
Grindar is left speechless as the raven changes into an elf.

Lil, amused by the situation Grindar is in suddenly becomes the face of the party. "Neat trick, mister. I'm 'Lil, the animal lover here is Grindar, Son of Grindor, wielder of Cyrchwr Mawr. We're here try'na see if there's a way to gather druid wood ta use it ta help rebuild Rattledam…. but if that's all there is, we sure as heck ain't gonna go choppin' it down. Pity. Woulda been a lot faster to swoosh around on a boat instead of troddin' through grass to get anywhere. Unless maybe you know something we don't? I mean, obviously you know a whole bunch we don't. Maybe somethin' about harvesting druid wood in a way what won't do any real harm?"

Caelwyn had a speech prepared but finds that he is fine with what Lil has said.

Sol is not a diplomat and stays quiet.

Bigby finishes the climb down and lets the experts talk.

The elfs forehead furrows at Lil, clearly he was not prepared for the onslaught of words the young woman let fly. At the mention of chopping druid wood one eyebrow raises and a slight smile just touches his lips when it is pointed out that he may no more then the newcomers. When Lil’s speech ends the elf is quiet for a moment just staring at her and the party, while he might normally be offended by all of this there is an undeniable charm to the words.

As the elf starts speaking his voice is flat. “Druid wood to help Rattledam? Are you looking for the aid of a druid of the Sargrass or just the wood? What form of aid are you looking for that it would bring you all the way here, to the painstakingly cleared canyon that Vanja and I have kept for so long, in search of wood. What…..” For the last question there is passion in the elfs voice. “Lil the Animal Lover what are the intentions of you outsiders in the Sargrass?”

He looks to each of the party members as he speaks but the last question is clearly directed to Lil.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Monday November 4th, 2019 2:19:59 PM
"Well, we came 'ere for the wood, but I sure as heck ain't gonna overlook how much an honest to goodness druid a' the Sargrass could help folks." She stops to gather her thoughts.

"Honestly dude, we're kinda seat of our pantsing this whole thing. I thought we should go get more folks from Hook City to help build out New Rattledam first, but these loveable lunkheads here thought druid wood would help more." She shrugs. "Still think they're all daft, but they're all just so cute, ya know? And I couldn't just go and let my dudes tromp through this place by themselves cause I don't agree with'em.

"What I do know is that people is gonna try and settle new land anytime they can, but this place has tried real hard to kill us. I ain't so sure the best thing I can do for folks is packing them all up and tellin'em to go back to where they came from before bugs or frog-bunnies try and eat'em. Don't think they'd listen, though, so I guess I'd say my intentions is tryin'a keep them folks alive." She frowns a bit. "Can't help this feelin' that we shouldn't be here, though. Like this place ain't meant for the civilized folk that are tryin'a make it a home."

She shakes her head and smiles. "But, we're here, so may as well make the best of it." She looks around. "This is a nice canyon ya got here, by the way. It's nice to be able to walk about without grass tryin'a slow you down."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday November 4th, 2019 5:42:19 PM
Grindar is more than a little impressed with how Lil' is handling herself in the conversation. He is glad that someone with a little more charisma is taking the reigns, being wise enough to know his weakness as well as his strengths.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday November 4th, 2019 5:55:50 PM
Sol simply nods, and agrees with Lil, backing her up with his body language. He is more than happy to let her continue negotiating on their behalf.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday November 4th, 2019 9:12:23 PM
Bigby is about to say something but then hears 'Lil speak up and then he stops. He hears the word druid and nods, but feels 'Lil's got it. He just points to 'Lil as she speaks.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Tuesday November 5th, 2019 11:59:33 AM
300xp each for finding the druid!

Grindar is impressed and lets Lil continue to handel the conversation.

Sol nods along with Lil happy to let her continue.

Bigby is about to say something to hears Lil and stops.

Lil starts speaking for the party again. "Well, we came 'ere for the wood, but I sure as heck ain't gonna overlook how much an honest to goodness druid a' the Sargrass could help folks." but stops to gather her thoughts. She continues admitting they are making things up as they go along and that her companions thought Druid Wood would help. She talks about people will want to settle new lands and though they might be misguided she is helping keep them alive. Finally she complements the canyon after suggesting that the Sargrass is not meant for people.

The druid listens and gives a very small nod as Lil speaks. "Lil, Friend of Animals, you do you people well with your thoughtfulness of civilizations role in the Sargrass. My fellow druids, ummm, debate this very topic. It is party of why Vanha and I have chosen this spot to make our home. With much work we have push the Sargrass back to make, as you say, a nice canyon."

He turns and walks back closer to the tree clearly expecting you to follow. As he moves he continues to talk. "So you want to help keep ‘folks’ alive Lil, Frind of Animals, I like that. Do your quiet friends think the same? This is a hard place and one you might not be meant to be here but you stay for them? I wonder." he looks to Bigby "You are new are you not? What is your impression? Do you wonder why my people, the Druid of the Sargrass, are so deserving in our minds?" He pauses looking at each of you. "The immortal power’s representation has been replaced by three. Do you think of them? Warper, Weaver and Walker?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday November 5th, 2019 5:38:49 PM
Grindar sheepishly answers the question, "I'll be honest, I haven't really given much thought about the different aspects of the Sarr. Don't get me wrong I respect them and all, only a fool wouldn't, it's just that I know so little about them, and I've served Pantheon since I was a lad, but I'm open to being educated".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday November 5th, 2019 5:44:20 PM
Bigby points at himself and has a puzzled look. "ahem..." He considers what an impression of himself would be. Maybe a snarl of his teeth and showing of his claws and then it hits him...impression like thought. Ahhhhh. "well, don't know I suppose we don't want to harm the Sargrass. We just want to live amongst it and survive as well. And the surviving part has been tough on our town, wo here we are trying to help our tribe survive. As for the warper weaver and walker. I think we met two of them. Can you help us. One druid to another?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday November 5th, 2019 7:22:43 PM
Sol nods with regards to both what Grindar and Bigby say.

"I agree, we wish to show respect to them, and work alongside them. We do not wish to offend them or do them harm, but I know very little about them myself."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday November 5th, 2019 10:38:53 PM
"We have met some of the aspects of the Sargrass, we believe" Caelwyn replies. "I for one would like to know more about them - we wish to respect them in all ways we can while we are here."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday November 6th, 2019 2:30:14 PM
'Lil gets the feelin' this dude wants to hear from everyone else, she she don't say much. When asked about the warper/weaver/walker, she has an opinion, though.

"Lotta good folks back home died when the warper dudes kicked off all that bloodgrass mess. Anyone who thinks that kinda thing is the way to go ain't right in my book. Change ain't supposed to happen that fast. I know they talk about evolution and survival of the fittest, but as far as I can see that's like cheerin' on cancer cause it grows faster than what it's growin' on.

"Walker and weaver...eh, room for both. Sargrass is a big place."

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Wednesday November 6th, 2019 3:52:31 PM
Grindar admits he has not thought much about the Sar immortal powers but is open to education.

Bigby is puzzled b the questions before realizing what is being asked. Hs states he wans to live among the grasses and survive.

Sol agrees that they want to show respect and work alongside but he knows little as well.

Caelwyn admits they have met some of the aspects, in a way, and that he would like to know more about them.

Lil lets her feelings be known ending with the Sargrass is a big place.

Biel nods his head and motions for the group to relax saying simply there is no threat here at present. He reaches into a small bag on his hip and pulls out fresh fruit which he offers to the group. Clearly the bag is some sort of extradimensional space as it was not big or lumpy enough to contain the fruit which is being offered.

"Lil, Friend of Animals, you are confusing the Warper-sar with the Sarr that many battled. These new powers are elements of the Sarr, or Sargrass, not a left over part. They, like all powers, look for support and the like mined. What you say, live and let live so to speak, is of course the real way of the Wold."

He nods and speaks some about each Sar. " The Sarr powers are aspects of the original Sarr. The Warper-Sar represents the evoluntionist faction of the Sarr.” this is said dierectly to Bigby "It is thought he is of influence on your people, the Beastfolk. The Weaver sar represents the restorationists factions of the Plains. Those who want to return things as they were before the Sargrass left the plain. The Walker-Sar represents preservation of what we have, I am not sure what if any change that power supports.”

He pauses and looks at each of you. "My brother druids have had conflict over the three aspects that came from one. If you seek the help of the druids it is important to know some and respect the powers.”

"You do not need to answer immediately, think on it. You are safe here and the day is passing quickly. I can tell you feel pressure to act quickly, make things happen, find druid wood and what not. Take a moment and think about what the wood is for, what roll it and your people will play in the Sargrass.”

He looks about. "I know you cannot speak for all but you can guide. I can send you to my brothers but I need to know your hearts.”

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday November 6th, 2019 6:02:02 PM
Sol nods and listens closely, taking a piece of fruit when offered, and showing great interest in the bag.

"Thank you for the information..."

He says with his mouthful of fruit almost like he's not paying attention, however it's clear he's writing everything down in his notebook.

"I believe we can take some time to think on our plans. I have a few ideas, but I would appreciate the opportunity to meditate on the question, and discuss it with my fellows."

With that he looks to the group, waiting to see how they feel and what they would want to do.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday November 6th, 2019 6:12:37 PM
Grindar thinks for a moment, than says, "Sir, since my desire is to see Rattledam, as well as the rest of the Sargrass's old settlements restored, I guess, by default I would side with the Weaver Sarr"

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday November 7th, 2019 10:58:36 AM
"Am I, though?" 'Lil responds to the druid's statement about the Warper-sar. "And I mean that as a question, not a challenge. It still seems to me they're big on change for the sake'a change. Just don't sit well with me. Don't mean I see'em as evil or a force to be dealt with, but the whole philosophy just isn't my cup'a whiskey."

She huddles with her dudes. "Think you mean Walker-sar there, Grindar. Weaver wants to make the plains a big forest again...I think. They wanna restore what the Sargrass overtook. That seems kinda sore-loserish to me, though."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday November 7th, 2019 11:52:33 AM
Bigby nods and agrees to sol's thought.

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Thursday November 7th, 2019 7:43:01 PM
Grindar speaks up first. Respectfully he explains that his desire is to see Rattledam as well as the rest of the Sargrass old settlements restored which he thinks aligns him with the Weaver-Sarr

Sol takes in the information and thinks that should discuss the question as a group.

Bigby nods and agrees with Sol’s thoughts.

Lil questions the comments of the druid, not as a challenge, saying their philosophy is not her cup of whisky and suggests that the group should discuss.

Beil nods at the comments of the team and is in no way feeling challenged by Lil’s comments. You actually get the idea that this solitary druid is enjoying the conversation. As the group talks among themselves he moves to the tree and places his hand on it possible in thought though he also may be communicating with it.

After a minute or two of silent touching the his druid tree he turns back. He nodes to Bigby saying that he is sure that what he is about to say is already known to him, at least on some level.

“You of course know that the druids of the Sargrass were in tune with the Sarr as we are attuned to the last which it embodied. With three aspects our drudic circle is not the cohesive whole it once was. This is why I ask questions.” he looks at his canyon “I would think that the amount of work we have put in to make this area free of the grasses would tell you that we are no aligned with the other druids in the area. If we were we would not be alone.”

“Grindar Son of Grindor, you speak of the restoration aspect most closely I think. You wish the Sargrass to be what it was and not evolve it into yet another form. You do not seek to change its nature it would seem?”

He nods to the his companion the druid tree. “She would talk with you, any of you, if you place your hand on her trunk. You have our permission if you are willing.”

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday November 7th, 2019 9:02:53 PM
Caelwyn nods understandingly as the druid mentions his canyon. "In all honesty, I completely understand your attempts to be rid of the overwhelming grasses - I am sympathetic to that view, for sure. Thank you for your permission, I believe it would be worth our while to see what your companion has to say..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday November 8th, 2019 5:28:46 AM
"Well Sir, as a Ranger I can see the beauty of the wilds, and even the grasses have their place, but I also see the value in civilization, and a relatively safe society. That is why I wish to see the Sargrass restored, so the people who will come, even if we tell them to stay away, will find a relatively safe place to call home and raise families".

After sharing his thoughts, Grindar reaches our to touch the tree.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday November 8th, 2019 10:38:24 AM
"Wait, the tree can talk? I gotta see this."

'Lil quickly makes her way to the tree and places her palm against the trunk. "Um, hello? Miss tree? Am I doing this right?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday November 8th, 2019 11:40:40 AM
Bigby walks forward and places hands on tree. "Hello tree. I'd like to order some druid wood please." Wolfgang walks over and smells the tree and then lifts his leg and... Bigby gives Wolfgang a stern look and says to him, "not this one Wolfgang." Wolfgang puts his leg down and looks disappointed.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday November 8th, 2019 5:42:52 PM
Sol suddenly smiles brightly and widely at the prospect of being able to talk to the tree and moves over, as respectfully as his excitement will allow, before placing a hand delicately on the tree, and thinking.

Hello? Can you understand me?

GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off!
Friday November 8th, 2019 6:02:13 PM
Images fill the mind of all who touch the tree moving very fast, possible backwards, at a rate that the mind can barely comphrend. The images slow and jump once, twice and settle on a view over the shoulder of a large Minotaur. Around him are the remains of a battle a halfling wizard is flying to one side while a human, dressed in the manner of a barbarian, is seen his chest heaving as he recovers. Others heroes can be seen. After a moment a satyre is seen speaking but not heard, there is no sound in this vision. Suddenly you FEEL like you are in the vision.

The satyre rises several inches off the ground as golden light appears and coalesces into a portal above the Keepers heads. A divine force lifts the group into the air and pulls all those near into the portal. At first you fell you are falling up and then the odd sensation of movement but non-directional. Your mind says you are moving, very fast, but your inner ear calls your mind a liar. Still trying to process what is happening your minds tell you you are moving up and then left and then up and down. Your stomachs clenches but you somehow feel at peace. As it is only a vision you are ok but you know if you had been there there is a large chance you would be ill.

Still moving, maybe, you have a perspective now outside of time and space to see a spectacular sight. It appears and entire land mass is transitioning from the Valleys of Twilight back to the Wold. The eternal Lady Maap, Queen of the Fey, rule of the Vales of Twilight, is far off guiding the movement of the land mass between domains.

The world stops you stand looking over the same group a form, humanoid but made of blood red sargrass can be seen a mile off. The form is enormous, bigger then most any living thing you had heard of and turns into a vine/grass/plant thing nearly one hundred and fifty feet wide and four thousand feet tall.

Around it you see other groups and silent witness the Battle of the Sarr and the return of the Sargrass.

The battle ends. Finally, there is a huge writhing as three final gigantic creatures emerge from the defeated Sarr. They are so large -- a hundred or two hundred feet high -- that in emerging they rip the Sarr asunder! These three figures seem familiar to those who encountered images when you broke the crstals that had infected your homelands: they are the mysterious figures, here born as the new powers of the Sargrass Plains.

One with the oak leaf circlet transforms into a gigantic treant. One on stilts transforms into the mother of all Sarg moths. One with wings transforms into a series of flickering bestial shapes.

They speak together in unison. Each of the Powers says a different word when there is a choice in brackets.

“WE ARE THE SARR [REBORN/BORN/EVOLVED]! WE THANK YOU, HEROES OF THE WOLD, FOR YOUR PART IN BRINGING THE PLAINS BACK TO THE WOLD!”

“WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR YOUR ROLE IN [ENDING/TAMING/CURING] THE [THREAT/CHALLENGE/DANGER] OF THE BLOODGRASS.”

“WE HAVE [CONCEDED/AGREED/VOWED] THAT WE MUST NOT WAR AMONG OURSELVES, FOR THAT WOULD DESTROY OUR HOME FOREVER.”

The images fade and color takes its place coming in and out, emotions, communication you know what the tree is saying. This is what happened to bring the Sargrass back. This is where the powers came from. You impression that sharing this was a very large deal for Vanja as it is the most important event in the Sargrass and its return.

The images stop and your normal site returns. It is very dark. Clearly this took more time then it felt. Biel speaks quietly.

“Ahh you where showing the past, I did not know that Vanja would start there. Think on this and discuss. Tomorrow Vanja and I will contribute more, tell a new story. The story of the Bloodboil.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday November 8th, 2019 11:37:00 PM
Caelwyn is amazed by the visions. "This is what I had hoped to find when I first came here...what I heard the great threat to the Wold was. But the Bloodboil is new to me...we will certainly discuss this, and I look forward to hearing more."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Saturday November 9th, 2019 3:17:59 PM
'Lil's kinda always wished she coulda been there. A fight that epic, and she was home makin' sure ma's dinner wasn't just rum. What a waste. It's part of the reason she's here.

She does realize for the first time that the Weaver and Walker Sarr powers didn't consider Warper Sarr to be a threat. She wonders why that didn't occur to her before.

Before heading off, she leaves her hand on Vanja. "Thanks for the history lesson, Vanja. I'll see ya tomorrow!" Then she turns to Biel. "And thank you too, dude. I've got some new stuff to think about before tomorrow's story. I ain't heard that one yet!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Sunday November 10th, 2019 12:52:49 PM
Grindar ponders the vision , but keeps his thoughts to himself. I did often wonder what the most famous battle of recent times looked like, but he would have never guessed he would someday see it for himself. He thanks Vanja and says, “I look forward to what you would show us tomorrow”.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday November 11th, 2019 6:27:21 PM
"Are these the heros that the kids were playing with? Hmmm..." Bigby feels tired. Off to bed I suppose.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday November 11th, 2019 6:38:08 PM
Sol immediately smiles widely and starts shaking slightly with excitement, his normal cheery but relatively calm self goes out the window and gives way to what can only be described like an excitable puppy.

"That was the single most impressive thing I have ever experienced! That was amazing! I will need to note all this down in my journal... I mean... to actually be able to witness an historical event like that... we are privileged indeed."

Boxed Set

DM Steve -- "We will certainly discuss this, and I look forward to hearing more."
Monday November 11th, 2019 11:01:34 PM
The party settles down for the night, talking amongst themselves, after "seeing" the story of the return of the Sargrass as told by Vanja. Biel leaves you in a clear part of the gulch, free of the grass for the first night in about two weeks. Biel has not prohibited you from exploring his canyon, but he also has not invited you to do so. With night coming on swiftly, there is not time to see much now.

Whether you set up watches or no, the night passes uneventfully.

In the morning, you wake early. You do not see Biel. Vanja stands where she has been, swaying gently in a light breeze in the middle of her clearing.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=19 ;
Tuesday November 12th, 2019 6:00:58 AM
Grindar rises with the dawn and decides go go hunting/foraging. He asks Bigby and the others if they would like to join him in the hunt. (Survival 19) After the hunt/ foraging expedition, regardless of it's success, he will make breakfast for his new family, and wait for their host to return before addressing Vanja again.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=18 ;
Tuesday November 12th, 2019 12:39:19 PM
Bigbys eyes widen at the word hunting. and he shakes his head up and down and is a little embarassed at how excited he is right now, but he just goes with it. "i'll go Grindar." survival 18.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday November 12th, 2019 1:30:50 PM
'Lil stretches as she wakes up, glad to not be staring up at grass for once.

"Morning, Vanja!" she says, loudly, when she stands. Either she just scared away Grindar's breakfast, or she flushed it out.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday November 12th, 2019 2:21:10 PM
Sol awakens last, having gone to sleep a little bit later, after writing all his experiences down in his journal, Lil's loud welcome is what eventually wakes him up, he drags himself out of his bedroll and begins packing it up.

"Good morning Vanja, how are you doing today?"

DM Steve -- "I'll go."
Tuesday November 12th, 2019 10:24:30 PM
Grindar rises with the dawn and decides go go hunting/foraging. After a successful hunting and foraging expedition, he makes breakfast for his new family.

Bigby goes with Grindar, contributing equally to the meal.

'Lil greets Vanja, then worries about scaring her companions' game.

Sol awakens last, at Lil's loud welcome to the tree. "Good morning Vanja, how are you doing today?"

Biel shows up around mid-morning. "Well, you've had time to consider your questions. I suppose we should begin."

"So, you are here looking for druid wood and perhaps the aid of a druid. 'Lil, Friend of Animals, you want to keep folks alive. You, little druid, want to live among the grasses and survive. You, Grindar, want to see Rattledam and the old Sargrass settlements restored. And scribe, Sol, you appear to want to know everything. Also, your other friend wanted to know more of the aspects of the Sargrass. You have all encountered the aspects of the Sarr, asking questions about what you want, and I have asked the same. You said you needed time to discuss it, but I doubt that you did much discussing during the morning hunt. So I will not expect an answer yet on what you think of Warper, Weaver and Walker. Let's find out instead what questions you have for me. Once you have asked any you have now, we can tell you the story of the bloodboil."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday November 13th, 2019 5:34:08 AM
"Sir", Grindar begins, I would like to know your views. I know you mentioned something about wanting a place away from the grasses, and so you maintain this canyon, but I would ask you: what is your true feelings, who do you align with?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday November 13th, 2019 10:42:58 AM
"How much animosity exists between them three aspects, anyway? I saw they all decided they need to work together and whatnot, but that don't mean they like each other."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday November 13th, 2019 12:54:08 PM
"What do the aspects want from us? Why do they keep approaching us? Do they want to help or harm us?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday November 13th, 2019 6:47:46 PM
Sol thinks.

"I think the more important question is how can we help the Aspects of the Sarr?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday November 13th, 2019 9:01:38 PM
Caelwyn echoes Lils question. "I wondered that as well...do the aspects of the Sargrass works together? Or are they hostile to one another? That would certainly complicate things for us, if that was the case..."

DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses
Wednesday November 13th, 2019 10:14:25 PM
Grindar begins, "I would like to know your views. What is your true feelings, who do you align with?"

'Lil asks, "How much animosity exists between them three aspects, anyway? I saw they all decided they need to work together and whatnot, but that don't mean they like each other."

Bigby adds, "What do the aspects want from us? Why do they keep approaching us? Do they want to help or harm us?"

Sol thinks before saying, "I think the more important question is how can we help the Aspects of the Sarr?"

Caelwyn echoes 'Lil's question. "Do the aspects of the Sargrass work together? Or are they hostile to one another?"

Biel thinks a while before answering. When he does, the conversation is a long one, with pauses and questions. Summarized, you gather:

As you have seen, the three aspects were born of one divided power. The long wait was as hard on the Sarr as it was on those of us who lived here. I don't pretend to know the mind of a power, but the mind of the Sarr became divided, reflecting the minds of the peoples here. Finally, the crisis with the bloodgrass resulted in a literal separation of the power into the Warper, Weaver, and Walker. They have different goals, but no aspect can attain its goal if the Sarr is destroyed in their struggles for dominance over each other.

When they divided, the three aspects realized that they cannot war among themselves. That has not made them less intent on their different goals. I think that they are trying to gather followers who will carry out the struggle for them. You have been approached several times. They will keep approaching until you choose a side. So do they want to help or harm you? That depends on what you consider helpful or harmful -- preservation, restoration, or change.

The druids of the Sargrass are famous for being restorationists. But we debate the wisdom of aligning with an aspect. Some have eagerly done so, others do not trust this change. You have not committed yet, although some of you have indicated preferences in the answers to my questions.

In time, Biel breaks off the conversation. "That brings us to the story of the Bloodboil, but I think we should have lunch first. While we eat, do you have any more questions?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday November 14th, 2019 5:44:44 AM
Grindar eats his lunch in peace, trying to wrap his head around all this, then asks, "Do you believe the 3 aspects are trying to obtain our allegiance, as in convert us to become their worshipers, or simply wish us to follow their agendas?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday November 14th, 2019 12:07:26 PM
"agendas...perhaps...or perhaps all of this is something bigger directing out future story." Bigby snaps out of his thought provoking theory, "or maybe its just an allegiance thing like you said."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday November 14th, 2019 4:44:45 PM
Sol shakes his head, indicating he has no further questions at this time, and eats his lunch quietly, weighing up the options, and what the Sarr wants and needs. He doesn't say anything at this time unless asked a direct question, he is clearly lost in thought.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday November 14th, 2019 9:03:48 PM
Caelwyn finds himself wishing that the Sargrass was a bit friendlier to the inhabitants...maybe with less, well, grass. "So the Warper is for preservation, the weaver is for restoration, and the walker is for change? What kind of change? And what does the weaver want to restore, exactly?"

DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses
Thursday November 14th, 2019 10:43:26 PM
Grindar eats his lunch in peace. "Do you believe the 3 aspects are trying to obtain our allegiance, as in convert us to become their worshipers, or simply wish us to follow their agendas?"

Bigby has a thought provoking theory, "agendas...perhaps...or perhaps all of this is something bigger directing out future story. or maybe its just an allegiance thing like you said."

Sol has no further questions at this time, and eats his lunch quietly.

Caelwyn finds himself wishing that the Sargrass was a bit friendlier to the inhabitants...maybe with less, well, grass. "So the Warper is for preservation, the weaver is for restoration, and the walker is for change? What kind of change? And what does the weaver want to restore, exactly?"

"Not exactly," Biel explains, "The Warper is for change. The Walker preserves the way things are. The Weaver restores the Sarr to the way it was before the grass. He's the one most druids follow."

Biel falls silent while the group eats. When everyone is done, he suggests that you all approach Vanja to learn the story of the Bloodboil.

As you make contact with the tree, you have visions like the previous time. You "see" events in your mind, even though you are still somewhat aware of events around you.

The party sees two sickly druid trees and feels a great evil about them. The party sees that the trees were once druid trees, but developed a rivalry that turned to hatred of each other. Somehow, they destroyed each other, remaining alive, but undead.

The party sees the nearby carcass of a flying Sargrass Moth. As the scene returns to the twisting trees, the party realizes that there is a Sargrass Moth carcass nearby. They see the moth flying and finding the twisting trees fighting with each other. As the trees fight, Sargrass surrounds them. They are no longer able to resist the grass, and are being overgrown by it. The moth lands, flattening the grass, and plunges its proboscus in the ground. Red fluid beings seeping out of the ground as the moth pulls away, but the moth keels over and stops moving.

The red fluid keeps seeping out and collects into a small pool, eventually growing into a pond. The pool reaches the roots of the twisting trees, and they start to heal. As the trees heal, the Sargrass around them wanes. Finally, there is a large clearing within the grasses. In the clearing are two healthy trees, the pond, and the carcass of the moth. As time passes, the carcass remains a carcass and the twisting trees slowly become healthier. But the trees have not regained the full vitality they once had when the vision stops.

When the vision ends, it is approaching evening. Biel tells the party that the pond is called Bloodboil, and that it keeps healing the twisting trees through mutation. He also explains that the moth is a rare sight and a holy one as it has never been devoured. "In the morning, we can talk over what you have seen. As to the aspects, I think they would accept worshippers or followers of their agendas. I know that there are some priests devoted to them."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday November 14th, 2019 11:19:48 PM
OOC: Wife had surgery and I thought I could post in time, but I guess not.

'Lil wakes from the vision with a shake, then listens to what Biel has to say. "Ya know I'm already a priest, right? I can't very well do any devoting to any other powers. I can say I prefer the ideals of the preservationists, which I guess I do, but I ain't about to start workin' towards the goals of no Power but my own. I'll think over what I saw, though."

When the druid's gone, she turns to her friends. "Dudes, I signed up to scope this place out and protect folks, not sign onto a holy nature war. I ain't likin' this."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday November 15th, 2019 5:43:35 AM
Grindar responds to 'Lil by saying, "While I do appreciate the history lesson, a history we should be aware of if we are going to continue living here, I tend to agree with you sister. That said, if fighting in a "holy nature war", as you call it, can lead to making the Sargrass a safer place, then we have to try to do what we can".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday November 15th, 2019 10:47:29 AM
"I agree there is something going on here that we need to be aware of. I'm thinking our choices will lead us one way or another however. But as you say there's no need for us to choose allegiance."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday November 15th, 2019 7:40:04 PM
Sol thinks for a moment.

"I am not sure we will get that luxury my friends. It seems that these three powers will want us to side with one of them, whether we wish to or not. In any case, each of them may assume we are working for a different one and act in a way we find counterproductive."

He sighs.

"But I agree a Holy War is not what we signed on for, but I fear it may be unavoidable."

DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses d20=9 ;
Friday November 15th, 2019 11:19:23 PM
'Lil wakes from the vision with a shake, then listens to what Biel has to say. "Ya know I'm already a priest, right? I can't very well do any devoting to any other powers." When the druid's gone, she turns to her friends. "Dudes, I signed up to scope this place out and protect folks, not sign onto a holy nature war. I ain't likin' this."

Grindar responds to 'Lil by saying, "While I do appreciate the history lesson, a history we should be aware of if we are going to continue living here, I tend to agree with you sister. That said, if fighting in a "holy nature war", as you call it, can lead to making the Sargrass a safer place, then we have to try to do what we can".

Bigby agrees. "I agree there is something going on here that we need to be aware of. I'm thinking our choices will lead us one way or another however. But as you say there's no need for us to choose allegiance."

Sol thinks for a moment. "I am not sure we will get that luxury my friends. It seems that these three powers will want us to side with one of them, whether we wish to or not. In any case, each of them may assume we are working for a different one and act in a way we find counterproductive. I agree a Holy War is not what we signed on for, but I fear it may be unavoidable."

Before Biel leaves the group to its own devices for the evening and night, he asks a few questions. "Who was good? Who was evil? Who was right? Who is deserving of life? In case you did not know it, the Weaver appears as a treant or half-elf with a wreath of oak leaves. The Walker appears as a sargmoth or a man on stilts. And the Warper is a beastman, usually with wings and bloodweed armor, and often changes shape. In any case, I will leave you to your discussions tonight, and tomorrow you will answer my questions and may try to persuade me to help you find my brethren. And you will also need to explain how you found me. Yes, I think I need to know that as well. At the moment I am inclined to tell you where to find them, but I should think on it more carefully first."

The night passes without event, and you wake early in the morning. This time you are not awake long before Biel appears. After you get ready to begin the day, he gives you the chance to state your case.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Sunday November 17th, 2019 10:09:24 PM
Caelwyn, in the previous night's discussions, had shared Lil's concerns. "We certainly do not want to be involved in a real conflict such as this. But at the same time, we ourselves would be bringing considerable change to the Sargrass by creating new sorts of settlement here...so, in a sense, isn't our side already chosen for us? We cannot support the Walker, for he simply wants the status quo to remain. And I am a bit unsure of the Warper, and what kind of change he wants...the Weaver, and a return to the old ways of the Sargrass, might be most to our advantage."

Caelwyn awakens, thinking to himself about how to explain their situation best to Biel...

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday November 18th, 2019 5:37:47 AM
"I tend to see things your way brother", Grindar says, agreeing with Caelwyn, "If we want Rattledam and the rest of the Sargrass's settlements to be restored to their former glory, or some resemblance there of, and the Sargrass to become a safer place for habitation, than going back to the good old days seems the most logical. Unless of course, the Warper Sarr actually wants to evolve this place into some sort of paradise for the habitation of the intelligent races, which doesn't seem to be his MO".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday November 18th, 2019 10:24:25 AM
Bigby nods his head. "this seems like one of those times where a decision leads to this and that. Like further consequences and such, which can be nerve racking and all. But it's hard to live life that way I say. I'll go with whatever you guys choose. Let's chose it and be done, and face the consequences that follow. We will face them together."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Monday November 18th, 2019 2:41:01 PM
"Hold on, folks. I ain't sure you're looking at this right.

"We got a whole bunch-a people who have lived in the Sargrass as it is now for a long, long time. I don't think anyone's alive what ain't immortal who remembers a time when the Sargrass wasn't the grass desert it is now.

"We really gonna work against all these cultures that's already here, just so a bunch'a dudes from Hook City can set up shop and start exploitin' the local resources? Ya'll don't really think that's a good idea, do ya?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday November 18th, 2019 5:33:33 PM
"I understand what you are saying 'Lil, and to be honest, I don't care if the Sargrass is a forest of trees, or a forest of grass, the problem I have with the Walker-Sarr is, I don't know how flexible he is. He says he wants everything left as it is, well that's all fine and good, except we want to tame parts of the plains, and make them a safe place to dwell, as well as, make travel safer. I simply don't know if that is something he is OK with, and without that knowledge, it's hard for me to see his side. I would be open to seeing his side if he was to let people know more clearly what he means by preserving things as they are".

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday November 18th, 2019 6:02:20 PM
Sol thinks, but doesn't say anything as the rest of the party weigh up their options, and give out their opinions.

"I perhaps think we should find out more about the Warper and the Weaver. I agree with Caelwyn, the Walker will be at odds with no matter what we choose to do. However the Warper and the Weaver both could potentially beneficial, if the Warper wishes to help turn the Sargrass into a liveable area he would be a good ally, possibly better than the Weaver, if Warper wishes to turn the Sargrass into a desolate grassland, then we should ally with the Weaver. But we need more data to make the determination."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday November 18th, 2019 10:06:30 PM
" I agree, we need more exact information, which might be difficult to obtain..."

DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses
Tuesday November 19th, 2019 12:00:58 AM
During the night, the party discusses their position. Caelwyn does not want to be involved in a struggle between powers, but doubts that the Walker will allow the group to change the Sargrass. Therefore he thinks they must support the Weaver. Grindar agrees, although he says there might be a slim chance the Warper-Sar wants to create a paradise. Bigby finds the choice nerve-wracking, but wants to be done with it. 'Lil says the Walker is the correct choice if they follow Caelwyn's logic. Caelwyn reiterates that the Walker might not like changes resulting from people moving in. Sol argues that the party needs more information, particularly about the Weaver and Warper. They might leave the place more livable than it is now. Caelwyn agrees.

All in all, the party has not reached an agreement by the time Biel returns with his questions.

"Have you considered the story of the Bloodboil? Who was good?" When the party isn't ready to answer him right away, he tries a different approach.

"Since you are looking for druid wood, you plan on seeking my more traditional brothers. They are a stiff-necked lot, and hate the story we told you yesterday because it calls their beliefs into question. But you have been in the Sar for a while. What cultures have you encountered, and how have they treated you?"

Sense motive DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Clearly, Biel is looking for an answer from you. The question that seems most important to him is what you think of the story of the Bloodboil. How you answer will influence how he helps you.} DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Biel would be surprised if you have been welcomed anywhere without first proving yourself.}

"The aspects argue with each other, but they also have a great deal in common."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+2=10 ;
Tuesday November 19th, 2019 5:47:33 AM
Sense Motive 10

Grindar tries to answer Biel by saying. "The story is a tragic one, yet very cryptic, but since there was a feeling of evil surrounding the trees before the moth arrived to intervene, I can't say the trees were good. I would like to say that the moth was the good one, but since the the trees never reached their full potential, and the only thing that keeps them alive is the pool which only does so through mutation, which I believe is why they never return fully to their former glory. I believe the moth had good intentions, but failed to fix the situation completely, instead creating more of a compromise, which seems to me more of a neutral thing to do. I guess I don't see a clear candidate for good in the story. I can be wrong, and often am, and would be open to a better explication".

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+10=17 ;
Tuesday November 19th, 2019 10:51:19 AM
Sense motive: 17

"I can't tell from that story if it's a real thing that happened, or some kinda allegory. What I hear is two evil, bickerin' trees got themselves killed bein' evil, then the Sargrass swooped in cause of it. Then this moth comes round and mucks it all up by artificially keepin' them alive.

"End result is two trees that you ain't said aren't evil anymore being kept alive and mutated, pushin' away some grass ain't no one said is evil.

"And that moth? I don't see what the fact that it ain't decayed means. What I do know is that a lotta evil's been done in the world trying to find a compromise between two things when one of'em's bad. If one side says they wanna kill everyone, and the other says they don't wanna kill everyone, the right answer ain't killin' half of everyone." She pauses to think. "I guess bottom line is ain't no one good in that story, based on all the info I had. Maybe that bloodboil thing cleansed some evil taint from the trees, or maybe they're still evil but being kept alive and mutated 'cuz of that moth. Can't assume that, though."

She shrugs. "Maybe if I had more understanding, I'd have a different answer. Based just on what I saw, I don't see no one bein' good. Don't see no one bein' evil except those two original trees either though."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=14 ;
Tuesday November 19th, 2019 5:48:20 PM
Sol nods.

"I agree with you Lil, but that still does not help us, we will end up working either with or against the Powers of the Sarr, we had best understand what they want, so we can decide which one we may wish to associate with, since however we do things, we will end up associating with one, as each represents some measure of what we may wish for the Sargrass."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday November 19th, 2019 10:37:34 PM
"The moth is clearly special here...whatever it did, it healed, to some extent, the hurt and rivalry, even the undeath of the trees. This must mean something."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday November 19th, 2019 10:52:17 PM
Bigby listens to the talking points and seems to debate with Wolfgang about what to do.

DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses
Tuesday November 19th, 2019 11:32:12 PM
Grindar tries to answer Biel by providing an explanation that maybe the moth was good but more likely no one was. 'Lil states that she can't really tell what is happening in the story, which clearly disappoints Biel. She also concludes there is no obvious good in the story, although the trees were evil. Sol agrees with 'Lil, but predicts that the party will align with one of the aspects someday. Caelwyn says, "The moth is clearly special here...whatever it did, it healed, to some extent, the hurt and rivalry, even the undeath of the trees. This must mean something." Meanwhile, Bigby remains silent, listening.

Biel is apparently pleased at Caelwyn's answer.

Ooc: Biel has asked a number of questions in these conversations, including how you found him. Even though it hasn't been the focus of your posts, is there any reason you would not have told him?

"I think I have heard enough to decide that I will help you, but I must think on how I will do so. But I see that I have assumed you would know things that you need to have explained. The sarg moth" (which, by the way, looked like a cross between a huge, segmented worm and a bat or possibly dragon) "is a rare and auspicious sight. The one in the vision, which did not decay in death, would have been especially holy. A moth is sometimes seen near dusk gliding over the deep plains, but it is very rarely seen at any other time. The sacrifice of the moth allowed the trees to resist the grass, an ability they had lost while they fought each other. So, even though the result may have been neutral, the moth's act countered evil, and I judge it good."

Biel invites you to rest here another day while he decides how best to help you.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday November 20th, 2019 6:15:39 AM
OOC... Grindar would have answered right away, sorry I somehow missed that in your posts. He would have mentioned the monks and told him that they were sent in this direction by them.

"Thank you sir, I apologize if by not naming the moth as good, I my have upset you. I now see your point as to the act being good, even though the outcome was neutral, but as you said, we haven't had anything explained to us, and to be honest, it often seems to me that we are flailing about in the dark, when it comes to understanding this place, and it's history.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday November 20th, 2019 1:09:40 PM
'Lil ponders on this. "Hold up. You sayin' you think the grass is evil? That sounds like a stretch, but we're already talkin' about evil trees, so I'll roll with it.

"Lets say it is. The grass bein' pushed back cause of the moth's influence can maybe be seen as a good act, but the grass only succeeded 'cause of the trees being evil in the first place.

"If the grass ain't evil, then we got two evil trees what got themselves killed, and the sarg moth helping them recover. Promise I ain't tryin' to be difficult here, Biel, and I really appreciate you helpin' us understand what's going on around here, but I just don't see no way based on what I know. I got two questions for ya. First, this a true story? Second, if it is, are them trees still evil?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday November 20th, 2019 4:07:58 PM
"good and evil are sometimes only differentiated by a persons perception or agenda. Not taking a stance is sometimes the wisest thing to do till it becomes more obvious. If you are willing to help us, we will accept the help. We have people to help."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday November 20th, 2019 5:08:47 PM
Sol nods.

"Wise words Bigby. Sometimes what we see as good an evil is not... there are shades of grey. I would however hazard a guess that perhaps the Moth was trying to do good and fix the trees and purify them of their evil before they all were killed?"

Sol shrugs.

"I do believe we need more information before we can make an decisions."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday November 20th, 2019 9:22:12 PM
Caelwyn ponders these answers. "What do the trees represent? Or are they real, physical things?"

DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses
Wednesday November 20th, 2019 10:46:09 PM

Grindar apologizes if his explanation upset Biel, and explains that the group is ignorant of Sargrass history.

'Lil ponders on Biel's explanations and starts questioning them. She wants to know if it was a true story.

Bigby says that good and evil depend on your perspective, and thanks Biel for the promised help.

Sol nods in agreement with Bigby, and offers an explanation for the moth's actions that differs from 'Lil's perspective. "I do believe we need more information before we can make an decisions."

Caelwyn ponders Biel's answers and asks what the trees represent if they are not real.

Biel sits for a bit before answering.

"I have no reason to believe the story is not based on actual events. But let us assume for a moment that it is an allegory. If it were an allegory, I would say the trees represent the Weaver, the sarg moth represents the Walker, and the bloodboil represents the Warper. And what would this mean? The Weaver is not evil, he wants what is no more. The Walker did not act to save the Weaver. And the Warper does not sustain the Weaver. No, I think it must be a recounting of something real. Are the trees still evil? What a question. . . You can't roll back time, not totally, but where do you draw the line between that which is evil and that which is not?" Biel sighs, and thinks a bit more.

"If you look at the communities of the Sargrass, you will find the druids and monks who fight the grass. You will find other peoples who adapt themselves to the grass in varying degrees. Among all these peoples, I know communities that will support the Weaver or the Walker, or try to accommodate both. The Warper is something new; I do not trust him, and neither will they. You are also something new. Is he therefore your natural ally? I do not think so."

"But my fellow druids are becoming museum pieces, like that skiff the monks showed you but will not put to use. If you cut yourself off totally from the world around you, that's a path to extinction. Some amount of change is inevitable. The people of the Sargrass are unique, different, and even bizarre. But we must work together in our differences. Those of us who can't. . . Well, I wish I were young again with that brashness and trust that can only come of youth and a lack of experience. But I ramble, and you should be preparing for your next journey. Hunt while the hunting is good, as it were."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=27 ;
Thursday November 21st, 2019 6:13:09 AM
"Thank you again, good sir, your words have been most enlightening to me, and thank you in advance for your promised help. My hope is that someday soon the people of the plains both those who have always been here, and those who are yet to come, will find peace, and kindred hearts in this grand goal of making the Sargrass a better place to live!" Grindar says to Biel, then turning to his friends he says, "I think I will take our host advice and go do some hunting. Bigby will you join me? Of course if anyone else wishes to join, you are most welcome". (survival 27)

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday November 21st, 2019 12:46:32 PM
'Lil doesn't have a lotta patience for moral relativism. She figures folks talkin' bout shades of gray and whatnot were just excuses big-brained folks made to avoid confrontation while sounding superior. There was evil in the world, and most of it was pretty black and white. At least, that's her view on all this.

The entire conversation she just had's got her agitated, and 'Lil don't handle agitation very well. She bites her tongue through Grindar's farewell and declines his invitation to hunt. She heads off to sit below Vanja and commune with Domi on all this. She's a small fry and don't expect much of a response if any, but she figures it'll make her feel better.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday November 21st, 2019 6:36:22 PM
Sol nods to Biel.

"Thank you for the information. It is bringing a certain clarity to events... though I must admit it some ways it has made things more difficult to understand."

He smiles.

"But fear not, we will do what is best for the Sargrass and the people of it, where ever possible. At least, as far as we can understand it. But these questions I feel are bigger than you or I. Though maybe not Grindor..."

He smirks sideways, and also declines the offer of going out to hunt, under the expectation that he would just slow those capable down, he sits by himself, alternating between writing in his journal and mediating on the deep thoughts that they have been given to think.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=22 ;
Thursday November 21st, 2019 8:12:32 PM
Bigby sensing the tension in the air nods to Grindar. "I will join you for the hunt." 22

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday November 21st, 2019 9:39:17 PM
Caelwyn thanks the druid also. "We appreciate all you have told us...I am sure it will prove useful as we go forward. Hopefully we will choose wisely in trying to balance all of this.

Caelwyn also decides not to hunt, leaving it to those more capable. He, like Lil, feels the need for spiritual guidance, and finds his own quiet spot to speak with Domi about all this.

DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses
Friday November 22nd, 2019 12:17:51 AM
Grindar thanks Biel, then turning to his friends he says, "I think I will take our host advice and go do some hunting. Bigby will you join me? Of course if anyone else wishes to join, you are most welcome."

Bigby accepts Grindar's invitation. While the two of them go on a very successful hunt, the rest of the party comes to grips with their conversation with Biel in their own ways.

'Lil sits beneath Vanja and communes with Domi, trying to relieve her agitation. She figures folks talkin' bout shades of gray and whatnot were just excuses big-brained folks made to avoid confrontation while sounding superior. There was evil in the world, and most of it was pretty black and white.

Sol sits by himself, alternating between writing in his journal and mediating on the deep thoughts that they have been given to think.

Caelwyn, like Lil, feels the need for spiritual guidance, and finds his own quiet spot to speak with Domi about all this.

After the party's brief remarks promising to use the information they have learned to help, Biel leaves the group, promising to return in the morning. It is a quiet afternoon for those who ponder or pray.

Sense motive DC:20, 'Lil at +5, hunters at -5 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {You have a hunch that Biel's interpretation of the story is based on his personal history more than on the story itself.}

.

Added late OoC -- I will be traveling Friday, so Friday's post will be early Saturday.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday November 22nd, 2019 6:09:01 AM
When Grindar and Bigby return from their hunt he sees his friends acting rather introspective, and leaves them to their thoughts, as he goes about getting a fire going and cooking the bounty that he and Bigby gathered. He also wonders about what they have heard, and what is the right path they should take, but he finds that as a person of action, he often does his best thinking and pondering while on the move. that is why he chose to go hunting, well, that and the need for sustenance for himself and his friends.

After the fire is going and the meat is on the spit, Grindar turns to his friends and says, "We have been given much to ponder but I believe at the end of the day, what we have heard doesn't change our mission. We still desire to make the Plains a safer place to live, and to rebuild Rattledam, as well as other communities within the Sargrass. I believe that Biel and his fellow druids can be grand allies in this endeavor, and we have done well to gain Biel's promise of aid, but with or without their aid, we will still do our best to accomplish our mission, because that is who we are, we do our best to do what is right and just, and we aren't the kind to run away from the task at hand".

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+15=23 ;
Friday November 22nd, 2019 11:16:03 AM
Sense motive: 23

'Lil don't hear nothing from Domi, which was fine. He's a god, she's a small fry. Domi's followin' ain't supposed to need their hands held.

She thinks on everything. She's pretty sure Biel's got an agenda. She listens to Grindar's thoughts.

"You ain't wrong, dude, but I'm pretty sure Biel's tryin'a guide us to a conclusion that matches his own. Whatever any of our thoughts on this weaver/walker/warper stuff, I hope we can all agree that gettin' wrapped up too deeply in it right now ain't in our best interests. We help the folks of New Rattledam as much as we can, keep'em safe and build the place up, and let the natives do native stuff.

"Maybe someday we'll be natives ourselves and have more of a stake in all this." She shrugs. "My thoughts, anyway. Food ready yet?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=15 ;
Friday November 22nd, 2019 5:56:59 PM
Sol nods at 'Lil's words.

"I agree. I am not certain of whether Biel has an agenda, but I trust your instincts Lil. We would be foolish no to think that Biel has some intentions for us. Whether that matches with our own or not is a different story. However, I think that Grindar has an excellent point. We should keep doing what we are doing and focus on our goal, then we can worry about the three powers."

He smiles, taking a small bit of food for himself.

"I am glad to have such wise friends."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Saturday November 23rd, 2019 12:36:24 AM
"we're here to get help. I'm not saying we have to woship anyone we don't want to. So long as this druid can get us the druid wood, then that's what we should be doing. But yeah what Sol sayid sounds good."

DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses
Saturday November 23rd, 2019 1:39:38 AM
The next morning, after you are up and ready to face the day, Biel arrives accompanied by a halfling and a scruffy-looking bipedal squirrel. Biel introduces the halfling, "'Lil, Bigby, Caelwyn, Sol, and Grindar -- this is Swift. Swift, these are the other newcomers I mentioned. I believe you all have common goals. In any case, you are all looking for the druids."

Indicating the squirrel, he continues, "I have asked Reech to place Vanja in a corner of the Fey Realm. I believe the compass the monks gave you will then point to the druids grove instead of to Vanja. In a day or two you will have travelled far enough that your device will keep pointing to the grove. Vanja and I have talked, and feel it is important to maintaining the home we have established that Vanja stay here. The other druids do not accept my views on the grass, so it may be better for you to greet them without me. They are restorationists -- you may want to have Grindar be the one to explain your goals to them. Even then, you are likely to have difficulty convincing them to give you what you want."

Biel gives you time to get acquainted while he talks with Reech. Then the squirrel begins a simple enough looking ritual. After a while, the compass drifts away from Vanja, although you have seen nothing obvious happen.

"Good luck."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Sunday November 24th, 2019 4:38:27 AM
Sol nods.

"Thank you Biel for all your help, we have appreciated the safety of your space here. It has been nice not to worry too much. Hopefully we will meet again. Shall we get going then friends?"

He says, indicated the compass.

"Between that thing and Swift, we have another good direction to head in."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Sunday November 24th, 2019 10:07:15 AM
Man, these druids were out there. Squirrels movin' trees around, trees that told stories...for a city girl, it was a lot.

She's still not sure she trusts any of this, but it looks like heading to these other druids is still they're best bet.

"So, is Swift comin' with, or is he just here with Reech to move this tree?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Sunday November 24th, 2019 12:05:58 PM
Grindar looks down on the halfling with a smile and says "Well Mr. Swift, if our goals are indeed similar, then allow me to introduce myself. My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, and my friends here and I are traveling to obtain druid wood, and if you are so inclined you are welcome to join us. In case you were wondering, I'm a Ranger, tell us a little about yourself." Swift sees a tall heavily muscled half-orc wearing a breastplate with Pantheon's holy symbol painted on the front. He has three weapons strapped to his back, a masterwork orc double axe, a mundane orc double axe, and a mundane quarterstaff.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Sunday November 24th, 2019 10:23:34 PM
Caelwyn raises an eyebrow at Biel's words. He has come to respect Grindar, but Caelwyn has quite a few years of diplomatic ability and experience under his belt - leaving the party's diplomacy to a fifteen year old, half-orc ranger doesn't seem like the best idea. Is that fair, he wonders, or am I just being conceited? Domi only knows...

But he says nothing about that, instead thanking Biel and thinking about how best to make their case to the druids. After a minute he speaks: "Hmm, I certainly agree that we may have trouble convincing the druids to help us...we must prepare our argument carefully."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday November 25th, 2019 12:59:47 AM
Bigby points to Grindar and a then follows with a thumbs up. "he's alright. He's a ranger."

DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses
Monday November 25th, 2019 9:54:15 PM

Sol thanks Biel for his help. "Hopefully we will meet again. Shall we get going then friends?" he says, indicating the compass.

'Lil Is still not sure she trusts any of this.

Grindar looks down on the halfling with a smile and introduces himself.

Caelwyn raises an eyebrow at Biel's suggestion that Grindar represent the group to the druids. After a minute he speaks: "Hmm, I certainly agree that we may have trouble convincing the druids to help us...we must prepare our argument carefully."

Bigby points to Grindar and then follows with a thumbs up.

Swift stays silent for the moment.

The magic compass points generally south. It looks like the party will get more time slogging through the grass.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday November 26th, 2019 5:28:01 AM
As they prepare to set out, following the magic druid wood finding compass, Grindar says to Swift and the rest of the party, "Perhaps we can get to our new friend while on the trail, after all, we'll have plenty of time while trudging through this grass",

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday November 26th, 2019 10:18:47 AM
'Lil chooses to keep silent, but closely watches how Swift moves through the grass. Maybe there's some trick to make it less sucky.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday November 26th, 2019 2:55:59 PM
Bigby hops off Wolfgang to move through the grass at his leisure. "Come on guys, it's as easy as a this." Sure he would use his woodland stride to his advantage and not let on that that was what he was doing. Just this once he got to be the bigger creature.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday November 26th, 2019 7:24:09 PM
Sol simply follows along, says nothing as he is apparently struggling to carry all his belongings.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday November 26th, 2019 9:28:42 PM
Caelwyn eyes the squirrel as they march along. "Tell me, Swift, where do you come from? If we are going to journey together, we might as well get to know one another a bit."

DM Steve -- Make travel in the grass less sucky d20=2 ; d6=4 ;
Tuesday November 26th, 2019 9:54:35 PM

As they prepare to set out, following the magic druid wood finding compass, Grindar says to Swift and the rest of the party, "Perhaps we can get to our new friend while on the trail, after all, we'll have plenty of time while trudging through this grass."

'Lil chooses to keep silent, but closely watches how Swift moves through the grass. Maybe there's some trick to make it less sucky.

Bigby hops off Wolfgang to move through the grass at his leisure. "Come on guys, it's as easy as a this."

Sol simply follows along, saying nothing as he struggles to carry all his belongings.

Caelwyn eyes the halfling as they march along. "Tell me, Swift, where do you come from? If we are going to journey together, we might as well get to know one another a bit."

Swift has as much trouble as the rest of the group (but Bigby) in the grass. Whatever his vocation, he's not an experienced druid.

The party quickly settles back into their traveling routine, wading into the grass and being pushed back by it -- or at least feeling like it's pushing back. The compass points into the grass slightly away from the direction the mountains go, leaving the question of whether the group prefers the rough and stony terrain or the rough and grassy terrain. One being no faster than the other, they follow the direct route shown by the compass.

On the afternoon of the second day, they realize that they have strayed from their course. Although Bigby and Grindar have no trouble with direction here, it becomes apparent that the group has been veering east when Sol observes that they need to adjust their direction again after checking the compass. It's the "again" that makes you realize this is not the first correction you've needed to keep going where the compass is pointing.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday November 27th, 2019 6:20:34 AM
Grindar isn't sure as to what to think of the halfling traveling with them as he has remained silent, in spite of various nudging to get him to share something about himself, but decides to leave it rest figuring Swift will share his story when the time is right.

Grindar is perplexed by the constant need to re-calculate their position, especially when there are two skilled individuals leading the way. At first he just thought that he and Bigby, had made a simple miscalculation, but after awhile it has become abundantly clear to him that someone, or someones are trying to keep them away. He turns to his friends and says, "Something isn't right here, something is trying to block our path, I believe someone or someones, don't want us moving forward".

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday November 27th, 2019 9:39:24 AM
"Well, that ain't very friendly. Think them druids Biel is sending us to is tryin'a avoid us? Maybe we get the right direction, then rely on stuff besides that compass to get there? Lot I don't know about orienteering, but that seems like it could work.

"Or maybe the continent's shiftin' again. That would be something."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=14 ;
Wednesday November 27th, 2019 1:42:19 PM
survival 14. "I don't know I think it's this way. I thougt it was. Is it some sort of sorcery is messing with us Sol?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday November 27th, 2019 6:02:27 PM
"Do either of you two..." Sol says, indicated Bigby and Grindar. "Know why we have to keep changing course? Is there an issue with our original heading?"

He sighs, taking a deep breath as he tries to conjure the strength to continue.

DM Steve -- Maybe the continent's shiftin' again
Wednesday November 27th, 2019 10:52:54 PM

Grindar is perplexed by the need to re-calculate their position, especially when there are two skilled individuals leading the way.
"Something isn't right here, something is trying to block our path, I believe someone or someones, don't want us moving forward."

'Lil asks, "Think them druids Biel is sending us to is tryin'a avoid us?"

Bigby asks Sol if this is some sort of sorcery; Sol asks Bigby and Grindar, "Know why we have to keep changing course? Is there an issue with our original heading?"

Survival DC:15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The direction the compass is pointing does not seem to be changing. The party is just veering away from it when they're not looking at the compass.}

Perception DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear occassional rustling in the grass when you're following the compass, but not when you're not paying attention to the compass.}

If you made either of the other rolls, then Wisdom roll DC:15 Highlight to display spoiler: {If you close your eyes and relax, you feel a "tug" to move in an eastward direction. It can be easily resisted once the characters realize it is there.}

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=26 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+3=14 ;
Thursday November 28th, 2019 11:53:23 AM
"the direction of the compass isn't changing. seems like there is rustling in the grass whenever I look at the compass. I feel like I should know this. I mean somethings nagging at me but I just can't figure out why all of this is happening. What do you guys think?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=29 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+4=11 ;
Thursday November 28th, 2019 12:55:31 PM
Survival 29
Perception 19
Wisdom 11

"I agree with Bigby, the compass doesn't change, but for some reason as soon as we take our eyes off the compass, we veer off course. unless someone can come up with another plan, I'll keep a constant eye on the compass as we move forward".

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday November 28th, 2019 7:17:43 PM
Sol clicks his fingers.

"Was there not a legend of some description saying that if you try to map the Sargrass it will inevitably change? Perhaps it is something to do with that? A compass is not quite a map but whatever is the reason behind the legend may be why we are veering off course, if the Sargrass itself is indeed a flowing location that moves and changes itself."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+4=18 ; d20+10=12 ; d20+4=12 ;
Thursday November 28th, 2019 8:00:44 PM
Passed survival check.

"Great Migrations are pretty spectacular events. They ain't subtle. I don't think that's what we're dealin' with. Let's keep goin', but take turns with the compass so we don't get complacent."

DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events d4+3=5 ; d8=2 ; d4=1 ; d12=12 ; d20+1=10 ; d3=1 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+1=7 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+1=17 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+1=3 ; d20+1=3 ; d20+1=11 ; d3-1=2 ; d3-1=2 ; d3-1=0 ; d3-1=2 ;
Thursday November 28th, 2019 10:22:44 PM
Bigby and Grindar realize that the compass is continuing to point true (or at least consistently), and the party is straying from the course when not actively using the compass. Sol and 'Lil debate events that could cause this. The party settles on paying constant attention to the compass so as not to become complacent.

After some time taking turns using the compass in this manner, the party finds themselves in and among a group of tiny (3' long) creatures resembling plucked turkeys. The creatures appear out of the grasses and immediately attack.

Know nature DC:12 Highlight to display spoiler: {This is not normal behavior for creatures this size.}

Perception DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {These creatures were heading in the direction the party would go without constant attention to the compass.}

Bigby is bitten once for 2 points of damage and fortitude save vs DC: 12 or lose a point of Strength.

Sol is bitten once for 2 points of damage and fortitude save vs DC: 12 or lose a point of Strength.

Lil is bitten twice for 2 points of damage total and two fortitude saves vs DC: 12 or lose a point of Strength each.

Grindar, Caelwyn, and Swift are missed.

There are 12 plucked turkeys facing you.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+6=7 ; d20+10=20 ; d20+7=16 ; d20+7=19 ; d8+4=9 ; d8+4=12 ;
Friday November 29th, 2019 12:25:19 PM
Knowledge Nature 7
Perception 20

Grindar springs into action, when the Plucked Turkeys attack. He makes a full round attack at the nearest plucked turkey with Bwyell. If the first attack drops a turkey, he will use his off-hand on a second, taking a 5 ft step if needed.

Main Hand
16 for 9 slashing damage

Off-hand
19 for 12 slashing damage

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=20 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=23 ; d2+3=5 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=15 ; d6+1=2 ; d20+4=13 ;
Friday November 29th, 2019 12:35:24 PM
knowledge nature (20) Perception (15) fort dc save (13). "this seems abnormal for these creatures," but Bigby must fight to protect the tribe and so he attacks back at the jive turkeys. claw one 25, 5dmg, claw two 23, 5dmg. Bigby bites same if alive or a differnt turkey if the one bigby attacks is now dead. 15att, 2dmg. Trip attack: 13.

Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20+8=18 ; 3d6=8 ;
Friday November 29th, 2019 12:54:33 PM
(lvl1 spells per pay 6/7)
Swift attempts to cast shocking grap defesnively (need to beat dc 17) rolled 18 dmg 8

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=22 ; d20+4=14 ; d20+4=20 ; d20+6=19 ; d8+1=7 ;
Friday November 29th, 2019 5:36:14 PM
Perception: DC22.

'Lil makes a mental note that these stupid turkeys was headin' wherever they keep wanting to go. She's gettin' nipped by the darn things. Her muscles spasm painfully, but she rubs'em out.

Fort save 14 and 20: both pass.

'Lil takes a a 5' step back and casts Spiritual Weapon, havin' it clobber the first turkey what bit her.

Hit AC 19 for 7 damage.

DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events d20+1=18 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+1=2 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+9=22 ; d3-1=1 ; d3-1=1 ;
Friday November 29th, 2019 10:58:17 PM

Grindar makes short work of the creatures attacking him. Bigby downs one and wounds another. Swift kills one of his. And 'Lil takes out one of hers. Sol and Caelwyn concentrate on defending themselves for a moment.

The surviving seven creatures return the attack, biting Bigby and Sol successfully, each for 1 point of damage and a fortitude save at DC:12 or lose 1 point of Strength.

You have determined these creatures are AC 15.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=16 ; d20+5=16 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+5=23 ; d8+1=4 ; d8+3=7 ; d8+3=8 ; d8+3=5 ;
Saturday November 30th, 2019 10:32:30 AM
'Lil directs her spiritual hammer over to another'a these turkeys and splats it. Then, she pulls Maya out and stabs any of'em what's nearby.

Spiritual Hammer: Hit AC 16 for 4 damage
Longspear +1: Hit AC 16 for 7 damage
Potential AoO if any of'em get near (longspear has reach): Hit AC 21 for 8 damage
2nd AoO if applicable (combat reflexes): Hit AC 23 for 5 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=3 ; d20+1=2 ;
Saturday November 30th, 2019 5:22:57 PM
((OoC: Well bother, failed both the Fort rolls...))

Sol after being attacked twice in quick succession immediately slumps, dropping his pack to the ground, no longer able to carry it, he then Withdraws away from the creatures, moving as far as he can from all of them so he is still able to cast his spells (Magic Missile and Scorching Ray). He moves away then collapses on the floor for a moment to catch himself due to his now greatly reduced strength.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=22 ; d8+3=6 ;
Sunday December 1st, 2019 1:20:17 PM
"Hey!" Caelwyn moves over to shield Sol from further attack. "Back off, miserable creatures." He immediately stabs at the nearest one with his trident, keen on preventing anyone else from having their strength drained.

Attack: 22, Damage: 6

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=17 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=23 ; d2+3=4 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+4=19 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=6 ;
Sunday December 1st, 2019 7:25:32 PM
fort save 17. "you turkeys going down." Bigby attacks twice again. claw one 25, 4 dmg. claw two 23, dmg 4. Wolfgang attempts to attack same creature or another creature in range if this one dies. bite 19, 6 dmg, trip 17.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+7=16 ; d20+7=23 ; d8+4=10 ; d8+4=5 ;
Monday December 2nd, 2019 5:42:05 AM
Grindar will take a 5 ft step towards the nearest (Hopefully 2) plucked turkeys, and stays in full round attack mode. If the main hand drops one, if another is within range, he will lash out at it.

main hand
16 for 10 slashing damage

off hand
23 for 5 slashing damage

Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20+8=25 ; d20=5 ;
Monday December 2nd, 2019 7:39:05 PM
(lvl1 spells per pay 6/7)
Swift, encouraged by his first sucess, attempts again to cast shocking grap defesnively against another on of the creatures and rolls a 25 to cast defensively but rolls a 5 against their touch ac. Leaving a large lightning flash through the air as he swings his hand

Mutation Bloom

DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events d6=1 ; d20+1=12 ;
Monday December 2nd, 2019 7:54:14 PM
The combined efforts of the party kill an additional six of the creatures, and leave the final one seriously wounded. It tries to attack 'Lil, but falls short, finding movement more painful than usual. It looks as if one more blow will do it in.

Sol, meanwhile, still has the creatures' poison in him (make another fortitude save vs DC:12 or lose 1 Strength).

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=8 ; d8+3=4 ;
Monday December 2nd, 2019 8:13:01 PM
Caelwyn takes another stab of the creature, trying to finish it off. Unfortunately, it seems to avoid him.

Attack 8, damage 4

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=23 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+4=19 ; d6+1=7 ;
Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 12:00:40 AM
The blood of turkeys causing a frenzy with the wolf pack, drives Bigby and wolfgang to move over to the final turkey and bigby claws it. claw 23, 4 dmg. Wolfgang attempts a bite attack, 19, dmg 7.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 6:00:52 AM
Seeing Bigby dealing with the last plucked turkey, Grindar stays his hand, and wipes the blood from his blades. he turns to Swift and says, "So your a spell chucker like our friend Sol here, that could come in handy going forward".

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=3 ;
Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 6:55:46 PM
Sol fails again sighing and looking like he's struggling even more than he was before.

"I am really not feeling very good friends..."

He says before collapsing onto the ground.

Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12
Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 7:51:17 PM
"Does anyone here have any medical training?" says swift in a precise but slightly concerned way "I'm afraid healing is far from my strong suit and this main appears afflicted by more than normal damage"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 9:51:51 PM
Caelwyn steps over to Sol, concern in his eyes. "There's something in the bite of those animals, that much is clear...what is causing you pain, Sol? I'm no medical expert, but we can try to do something here..." He helps Sol sit up, and relieves him of whatever he may be carrying.

DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events
Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 11:16:42 PM
Caelwyn chases the last of the lizard-bird things towards Bigby, then tries to help Sol.

Bigby finishes off the creature.

Grindar cleans his weapons and greets Swift.

Sol is clearly suffering from the bites these things gave him.

Swift asks if anyone is able to help Sol.

The creatures have been swiftly -- even easily -- killed. However, Sol is still suffering the effects of their attacks (and once again must make a fortitude save vs DC:12 or lose 1 Strength).

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday December 4th, 2019 5:41:10 AM
Grindar rushes over to Sol with more than a little concern, he looks to 'Lil with hope that she may have the cure for the wizard. Seeing Sol being so weak that he can't even walk, Grindar will gently pick up his friend and carry him, asking that someone else grab Sol's gear saying, "We got to get going, maybe the druids can help!"

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+8=10 ;
Wednesday December 4th, 2019 11:23:22 AM
With a flourish, 'Lil puts Maya back, then checks on Sol.

Heal 10: What are we dealing with here? Disease? Poison? Curse? Is it gonna keep on progressing?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday December 4th, 2019 12:49:02 PM
Bigby casts resistance on Sol to give him a +1 to his saving throw.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=16 ;
Wednesday December 4th, 2019 4:45:06 PM
Sol seems to recover a little bit, and doesn't seem to be getting much worse, but lets out a soft groan, as he still seems weak(er) than normal.

His eyes are closed and there is a pained expression on his face, however he seems conscious.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday December 4th, 2019 7:45:50 PM
Lay on hands won't be helpful now, so Caelwyn volunteers to help carry Sol and his belongings. "Perhaps we can make a stretcher out of grasses, Sol's staff, and my trident, to carry him until his condition improves?"

DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events
Wednesday December 4th, 2019 11:02:04 PM
Grindar rushes over to Sol, then gently picks up his friend and carries him, asking that someone else grab Sol's gear, "We got to get going, maybe the druids can help!"

'Lil checks on Sol.

Bigby casts resistance on Sol.

Sol seems to recover a little bit, and doesn't seem to be getting much worse, but lets out a soft groan, as he still seems weak(er) than normal.

Caelwyn volunteers to help carry Sol and his belongings. "Perhaps we can make a stretcher out of grasses, Sol's staff, and my trident, to carry him until his condition improves?"

Although Sol is no longer getting worse, the poison of those creatures has left him severely weakened. He can no longer manage his small load of belongings without slowing down. Sol is heavy enough, however, to encumber even Grindar. A stretcher might allow the rest of the party to carry him without slowing; it could also mean two people had to delay while setting Sol down if there's another encounter.
It is still mid-afternoon. You are in the grasses, which are already difficult to travel through.

How does the party proceed?

-----

OOC: I should have given the party 3500 XP for the discussions with Biel and negotiating his help. Please update your sheets with your share. It looks like the Sargrass XP tracker hasn't been updated since May. Anyone up to the task?

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday December 5th, 2019 5:41:00 AM
"That's a good idea Caelwyn, but instead of your trident, why not use my my quarterstaff" Grindar offers, "Also to speed things up, I have a heavy winter blanket in my pack, using that and my quarterstaff, as well as Sol's staff should make a fairly comfortable and easy to carry stretcher, leaving your trident available if something requires it's attention".

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday December 5th, 2019 10:51:45 AM
"Stretcher's a good idea. Put something soft under'is butt and head so we can drop'im if we need to, though. Lots a baddies out here and he's giving off a wounded vibe, ya know?"

Was 'Lil able to tell anything w/ her heal check?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday December 5th, 2019 11:22:52 AM
Bigby and Wolfgang will help pull Sol and or carry his equipment and gear. "perhaps a lesser restoration spell could help. 'Lil, you got any of those?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday December 5th, 2019 5:38:34 PM
Sol doesn't move much, but doesn't resist, apparently slipping in an out of consciousness, clearly feeling very uncomfortable, he makes the odd groan and grumble while being moved, but otherwise doesn't say anything.

Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12
Thursday December 5th, 2019 9:22:52 PM
"I can attempt to help but im afraid i wont be able to carry more than a few pound smore than my own gear" says swift, " might be smart for me to travel a few hundred yards ahead and shoot up some lights if i see trouble? that way we can hide your friend and prepare for a fight."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Thursday December 5th, 2019 10:48:20 PM
Caelwyn agrees to these plans, accepting Grindar's offer of his quarterstaff to help make the stretcher. "Thank you, I would rather have this available if anything else comes up. I wonder how we can help Sol recover his strength...I shall ask Domi for guidance."

OOC: Do we need a survival check or something to create this stretcher?

DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events d20=16 ;
Friday December 6th, 2019 12:07:17 AM
Grindar offers for the stretcher his blanket and a pair of quarterstaffs -- his and Sol's.

'Lil checks Sol carefully. He has been poisoned, but should recover in time. "Stretcher's a good idea. Put something soft under'is butt and head so we can drop'im if we need to, though."

Bigby and Wolfgang help pull Sol or his gear. "Perhaps a lesser restoration spell could help. 'Lil, you got any of those?"

Sol doesn't move much, but doesn't resist, apparently slipping in an out of consciousness, clearly feeling very uncomfortable, he makes the odd groan and grumble while being moved, but otherwise doesn't say anything.

Swift offers to help. "Might be smart for me to travel a few hundred yards ahead and shoot up some lights if i see trouble? That way we can hide your friend and prepare for a fight."

Caelwyn agrees to these plans, accepting Grindar's offer of his quarterstaff to help make the stretcher. "Thank you, I would rather have this available if anything else comes up. I wonder how we can help Sol recover his strength...I shall ask Domi for guidance."

.
It takes a liitle time, but the group is able to fashion a stretcher from the blanket and staves. The party starts carrying Sol. The grasses here are not the tallest you've seen, but still taller than anyone in the party.

-----
OoC:

Which direction does the party go? How is the group arranged? Who carries Sol, or do you trade off?

The experience total I gave yesterday comes to 700 each, not 3500 each. Sorry for any confusion.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=20 ;
Friday December 6th, 2019 5:38:42 AM
Grindar places Sol's bedroll under Sol's head, then picks up one end of the stretcher, and if someone offers to relieve him, he refuses. He is resolved to carry Sol, whom, like the rest of the group, he sees as a brother or sister. He is glad when 'Lil informs everyone that even though he was poisoned, he should recover over time, though watching his friend suffer is hard on the young half-orc. he does his best to keep his eyes open for any unwelcome guests. (Perception 20)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=13 ; d20+10=20 ;
Friday December 6th, 2019 12:15:23 PM
Bigby offers to help Grindar, but then sees in his eyes that he's not gonna let that happen. "ok, Grindars got this. We will scout ahead with swift. Ever tell you about the ants in this place Swift. They will eat you alive." 13 perception, 20 survival.

ooc: not sure what options we have to travel. I'm guessing back to the original direction we were heading, which was getting lost???

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday December 6th, 2019 12:22:17 PM
'Lil ain't got a restoration spell, and if Sol's poisoned it wouldn't be worth too much anyway. If Grindar was set about carryin'im, 'Lil figures there wasn't no talking him out of it. She takes the other end.

"Bigby, you wanna lead us? Grindar's our other natureboy, and he's busy."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday December 6th, 2019 6:17:13 PM
Sol, in one of his more lucid moments, where he realises what is happening mumbles out something that sounds like "Thanks.", but isn't clear enough to be sure.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=17 ;
Friday December 6th, 2019 11:03:43 PM
Caelwyn offers to relieve anyone who gets tired carrying the stretcher, and sets himself as the rearguard. Anyone who wants to get to his companions will have to deal with him first.

Perception 17

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d4=1 ; d8=5 ; d20+3=12 ; d3=3 ;
Friday December 6th, 2019 11:57:45 PM
While Bigby and Swift take the compass ahead a little bit to scout out the path -- but not far, so the rest of the party can see them -- Grindar and 'Lil carry Sol. Caelwyn follows closely. Bigby takes the party's original course toward the druids by following the compass.

After Bigby and Swift have passed, a large leaf -- almost unnoticed -- detaches from the tall grass and floats down toward the party. Grindar sees and tries to avoid it, whereupon it changes course towards Caelwyn, lashing his armor with its stem-like tail, but not reaching him with its attack. After the course change, it is clear that this "blade of grass" can fly.

Grindar and Caelwyn: sense motive vs DC 12 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {This thing was originally headed for Sol.}

Bigby and Swift will require 1 round to return to the group. Grindar and 'Lil are still carrying Sol. Sol is prone. For the next post, Caelwyn and the leaf should take two rounds of actions, while everyone else returns or otherwise makes ready and takes one. No one said they healed up after the last fight, so Sol and 'Lil should have a little damage.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Sunday December 8th, 2019 7:57:26 PM
"Swift, you see that? We gotta get back to the party. or mabye you can hit it from afar." Bigby rushes back to the party.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+2=4 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+7=27 ; d8+4=11 ; d8+4=6 ;
Monday December 9th, 2019 6:02:53 AM
Sense motive 4

Grindar doesn't notice anything particular about the flying leaf creature, other than it's attacking them, so he sets his end of the stretcher down as gently as he can under the situation, and draws Bwyell as he move into position to attack/defend. He then engages in a full round attack on the leaf.

Main Hand
hits AC 13 for 11 damage

Off Hand
hits AC 27 for 6 damage

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+4=13 ; d20+4=21 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=4 ;
Monday December 9th, 2019 10:48:40 AM
"Even the blasted leaves attack us in this place? Sheesh." 'Lil puts down Sol with Grindar and pulls out Maya. She stands on guard for any more of the things.

Readied action: Attack anything that comes in range, or the existing leaf thing if it's the only one.

Hit AC 13 for 11 damage
Combat reflexes, if needed: Hit AC 21 for 4 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday December 9th, 2019 6:11:01 PM
Sol manages to recover some level of consciousness, he simply groans, not apparently aware what is going on.

"Friends... what is happening?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20=5 ; d20+3=17 ; d8+3=9 ;
Monday December 9th, 2019 11:06:45 PM
Caelwyn is utterly bemused as to what this is. He immediately attacks with his trident.

Attack 19, Damage 9

ooc: attack should have been +5

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d20+3=5 ;
Monday December 9th, 2019 11:45:08 PM
Caelwyn and the leaf clash while Grindar and 'Lil carefully put down Sol. Caelwyn does considerable damage to the leaf, which tries an ineffectual attack. Bigby arrives back in time to watch Grindar and 'Lil finish the thing off. Sol is aware something happened, but isn't sure what. Swift hasn't gotten back to the group before the fight is over.

It is still late afternoon. You are still in tall grasses, unsure whether yhere are more of these things around. How does the party proceed?

Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12
Tuesday December 10th, 2019 2:05:49 AM
Swift runs back to the group out of breath and looking at the now former battleground, "apologies friends im afraid i was caught daydreaming, wont happen again i assure you, though it looks like you all do not struggle to defend yourselves."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+4=22 ; d20+10=29 ;
Tuesday December 10th, 2019 5:58:43 AM
"No worries friend Swift, one can only assume that these grasses are not at all easy for your short legs, heck, with the exception of Bigby, when he isn't riding his wolf friend, we all are struggling", Grindar says in hopes of putting Swift at ease. He tries to identify the leaf creature (knowledge nature 22), and keeps his eyes pealed for more of them, (perception 29) as he picks up his end of the stretcher making ready to head out.

To Sol he says, "Fear not brother, an enemy attacked, and was vanquished post haste, try to relax my friend according to Lil, your condition is only temporary, so you should be back on your feet in no time".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday December 10th, 2019 10:41:01 AM
"You guys alright? we should move ahead and get out of here. I think we can't stay here." I'll scout ahead again.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday December 10th, 2019 4:09:56 PM
'Lil keeps Maya in hand for a moment before putting her away. "I'll keep carryin' Sol. Cae, stay near with that trident handy, eh?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday December 10th, 2019 5:54:08 PM
Sol nods before allowing the unconciousness to take him again. It seems that what little strength he had before has not entirely left him.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday December 10th, 2019 7:02:20 PM
Caelwyn posts up directly behind the stretcher bearers, ready with trident and shield to protect his companions should other foes reveal themselves. He has a nasty feeling that the leaves are coming from somewhere or something a bit more dangerous than a single one...

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d4=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d8=1 ; d4+2=4 ; d20+4=18 ;
Tuesday December 10th, 2019 10:54:26 PM
Grindar examines the leaf creature, trying to identify it. Close examination finds it to be more plant-like than animal-like -- it has no mouth, for instance. However, it does have a stinger on the end of its tail, and likely a poisonous one.

The party resumes their previous formation, their senses heightened for fear that there are others of these creatures in the area. Once again, Bigby and Swift take the compass and lead the way. Grindar and 'Lil carry Sol. Caelwyn follows closely, remaining vigilant.

There are no other attacks in this particular region, however, and over time the party relaxes.

As it's getting on towards dusk, Caelwyn sees and points out to the rest of the group what appear through the grasses to be some sort of snakes as they fly into the grasses about 40' away. You can't seen them clearly because of the intervening grass, but there are several and they are tiny. Pausing, the party watches them settle down in the grass, hanging by their tails to rest. They don't seem to have seen you either. Yet.

Stealth rolls everyone, if you want to keep on your path and still escape their attention. (Sol does not need to roll.)

Perception DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {These creatures were heading in the direction the party would go without constant attention to the compass.}

Know Nature DC:20 or Survival DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You have seen an awful lot of creatures in a short time this day. Something has to be attracting them.}

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=9 ; d20+2=4 ; d20+4=10 ;
Wednesday December 11th, 2019 11:09:21 AM
'Lil's chainmail constantly clinks as she walks, ruining any chance of being sneaky. She remains completely oblivious to everything as she carries Sol and keeps an eye on his condition.

Stealth: 4
Perception: 9
Can't make the knowledge, Nature check
Survival: 10

eesh

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=20 ; d20+10=24 ; d20+10=18 ;
Wednesday December 11th, 2019 11:47:26 AM
stealth 20, perception 24, survival 18. Bigby notices that the creatures are heading in similar direction of where the compass is leading. What's with this compass. Bigby and Wolfgang scout stealthily and hears 'Lil's armor clinking. Bigby shakes his head, we're going to get attacked again He silently chuckles.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+4=9 ; d20+10=26 ; d20+10=11 ;
Wednesday December 11th, 2019 5:42:00 PM
stealth 9
perception 26
survival 11

Grindar stumbles on a stone, creating a bit of noise. "Why is everything wanting to head that way?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday December 11th, 2019 6:56:00 PM
Sol remains barely conscious, drifting in and out, making the odd sound but for the most part remaining both incoherent and unhelpful.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=18 ; d20-6=14 ; d20=6 ;
Wednesday December 11th, 2019 9:42:08 PM
Caelwyn thinks for a moment he catches sight of something, but decides it was just his imagination (Perception 18, gaah)

Somehow he is able to move relatively quietly (Stealth 14) and winces at the sound of his companions moving around him. "Here we go again" he thinks.

Survival 6

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d20=19 ;
Wednesday December 11th, 2019 10:54:35 PM
Bigby and Grindar notice something about the flight of the creatures. "Why is everything wanting to head that way?", Grindar asks.

Bigby and Caelwyn quiet down upon seeing the creatures, but 'Lil tromps on obliviously and Grindar stumbles a bit. Sol tosses on his stretcher, but his murmurings are not loud. Swift is surprisingly quiet -- or maybe that's just how halflings are.

The creatures notice you, and drop from their perches. As they fly closer you notice they are about three feet long, a little thicker than you would expect snakes that size to be. They do not have wings, but seem to be levitating somehow. Their heads are rather horse-like, and there is something about the undersides of their bodies that you can't make out yet. They only approach, ending about 20 feet away and 15 feet off the ground,

One of them makes a loud, shrill neighing. Please make a will save, DC:12 to avoid becoming sickened (Sickened: The character takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks).

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=15 ;
Thursday December 12th, 2019 10:56:38 AM
Will save: 15

'Lil holds on to her lunch. "Ok Sol, let's get you back up for this." She motions to Grindar to put him down, then places one hand on his head, and another on his chest. Strength flows back into Sol's muscles.

"You've got three minutes. Get off yer butt and come kill these things with us."

Move: Put down Sol
Standard: Bull's strength on Sol - +4 STR for 3 minutes

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=15 ; d20+2=18 ;
Thursday December 12th, 2019 12:05:55 PM
will save: 15 (Bigby), 18 (wolfgang)

Bigby's ears fold down at the noise. "I don't like these things. If we need cover I'll cast obscuring mist." Bigby casts guidance on swift as he is closeby him during scouting.

The creature gets a +1 competence bonus on a single attack roll, saving throw, or skill check. It must choose to use the bonus before making the roll to which it applies.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+6=23 ;
Thursday December 12th, 2019 12:12:15 PM
Sol, thankfully is not affected by the sound, but has not recovered completed.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+3=21 ;
Thursday December 12th, 2019 5:57:36 PM
Will save 21

Grindar isn't effected by the noise, but he doesn't have a good feeling about whats about to go down. He sets his end of the stretcher down at the same time as Lil, then stands up and draws Bwyell.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=19 ;
Thursday December 12th, 2019 7:59:01 PM
Will save 19.

Caelwyn staunchly ignores the creepy neighing of the snake things. He immediately moves forward to protect Sol as he continues to recover, with his shield up and his trident ready to strike. "Are we sure they want to fight? Perhaps if we continue they will simply leave us be...although somehow I doubt it..."

Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20=11 ;
Thursday December 12th, 2019 9:12:53 PM
will save 14
Swift is wary but does commit to an attack, he stops but does not say anything or ready any spell

DM Steve -- in the tall grass
Thursday December 12th, 2019 11:58:05 PM
Grindar and 'Lil put Sol down. Grindar draws his weapon. 'Lil casts bull's strength on Sol. "Ok Sol, let's get you back up for this. You've got three minutes. Get off yer butt and come kill these things with us."

Bigby casts guidance to aid Swift.

Swift and Caelwyn eye the creatures vigilantly, but do not attack. Caelwyn takes a position to guard Sol. "Are we sure they want to fight? Perhaps if we continue they will simply leave us be...although somehow I doubt it..."

No one was affected by the sound of the first creature.

The creatures continue to levitate, flying around the party but staying out of weapons reach. Two more of the creatures make their nauseating neigh.

Please make two will saves, DC:12 each, to avoid becoming sickened (Sickened: The character takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks).

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=9 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+3=16 ; d20+3=10 ; d8+2=10 ; d20+3=4 ;
Friday December 13th, 2019 12:12:57 PM
Will saves 9 & 18 - one fails.

The sound starts to bounce around in 'Lil's head, which somehow connects to her stomach.

"Ok, enough play time," she says before she takes a step towards the creatures. She keeps them at 10' and attacks.

Hit AC 16 for 10 damage. All AoOs miss.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=6 ; d20+5=18 ; d20+2=17 ; d20+2=4 ;
Friday December 13th, 2019 1:18:45 PM
will saves 6, 18, 17, 4. Bigby and Wolfgang feel sickened.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+6=21 ; d20+6=18 ; d4+1=2 ;
Friday December 13th, 2019 2:10:24 PM
((21 and 18 on the Will Saves, passing both))

Sol, invigorated by the spell, gets up, as he is now slightly stronger than he was before!

He then casts Magic Missile at the creature that Lil attacks. ((2 Force damage))

"Thank you Lil! I appreciate the help! I am glad to finally be more effective!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+3=9 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+5=7 ;
Friday December 13th, 2019 8:14:14 PM
Even though he is starting to feel a little under the weather, (failed one of the saves) while holding Bwyell in his off hand, he draws and hurls a javelin towards the nearest creature.

7-2=5, most likely a miss

Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20=11 ;
Saturday December 14th, 2019 12:51:24 AM
will save 14
Swift is wary but does commit to an attack, he stops but does not say anything or ready any spell

Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20=12 ; d20=18 ; 3d4=7 ;
Saturday December 14th, 2019 12:58:44 AM
(sorry my computer odly decided t repost my last post0
saves 15 and 21
lvl 1 spells per day left 4/7
swift is less thn happy that his party attacked first but begrudingly attacks the neasrest creature with flaming hands 7 damage reflex save for half dc 17

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d4=4 ; d4=1 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+1=5 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+1=6 ; d4-1=2 ; d4-1=3 ;
Saturday December 14th, 2019 10:49:03 AM
Weilding a longspear, 'Lil finds the creatures within reach, and stabs one, killing it.

Sol damages another with his magic missile. "Thank you Lil! I appreciate the help! I am glad to finally be more effective!"

Swift kills another with his burning hands.

Grindar throws a javelin, but misses.

Caelwyn tries to keep any of the creatures from reaching Sol.

The two remaining creatures continue to whinny, but those of you who are not already sickened feel no more affects. In a coordinated attack, they both dive on Swift with a flurry of bites and blows that allows no attack of opportunity. Both bites connect, although their tail lashings are ineffective. Swift takes 5 points of damage.

=====
Snake things:
1 - dead
2 - 2 dmg, AC:13
3 - uninjured, AC:13
4 - dead

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+5=21 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+9=14 ; d8=4 ; d8=5 ;
Saturday December 14th, 2019 11:22:41 AM
Seeing Swift being attacked directly, Grindar rushes to his aid, in spite of his sickness. if it only takes a 5ft step he will make a full round action, otherwise he will attempt a two-handed single attack.

full round attack
main hand
21 for 8 damage

off hand
7 for 9 damage

two-handed attack
23 for 10 damage

(OOC... sorry about the extra d20 rolls, not sure what I was thinking)

CDM Jerry [OOC post]
Saturday December 14th, 2019 11:55:10 AM
Everyone is invited to the retirement party for the

Iron Dragons!

To be held on the Giggling Ghost board!
Starting Monday, December 16
and continuing all week.

Please come help celebrate their incredible journey
from level 1 through level 20.
[June 29, 2009 - December 13, 2019]

There will be stories!
Speeches!
[yes we'll make them do this ::grin::]
Questions and Answers
Free imaginary food!

Feel free to head there now,
but the festivities start on Monday.

-----

Then starting Saturday, December 21st, our Woldian Slowdown begins along with our
YULETIDE CELEBRATIONS
in the Giggling Ghost.

ACDM Rob is in charge of the festivities in the Giggling Ghost during the Yuletide Slowdown. He will send out an email sometime before the 21st explaining how the Giggling Ghost activities will work.

As a reminder, all requirements to post daily in your Career game are banished until Monday, January 6, 2020. A reminder to begin posting will come out the weekend before to remind you.
During the Yuletide Slowdown:
--no game may be in combat
--no game may advance its story line in any significant way
--posting is allowed, but not required by players or DMs
--all games should be in a relatively safe location where those who desire may roleplay for fun

Everyone who wants to roleplay are encouraged to hang out and post as much as you like in the Giggling Ghost and participate in the activities happening there.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=12 ; d20+5=7 ; d20+5=8 ;
Sunday December 15th, 2019 8:59:33 PM
Caelwyn ignores the first noise, but the second creature's cry finally gets to him. He will still attempt to strike down one of the final creatures.

Attack 6,

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d8+3=11 ;
Sunday December 15th, 2019 9:00:26 PM
damage 11

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+3=16 ; d8+1=7 ;
Monday December 16th, 2019 10:57:07 AM
Still feeling yucky, 'Lil tries to stab one'a these things.

Hit AC 16 for 7 damage.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+4=24 ; d2+1=2 ; d20+2=12 ;
Monday December 16th, 2019 11:41:03 AM
Bigby will try to attack one the things. 24 (with sickened -2) 2 dmg (with -2). Wolfgang attempts a bite 12 (sickened)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+3=12 ;
Monday December 16th, 2019 1:31:10 PM
Sol follows up with a Scorching Ray on number 3, however, as seems to be a running theme, he misses.

"I apparently spoke too soon."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday December 16th, 2019 9:51:45 PM
Caelwyn winces, sure the creature will dodge his blow.

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d4=2 ; d8=7 ; d20+8=23 ; d4=2 ;
Monday December 16th, 2019 11:46:52 PM
Grindar, 'Lil, and Bigby finish off the two remaining creatures handily. Caelwyn tries, but is too sickened. Sol comes close with his scorching ray. Swift is glad to no longer have the things attacking him.

It does not take long for people's nausea to pass once the battle is over. Within a few minutes thereafter, Sol's stength begins to wane again. Meanwhile the party has a chance to tend their wounds.

As the party gets ready to move again, roll Perception DC:23 Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice the giant ticks dropping from the grasses around you. If you're attacked, you won't be flat-footed. }

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=8 ;
Tuesday December 17th, 2019 6:30:39 AM
Sol begins to fade.

"That was a nice break from the venom... too soon it is gone I fear..."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=10 ; 2d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ;
Tuesday December 17th, 2019 10:25:29 AM
'Lil remains as oblivious as ever: 10

She pats the stretcher as she watches her magic fade in Sol. "Ok, bud. Back on ya go. Grindar and I will get ya where we're going."

Lookin' around, she don't see no one hurt. If anyone is, she'll channel positive energy for'em and heal 6 damage.

*Look at those rolls up there. Good golly...

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=15 ;
Tuesday December 17th, 2019 11:38:32 AM
perception 15. "So we're good then? Keep on keeping on."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=26 ;
Tuesday December 17th, 2019 6:00:11 PM
Perception 26

Grindar is about to pick up his end of the stretcher, but notices something sketchy, and yells out, "Look alive guys, we have giant tick like things incoming!" as he brandishes Bwyell.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday December 17th, 2019 9:09:33 PM
"By Domi..." Caelwyn readies his shield and trident. "What isn't out to kill us out here..."

Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20=5 ;
Tuesday December 17th, 2019 9:22:39 PM
perception 8
Swift fails to see it himself but hears grindar and puts up his hands ready to attack anything that comes, he says nothing but has a resolute look on his face. "Another day in the life." he says.

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d6=4 ; d6=3 ; d20+2=6 ; d20+2=11 ;
Tuesday December 17th, 2019 11:21:31 PM
Before the party begins to get going again, 'Lil cures any minor hit point losses that occurred during the day's encounters. Sol fades as 'Lil's spell wears off. 'Lil pats the stretcher as she watches Sol. "Ok, bud. Back on ya go. Grindar and I will get ya where we're going."

Bigby says, "So we're good then? Keep on keeping on."

Grindar is about to pick up his end of the stretcher, but notices something sketchy, and yells out, "Look alive guys, we have giant tick like things incoming!"

Caelwyn and Swift react to Grindar's shout, still unsure where the giant tick like things are. "By Domi..." Caelwyn exclaims, "What isn't out to kill us out here..."

Had Grindar not noticed them, the tiny vermin might have had their feast without much effort. As it is, one attacks Grindar and one attacks Bigby, but neither succeed.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+5=24 ; d20+5=12 ; d4=3 ; d8+3=5 ; d8+3=7 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+5=7 ;
Wednesday December 18th, 2019 10:37:44 AM
'Lil sighs, then pats Sol on the head. "One sec, love. Some bugs need stabbin'."

She grabs Maya off her back and stands behind Grindar and Caelwyn. Her spear shoots out from between the two'a them and skewers one'a the flea things.

Hit AC 24 for 5 damage

AoO from having a reach weapon hits AC 12. Probably a miss.
Combat reflexes, just in case: hit AC 24 for 7 damage & Hit AC 7 - whiff

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+4=13 ; d2+1=3 ; d20+2=10 ;
Wednesday December 18th, 2019 11:35:42 AM
Bigby attempst an attack (13) and maybe hits? dmg: 3. Wolfgang attempts a bite at it (10). "First we are attacked from the water, then the land, now the air? What's next?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+7=21 ; d20+7=27 ; d8+4=6 ; d8+4=10 ;
Wednesday December 18th, 2019 5:54:24 PM
Grindar will attempt a full round action on the ticks, if one drops from his main hand attack, he will switch to a second tick for his off hand, otherwise he will send both attacks against just one.

main hand
hits AC 21 for 6 slashing damage

off hand
hits AC 27 for 10 slashing damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday December 18th, 2019 6:22:08 PM
Sol nods, and allows himself to drift a little, not really aware of what is going on around him.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=15 ; d8+3=7 ;
Wednesday December 18th, 2019 10:28:05 PM
Caelwyn strikes out with his trident, attempting to skewer a flea.

Attack 15, Damage 7

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d3=2 ; d20+2=22 ; d4=4 ; d20+8=20 ;
Wednesday December 18th, 2019 11:36:21 PM
Grindar obliterates one tick, and 'Lil wounds the other. Bigby, Wolfgang, and Caelwyn make good attempts, but miss. Sol is oblivious. Swift looks to make sure there are no more.

The wounded tick makes another attempt to bite Bigby, succeeding this time. Bigby is wounded (4 points damage), and the tick grabs him and starts draining blood (1 point constitution).

Only Bigby, 'Lil, and Caelwyn are in position to try melee attacks on the tick this round.
=====
Tick -- AC:16, 5 dmg taken

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+4=23 ; d20+4=7 ; d2+1=3 ; d20+2=11 ;
Thursday December 19th, 2019 12:00:28 PM
Bigby gets knocked around and he tries to attack back with two claws. 23, att, 3 dmg, 7 att. Wolfgang takes a bite, 11. Bigby feels a little woozy after the attack and says, "is it me or is something trying to drain me? This sucks."

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+5=24 ; d8+3=9 ;
Thursday December 19th, 2019 12:30:51 PM
'Lil delivers another pin-point stab from behind Caewyln, hitting AC 24 for 9 damage. Hopefully she don't stab through & hit Bigby.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday December 19th, 2019 5:24:18 PM
Feeling useless as he is forced to watch his friends attack the final tick, he prays they are able to dispatch it before anyone else gets hurt.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=10 ;
Thursday December 19th, 2019 8:08:52 PM
"Get off!" Caelwyn tries to skewer the tick and get it off of Bigby. Sadly, he misses.

Attack 12

DM Steve -- in the tall grass
Friday December 20th, 2019 12:32:16 AM
Bigby feels a little woozy after the attack and says, "Is it me or is something trying to drain me? This sucks."

Bigby injures the tick further, and 'Lil finishes it off. {b]Caelwyn[/b] tries to skewer the tick as well, but misses.

Grindar feels useless because he can only watch. But Swift is still watching for any others in the grass, and Sol is pretty out of it on the stretcher.

As the party catches their breath again, a large black raven flies overhead. After the party has seen it, it lands in the grasses nearby. Momentarily, Biel steps through the growth surrounding the party and says hello. He looks you over, noting minor wounds, then asks, "What happened to Sol?"

As Biel takes in the party's explanation of events, the squirrel you saw him with when you left him walks through the grasses on its hind legs and starts chittering at the druid. "Very well, Reech, go ahead," Biel says. "Pardon me. Reech says he wants a safe place to stay tonight. Can anyone give him some rope?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday December 20th, 2019 11:51:08 AM
'Lil wipes off Maya on the grass before puttin'er away.

She ain't got any rope, but she's got plenty'a questions. What's Biel doing here? He been following them? Why ain't he helping with all these varmints?

What's a squirrel going to do with rope? She hopes someone's got some; she's pretty curious about it.

"Sol got himself poisoned. Got the strength leeched right outta him. What're you doing here? I thought these other druids you sent us to didn't get along with you."

She pauses, "not that we ain't happy to see you or nothin'. Maybe this place will try a little less harder to kill us with you around."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday December 20th, 2019 1:05:28 PM
“I got some rope” Grindar offers, though he is as confused as everyone else as he hands it to the squirrel.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday December 20th, 2019 1:35:42 PM
Bigby pulls the creature off of him. and then slurs, "yeah, what are doing here." He has difficulty thinking straight. "maybe I should sit down for a second" and then he laughs, "I'm already sitting down on wolfgang."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday December 20th, 2019 5:13:59 PM
Sol simply makes a few grunts in response, as if to punctuate his poisoned self.

DM Steve -- in the tall grass
Saturday December 21st, 2019 12:05:09 AM
'Lil says Sol got himself poisoned, and starts peppering Biel with questions. Sol makes a few grunts in response, as if to punctuate his poisoned self.

Bigby pulls the remnants ofvthe tick off of him. and then slurs, "Yeah, what are doing here?" He has difficulty thinking straight. "Maybe I should sit down for a second. (laughs) I'm already sitting down on wolfgang."

Reech takes the rope Grindar gave him and casts a spell. At least, the chittering and gestures seem the Grindar to be like what wizards do, and at the end of it Reech throws one end of the rope jnto the sky, where it hangs.

"I will answer your questions, but first let's get to safety," Biel says. As everyone watches, Reech climbs to the top of the rope and disappears. At Biel's urging, the party does so, too, though they have trouble getting Sol up without dropping him.

The party finds themselves in a small, colorless -- not clear -- space. It is just large enough to accomodate the six party members, Wolfgang, and Reech comfortably. From within, the party can see what's going on within a few feet of the rope outside. "I can't join you," says Biel, "The magic only accomodates eight. But I will find you in the morning, and I will memorize a spell that will help Sol. Bigby should be okay with rest. To answer 'Lil's questions, I started looking for you when I felt the tug of the mutation bloom, because I knew you'd be in trouble without help. I'm glad I found you before night fell. Every creature within a hundred miles feels that tug, and the mutated ones go mad. Right now, Sol and Bigby must have rest, and it won't hurt any of you."

With that, Biel distorts and fades away while the grass is tossed around by a sudden wind. Reech pulls the rope in with the party, and they can no longer hear the Sargrass.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Saturday December 21st, 2019 11:51:51 AM
'Lil wonders what the heck a mutation bloom is. "Whatever it is, it probably ain't good," she says without warning.

She looks at her surroundings. They seemed good enough and was probably a lot safer than the grasses below. "Right, you two rest. Probably no fire tonight, what with no place for the smoke to go but down. Dry rations it is." She cracks open her pack and takes a cloth-wrapped bundle. She offers Reech a bit of hard bread and cheese. "Sorry dude. No nuts in here."

She lies back and relaxes, settling in for a long snooze...

***

See you folks after the slowdown. I don't tend to stick around during it. Have a merry Christmas & whatnot!

DM Steve -- in the tall grass
Tuesday December 24th, 2019 10:44:30 AM
Reech accepts the bread and cheese from 'Lil, and settles down to watch the slow migration of creatures below the "window" where his spell shows the grass.

DM Steve -- in the tall grass
Friday December 27th, 2019 6:51:16 PM
Perception DC:15 Highlight to display spoiler: {From above, it's easier to spot that there are occasional creatures moving through the grass, all headed the same direction.}

The light coming from the grasses fades quickly. The party can still dimly see each other and the window to the Sargrass is a dark rectangle in the floor of this place.

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d3=3 ;
Saturday January 4th, 2020 3:27:44 PM
The party stirs from their slumber as the light from the "window" grows. They all had a good night's rest. Sol has regained strength with his rest (1 point Strength restored, still 2 below normal). Bigby has regained the vigor that the tick drained away (1 point Constitution restored, back to normal). Caelwyn, Lil, Grindar, and Swift feel great.

Reech becomes very excited after looking down through the window. When everyone else looks down, they find there is a large, shaggy creature below them. If it stood, it would almost at their height.

Perception DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {There appears to be a wounded man under the creature.}

Know Nature DC: 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {The creature looks like a bear.} DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {But as it moves, you realize it also has bird-like features.}

Know Arcana DC: 23 or Spellcraft DC: 13 Highlight to display spoiler: {You have been in this rope trick for several hours. Unless Reech is exceptionally powerful -- well, you're already surprised it has lasted this long.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=21 ; d20+10=21 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+6=16 ; d8+6=12 ; d20-2=4 ;
Monday January 6th, 2020 6:20:03 AM
"What would cause such a strange migration, and what is this Mutation Bloom Biel mentioned?" (Perception 21) Grindar muses to himself before falling into a restful sleep.

Grindar awakens with Reech's excited chatter. "There's someone in trouble!", Grindar says as he notices the man under the bird-bear creature knowledge (perception 21, nature 17) He jumps to his feet while drawing Bwyell, and then jumps through the "window" attacking the beast with a two-handed overhand chop.

(Should be +9 not +6) Hits AC 19 for 12 damage

(Acrobatics check to land on his feet, 4) In his exuberance to try to save the man, Grindar fails to land on his feet and falls prone while landing.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=9 ; d20=14 ;
Monday January 6th, 2020 11:22:58 AM
'Lil looks down and sees a bear, but that's it. She ain't sure what's gotten into Grindar, but she ain't gonna let him go get'imself killed. She jumps down with Maya drawn.

She don't attack though. This thing's just sittin' here, right?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=23 ; d20+10=27 ; d20+2=19 ;
Monday January 6th, 2020 1:12:33 PM
perception 23, knowledge nature 27. Bigby nods at Grindars assessment. "there's some thing...and a it's got wings." Bigby and Wolfgang follow after Grindar. Bigby attempts to do a wild empathy with the beast. "please move away from the wounded man. We don't want to harm you but want to help the man."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=14 ; d20+11=24 ; d20+5=23 ;
Monday January 6th, 2020 6:45:05 PM
Perception - 14, Spellcraft - 24, Nature - 23.

Sol looks in wonder at the creature, and instead of "Jumping out" makes his way calmly down, he doesn't do anything, or attack but does cast Mage Armour on himself just in case this turns sour fast.

"It is a wonder it is taking to long for me to heal, and while still weak, I am at least a little closer to being full strength."

His movements still seem pained, and he's wearing precious little clothing or equipment, just the very bare essentials.

"Now, what is this creature doing?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=15 ;
Monday January 6th, 2020 8:55:03 PM
Caelwyn takes in the situation at once. "There's an injured man under that thing!" He immediately seizes his trident and shield, and hurries around to try to protect Grindar, should the animal turn on him.

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d20+8=24 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+14=15 ; d6+4=9 ; d6+4=8 ; d6=2 ;
Monday January 6th, 2020 11:14:54 PM
Grindar falls asleep wondering what a mutation bloom is, but has no sudden insight. In the morning, taking in the situation below, Grindar shouts, "There's someone in trouble!", and leaps onto the bear-bird creature.

'Lil and Wolfgang also jump down to the ground, but not directly into combat. Bigby and Caelwyn follow more cautiously, taking the rope down. "There's an injured man under that thing!"

Sol casts mage armor and climbs down. "It is a wonder it is taking to long for me to heal, and while still weak, I am at least a little closer to being full strength." Swift remains with Reech in the rope trick.

Grindar gets a solid hit on the unsuspecting creature, before falling at its feet (2 points non-lethal damage). Bigby tries to reason with it, "Please move away from the wounded man. We don't want to harm you but want to help the man," but there's no chance of that now. Caelwyn tries to protect Grindar, but cannot keep the beast from attacking.

Grindar's attack enrages the beast, which fights back with it's massive paws and a sharp beak. While the beak misses, both paws hit Grindar and the creature tries to hug Grindar to it. Grindar is hurt by the paws (17 damage total), but the creature's fur is slick with blood and Grindar slips free.

Grindar is prone.

=====
Ooc: Since they are not taking any other actions this round, Caelwyn and 'Lil have the opportunity to recover from jumping down if necessary. However, acrobatics checks vs DC: 15 will prevent them from taking 2 points non-lethal damage.
=====
Bear-bird -- AC: 17, damage: 12

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+2=13 ; d20+5=10 ;
Tuesday January 7th, 2020 2:07:16 PM
'Lil hopes this thing isn't that dude's pet. She doesn't stick the landing and gives her ankle a little twist. She winces, but pushes through it.

She takes a moment to look at the situation she finds herself in. Is that dude what was under this bear-thing wounded? If so, she attacks...poorly.

Hit AC 10 - miss.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=15 ; 4d6=13 ;
Tuesday January 7th, 2020 4:03:21 PM
Sol, seeing that the creature is now enraged, but he has no spells to pacify it, so he instead casts Scorching Ray.

"Grindar, perhaps next time we could let Bigby have a chat first?" he smirks as he speaks.

15 to hit, assuming a hit, 13 Fire damage.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=22 ; d20+6=12 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=6 ;
Tuesday January 7th, 2020 5:44:03 PM
Bigby sees that animal diplomacy is out. Goes for the attack. attack 22, 5 dmg, second attack 12. Wolfgang attempts to bite as well. att: 6

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 10/29 d20+9=22 ; d8+6=12 ;
Tuesday January 7th, 2020 6:17:33 PM
Grindar triggers an AOE by standing up, and then lashes out with another two-handed swing hitting AC 22 for another 12 damage, as he says, "Diplomacy takes to long, someone was in danger, and action was needed!"

OOC...Wild empathy allows you to make diplomacy checks with animals and magical beasts with animal intelligence, to adjust their attitude towards you. It takes 1 minute to adjust an attitude, otherwise Grindar may have tried the same thing, as it is a Ranger ability as well as a Druid ability.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d6=6 ; d20+2=20 ;
Tuesday January 7th, 2020 9:22:51 PM
Caelywn curses under his breath. "I wish we had talked this through before rushing in..." He hurries up and uses Lay on Hands on Grindar. He also looks to see what condition the wounded man is in, and if he is still in imminent danger.

Grindar receives 6 hitpoints

Perception 20 (not natural 20)

DM Steve -- in the tall grass d20+8=23 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=16 ; d20+8=16 ; d20+14=28 ; d6+4=6 ;
Tuesday January 7th, 2020 10:32:01 PM
Lil hopes this thing isn't that dude's pet. She doesn't stick the landing and gives her ankle a little twist. She winces, but pushes through it. She takes a moment to look at the situation she finds herself in. Then she attacks, but misses.

Sol, seeing that the creature is now enraged, casts Scorching Ray. It strikes the creature, and the smell of burnt fur permeates the area. "Grindar, perhaps next time we could let Bigby have a chat first?" he smirks.

Bigby sees that animal diplomacy is out, and goes for the attack. He damages the creature. Wolfgang attempts to bite but misses.

Grindarstands up, allowing the creature to attack, and then lashes out with another two-handed swing. His weapon bites into the beast again, less impressively than last time. "Diplomacy takes to long, someone was in danger, and action was needed!"

Caelwyn curses under his breath. "I wish we had talked this through before rushing in..." He hurries up and uses Lay on Hands on Grindar. He also looks to see what condition the wounded man is in, and if he is still in imminent danger. Unfortunately, the man appears to already be dead.

The creature attacks Grindar again, even angrier than before if that is possible. Perhaps this is to his advantage. It hits once and attempts to hug him with one of its paws, but is unable to do so without the other. Its remaining attacks glance off his armor. (Grindar takes 6 damage, and is healed 6 by Caelwyn)

The creature appears to be severely wounded.

=====
Bear-bird -- AC: 17 (touch 12), damage: 42

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 10/29 d20+7=10 ; d20+7=11 ;
Wednesday January 8th, 2020 1:24:19 PM
Seeing the creature on the ropes, Grindar attempts to finish the thing off, to end it’s suffering, and to avoid anymore damage to himself or his friends. He attempts a full round attack. However in his exuberance, he swings wild with both his primary and off hand attacks.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+5=8 ;
Wednesday January 8th, 2020 2:49:14 PM
'Lil continues stabbing the air around the bird-bear-thing.

Hit AC 8 - Miss

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+6=7 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=18 ; d6+1=2 ;
Wednesday January 8th, 2020 4:29:15 PM
"caw caw," Bigby belows as he attacks, hoping to throw the bird bear off his game. claw1 26, crit not confirmed 11, dmg 5, claw 2: 7. Wolfgang attempts a bite attack as well. bite: 18, dmg: 2

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=6 ;
Wednesday January 8th, 2020 5:16:26 PM
Sol shakes his head.

“I maybe sick, but that is no excuse! Oh well, what is done is done.”

Sol casts another Scorching Ray, expending his final level 3 spell slot, however this time his aim goes wide.

“I am glad to see that this illness had not impacted my ability to miss all things I aim at.”

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=22 ; d8+3=10 ;
Wednesday January 8th, 2020 10:40:56 PM
Caelwyn is ready to end this fight. He moves past Grindar and stabs at the creature, trying to draw its attention.

Attack 22, Damage 10

DM Steve -- in the tall grass
Wednesday January 8th, 2020 11:33:27 PM
Seeing the creature on the ropes, Grindar attempts to finish the thing off, to end it’s suffering, and to avoid anymore damage to himself or his friends. Unsuccessfully.

'Lil continues stabbing the air around the bird-bear-thing.

"caw caw," Bigby bellows as he claws the bird bear. It is still moving. Wolfgang bites as well. The creatures gets a glazed look and slows considerably, but is still moving.

Sol casts another Scorching Ray, however this time his aim goes wide. “I am glad to see that this illness had not impacted my ability to miss all things I aim at.”

Caelwyn is ready to end this fight. He moves past Grindar and stabs the creature, which collapses.

After a moment, the end of a rope drops down from above. Reech and Swift descend, after which the rest of the rope follows.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+8=17 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ;
Thursday January 9th, 2020 10:16:37 AM
'Lil goes to check on the dude who was under the bear-bird-thing.

Heal 17

Is he alive? Cool. 'Lil will heal him up, and Grindar too, with some positive energy. Actually, she'll do that regardless for Grindar. 5 HP healed.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=26 ; d20+2=13 ;
Thursday January 9th, 2020 2:01:35 PM
knowledge nature 26 to see what the creature is. Bigby will check to see if the human person is ok. heal skill 13.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29
Thursday January 9th, 2020 5:21:07 PM
Believing the man dead, Grindar kicks at a small rock, in frustration, sending it flying. He mumbles to himself, things like, "If I would have noticed sooner", and "I failed again". Gindar remembers to thank his friends for the healing, but it is pretty obvious that he is feeling pretty low, as he says, "This place kills whom ever it touches, why are we here!"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday January 9th, 2020 8:24:33 PM
Sol goes and puts a hand on Grindar’s shoulder.

“This is a dangerous place, but we are here because we can yet tame it, or learn to live in symbiosis with it, and we are the only ones willing to try and help people like him.” He indicates the body.

“While we may not have managed to protect him initially, but through our efforts we mayhaps be able to prevent others from succumbing to the same fate.”

DM Steve -- in the tall grass
Thursday January 9th, 2020 11:52:42 PM
'Lil goes to check on the dude who was under the bear-bird-thing, and helps Grindar with positive energy. Unfortunately, there's nothing to do for the dude.

Bigby examines the creature and also checks on the man. He decides that this must be an infamous owlbear.

Grindar kicks at a small rock, in frustration, sending it flying. He mumbles to himself, things like, "If I would have noticed sooner", and "I failed again". Gindar remembers to thank his friends for the healing, but it is pretty obvious that he is feeling pretty low, as he says, "This place kills whom ever it touches, why are we here!"

Sol goes and puts a hand on Grindar’s shoulder. “This is a dangerous place, but we are here because we can yet tame it, or learn to live in symbiosis with it, and we are the only ones willing to try and help people like him.” He indicates the body. “While we may not have managed to protect him initially, but through our efforts we mayhaps be able to prevent others from succumbing to the same fate.”

Caelwyn and Swift watch the surrounding grasses. Reech becomes excited, and soon you hear something approaching -- which turns out to be Biel.

He takes in the scene quickly. "Sorry I wasn't here earlier. And Sol, I didn't forget the spell you need. But something momentous has happened, and the news just reached me early this morning. It seems some of the most powerful heroes of the Wold, the Iron Dragons, broke into the prison and home of Marteaus. Kevintar, brother of Marteaus, former Twin Punisher of Gargul, has been released from his Bone Tower prison of the last few centuries. The Gods of Testing have all walked away in different directions. The Gods of Wold have held an enclave to discuss the fallout of recent events. Serenbeth and Wardd have been asked to rejoin the Gods of Wold. I cannot help but wonder if the mutation bloom fits into such tidings. But we will need to hurry now."

Biel casts a spell on Sol, who feels his strength return.

"The skirmishes you have had are only the beginning." As Biel says this, the party realizes that there have been frequent sounds of movement in the distance since they left their secure sleeping spot.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday January 10th, 2020 11:43:55 AM
'Lil was from the Iron Dragons' home town. She knew them pretty well...by reputation, of course. She never met'em in person. She did know that two'a them were followers of Wardd and Serenbeth. She wonders how it'll affect them.

Not long, though. She's got stuff to do. She starts by punching Grindar in the arm. "Come on, dude. Anyone who comes to this place knows it's dangerous. Sucks that dude is dead, but it is what it is. All we can do is keep tryin'a make a sanctuary here for good folks." She keeps Maya at the ready as she hears the movement. "Sounds like we got more work to do, eh? Let's keep moving."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday January 10th, 2020 12:35:11 PM
"well what do humans do? Bury the dead? Should we bury the guy? As for this owl bear, I wonder how it tastes." If the party has time and buries the dead, Bigby will strip some meat from the owlbear and try to preserve it or cook it. And then offer to others.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday January 10th, 2020 2:20:05 PM
'Lil immediately feels guilty. How could she forget to honor this dead guy? She makes a mental note to not be in such a rush and kneels down.

"Domi, don't know this guy's story. Maybe he deserves your admiration, maybe he don't. All I know now is that he's done with this life. Hopefully he spent it doing deeds that warrant some good attention in the next."

She stands. "We got time to bury him? We should if we can, but ain't no sense getting the rest of us killed." She looks to Biel. Surely the druid had some way to put a body under the dirt.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday January 10th, 2020 8:28:51 PM
Sol nods.

"I feel like we should bury him, assuming we have time, but with several of us working together it should not take too long."

He will do everything he can to help with his renewed (if still mediocre) strength.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29
Saturday January 11th, 2020 11:24:05 AM
Grindar perks up a little with his friends words of encouragement, and before anyone is able to answer the question as to whether they should bury the body, he gets on his hands and knees, draws one of his daggers, and starts digging a hole. “Remind me to buy a shovel, if this is going to be a normal part of our lives, mayhaps we should be better prepared”. He offers his other dagger to another who would wish to assist.

DM Steve -- in the tall grass
Saturday January 11th, 2020 1:20:10 PM
'Lil was from the Iron Dragons' home town, and ponders the news. Not long, though. She's got stuff to do. 'Lil punches Grindar in the arm. "Come on, dude. Anyone who comes to this place knows it's dangerous. Sucks that dude is dead, but it is what it is. All we can do is keep tryin'a make a sanctuary here for good folks." She keeps Maya at the ready as she hears the movement. "Sounds like we got more work to do, eh? Let's keep moving."

Bigby asks, "Well what do humans do? Bury the dead? Should we bury the guy? As for this owl bear, I wonder how it tastes."

Sol nods. "I feel like we should bury him, assuming we have time, but with several of us working together it should not take too long."

Grindar perks up a little with his friends words of encouragement, and before anyone is able to answer the question as to whether they should bury the body, he gets on his hands and knees, draws one of his daggers, and starts digging a hole. “Remind me to buy a shovel, if this is going to be a normal part of our lives, mayhaps we should be better prepared”. He offers his other dagger to another who would wish to assist.

Sol pitches in to help as best he can with his renewed (if still mediocre) strength. Caelwyn and Swift take positions to guard the diggers, just in case.

'Lil immediately feels guilty. How could she forget to honor this dead guy? She makes a mental note to not be in such a rush and kneels down. "Domi, don't know this guy's story. Maybe he deserves your admiration, maybe he don't. All I know now is that he's done with this life. Hopefully he spent it doing deeds that warrant some good attention in the next." She stands. "We got time to bury him? We should if we can, but ain't no sense getting the rest of us killed." She looks to Biel. Surely the druid had some way to put a body under the dirt.

Biel thinks for a couple of minutes, during which time the hole does not get bigger fast. The ground has lots of roots in it. And although they are mostly tiny roots, they still slow the digging. In the background, you hear the now-constant sounds of creatures moving through the grass, but they seem to be in the distance. Rarely does the sound get louder as if something is approaching, and it fades thereafter. There is no sense that things are avoiding the group, but they do not seem to be seeking you out, either.

Bigby strips some meat from the owlbear and saves it. As he does, he finds a necklace on the owlbear -- not around its neck, but stuck in its bloody and matted fur.

At the same time, Biel says, "Ok. I can bury him, but give me a moment... Since I can't do this often, I'm going to stay in the shape I take for a while. After the man is buried, continue on your way and I will follow you." With that Biel transforms into a small pile of dirt and stones, about the size of Bigby. As the group watches, he sinks into the ground, extends two "arms" back up to wrap around the body of the man, and slowly pulls it into the earth. Before long, the pile of dirt reappears, waves to you, and sinks back down.

The sound in the distance begins to get louder, and soon you make out a drumming to it.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Sunday January 12th, 2020 10:58:17 AM
Took him long enough, geez...

"Hey guys, that sounds pretty rhythmic. Animals don't usually do that, do they? Could be some kinda war band coming down on us. We should move."

She doesn't lead the way, though. Someone with better survival skills should do that.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20+10=27 ; d20+10=25 ;
Monday January 13th, 2020 6:29:06 AM
Grindar sheathes his daggers and draws Bwyell. he is torn as to whether he should take point as is his norm, or if he should take rear guard. Finally he says, "Caelwyn could you take rear guard?" He than takes point.
perception 27, survival 25

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=27 ;
Monday January 13th, 2020 11:33:34 AM
Bigby puts the meat away, "yum yum." Bigby pulls out the necklace from the fur. Looks at it 27 perceptions to see if there's any insignia or picture or some way to connect it to this body. "Hey guys I found this necklace on owlbear. Maybe it is important somehow. Sol or can you check it for magic?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+11=30 ;
Monday January 13th, 2020 6:14:40 PM
"Of course my friend." He takes the necklace and gives it a once over.

((Knowledge Arcana - 30))

"No, Lil, I do not believe animals are that rhythmic... this is potentially dangerous."

He takes a deep breath.

"I wish I had not exhausted my greatest magics on this poor creature now." He says, indicating the owlbear. "On the upside, I still have my mage armour."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday January 13th, 2020 8:33:30 PM
Caelwyn understands Grindar's feelings of grief and failure. "None of this was your fault, Grindar. All we can do is work harder in the future, all of us, to prevent as much suffering as we can. Take point, I've got the rear...clearly something is coming. We need to move."

DM Steve -- at the short grass d4=2
Monday January 13th, 2020 11:17:55 PM
Bigby puts the meat away. Bigby pulls out the necklace from the fur and looks at it to see if there's any insignia or picture or some way to connect it to this body.

Bigby -- Highlight to display spoiler: {While it is a nice-looking pendant, Bigby does not notice anything that seems specific to the body.} "Hey guys I found this necklace on owlbear. Maybe it is important somehow. Sol, can you check it for magic?"

'Lil says, "Hey guys, that sounds pretty rhythmic. Animals don't usually do that, do they? Could be some kinda war band coming down on us. We should move."

Sol tells Bigby, "Of course my friend." He takes the necklace and gives it a once over.

Sol -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Magic was used in the item's creation.}

To 'Lil, Sol says, "No, Lil, I do not believe animals are that rhythmic... this is potentially dangerous." He takes a deep breath. "I wish I had not exhausted my greatest magics on this poor creature now. On the upside, I still have my mage armour."

Grindar sheathes his daggers and draws Bwyell. He is torn as to whether he should take point as is his norm, or if he should take rear guard. Finally he says, "Caelwyn could you take rear guard?" He then takes point.

Grindar -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The "drumming" the group hears sounds like a very large creature running this way.}

Caelwyn understands Grindar's feelings of grief and failure. "None of this was your fault, Grindar. All we can do is work harder in the future, all of us, to prevent as much suffering as we can. Take point, I've got the rear...clearly something is coming. We need to move."

As the group forms up to move out, the sound grows louder. In addition to the drumming, there are sounds that could be breaking underbrush. Reech casts a spell that creates a shimmer in the air in front of him, and disappears into it. A fearful Swift quickly follows him, and both are gone.

Grindar leads the group in a direction he thinks safest, away from the path of the noise. The noise intensifies, then briefly stops. Perception DC: 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You can't make out exactly what, but something gargantuan runs through the area the group just left. The greens, purples, and browns of whatever it is are the same as the colors of the grasses, but the movement is not. It pauses there a moment, then resumes, this time travelling away along its original path.} The sound then resumes, slowly diminishing but moving faster than the party can.

Grindar continues to lead the group more or less perpendicular to the path taken by the great beast, until he sees something that makes him pause. The group can clearly see from the lighting that ahead of them, the grasses end. Approaching the edge of the grass, they realize that it doesn't actually end -- there is just a fifty foot wide swath of grasses missing in front of them. In this region, which stretches to the horizon on either side, the grasses are only one or two feet high instead of their usual ten to thirty. It is a different view of the grasses, allowing the group to see at once the range of colors they usually encounter one at a time. From deep indigo to turquoise, sapphire, and forest green; from burgundy to umber, sienna to broomstraw.

Although the group has done no more than poke their heads into the corridor to look around, they have seen many creatures are moving within it. It would be faster to travel in this corridor, but it points neither the direction the party was headed nor that the creatures all seem to be going.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Tuesday January 14th, 2020 12:04:19 PM
"Well that's weird. What do ya think caused that? We're not walkin' through that, are we? Seems like a trap to me."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=21 ;
Tuesday January 14th, 2020 5:12:59 PM
Sol nods.

"I agree with Lil, what ever caused the grasses to be this short is probably very large which makes it potentially dangerous. I am not certain is explicitly a TRAP per se, but it may be a migration path of some rather large animal."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=22 ;
Tuesday January 14th, 2020 5:53:05 PM
"Any idea what this is Sol? Let's take it with us. Might be helpful." Perception 22. I'm not getting a good vibe about this trail. Bigby looks at Sol, "very large, gargantuan large."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20+10=17 ;
Tuesday January 14th, 2020 7:07:25 PM
"Well", Grindar says, "I'm not sure what to think, the corridor would be a faster mode of travel, but it really isn't going the way we want. Should we continue as we were, or should we follow this corridor in hopes that it eventually leads where we wish to go?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday January 14th, 2020 10:09:10 PM
Caelwyn sees nothing but trouble here. "This isn't the right direction...and it's full of potential enemies. I say we look for another option."

DM Steve -- at the short grass
Tuesday January 14th, 2020 11:09:19 PM
'Lil says, "Well that's weird. What do ya think caused that? We're not walkin' through that, are we? Seems like a trap to me."

Sol agrees with Lil, "What ever caused the grasses to be this short is probably very large which makes it potentially dangerous."

Bigby, who is still hanging onto the necklace, looks at Sol, "I'm not getting a good vibe about this trail. Very large, gargantuan large."

Grindar says, "I'm not sure what to think, the corridor would be a faster mode of travel, but it really isn't going the way we want. Should we continue as we were, or should we follow this corridor in hopes that it eventually leads where we wish to go?"

Caelwyn sees nothing but trouble here. "This isn't the right direction...and it's full of potential enemies. I say we look for another option."

From the other side of the corridor breaks a large mass of creatures, all moving the same direction. Although there are many creatures, there's not much variety. Mostly insects and spiders of various sizes, although there are some you have never seen before. The strange ones are grotesque hopping beasts, slightly larger than a man. These have muscular rear legs. Their spindly forelegs end in wicked-looking claws, and their face -- which is as wide as their body -- appears to be all mouth.

The stampede of creatures is wide, and headed in the party's direction. They are not exactly attacking each other, and yet many have been injured. They will be upon the party soon. Perhaps the group could flee before them, but that would mean going in the direction all the creatures encountered over the past day have been going, not towards the druids.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Wednesday January 15th, 2020 11:09:11 AM
"Right then, detour! Let's move, dudes. I can only patch ya up so much. I can't put you back together or getcha un-eaten."

'Lil follows her own advice and starts moving wherever she needs to to get away from all that.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday January 15th, 2020 11:09:57 AM
"I can cast an entangle spell but that might not exactly solve our problem here."

ooc: sorry rushing out today can't make much of a thoughtful post.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20+10=21 ; d20+10=17 ;
Wednesday January 15th, 2020 6:02:30 PM
"It doesn't seem as though we have a choice, let's go!, Grindar says as he leads the way.

Perception 21, Survival 17

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday January 15th, 2020 7:34:06 PM
Sol nods and follows Grindar and Lil, without arguing, however, with a wide smile he turns to Bigby.

"I am not certain, all I know is magic was used in the creation of it."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Wednesday January 15th, 2020 9:45:22 PM
Caelwyn sighs. "This should be fun." He follows the rest of the party, keen to avoid the stampede of creatures. Clearly this is not something they can fight.

DM Steve -- at the short grass 2d4=4 ;
Wednesday January 15th, 2020 10:19:05 PM
Grindar leads the way. "It doesn't seem as though we have a choice, let's go!"

"Right then, detour! Let's move, dudes. I can only patch ya up so much." 'Lil follows her own advice and starts moving wherever she needs to to get away from all that.

Bigby offers, "I can cast an entangle spell but that might not exactly solve our problem here."

Sol nods and follows Grindar and Lil, without arguing. With a wide smile he turns to Bigby, "All I know is magic was used in the creation of it."

Caelwyn sighs. "This should be fun." He follows the rest of the party, keen to avoid the stampede of creatures.

The party turns and starts running away from the mass of animals. However, it becomes apparent that doing so will only delay meeting them. The mass in general is slightly faster than the party, although fastest of all seem to be a few giant ants. These quickly outstrip the party.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday January 16th, 2020 4:37:53 PM
I thought we were moving perpendicular to them, not away.

"Entangle may buy us enough time, Sol. I say cast it."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20+7=8 ; d20+7=25 ; d8+4=10 ;
Thursday January 16th, 2020 4:52:41 PM
“Seriously?!”, Grindar grunts in frustration, “I guess we fight!”. With that the half-orc stops running and spins around, knowing instinctively that his friends will either run past to support from the rear or stand beside him depending on their skill set. When the giant ants get within striking distance, Grindar will go full round attack.

Main hand
Natural 1 miss

Off hand
Hits AC25 for 10 slashing damage.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday January 16th, 2020 5:14:11 PM
Bigby casts entangle to slow the animals down heading towards us to move away. and then Bigby runs away with everyone else.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=3 ;
Thursday January 16th, 2020 6:18:07 PM
"Well blast it all! This is not good. I have expended my greatest arcane power, so will have to resort to less powerful means."

He stays with the party and cast Magic Missile at the closest Ant. ((3 Damage))

DM Steve -- at the short grass d20=16 ; d20=1 ; d20+1=12 ; d6+2=5 ;
Friday January 17th, 2020 12:32:56 AM
'Lil says, "Entangle may buy us enough time, Sol. I say cast it."

“Seriously?!”, Grindar grunts in frustration, “I guess we fight!”. With that the half-orc stops running and spins around, prepared to attack any ant that gets in distance.

Bigby casts entangle to slow the animals down heading towards us to move away.

Sol says, "Well blast it all! This is not good. I have expended my greatest arcane power, so will have to resort to less powerful means." He stays with the party and casts Magic Missile at the closest Ant.

The ant taking damage deviates just a little from its path to attack Sol. It bites him in the leg (6 points damage). The giant ant is now within striking distance, and Grindar attacks. He gets in a viscious slash with his off hand.

The stampeding creatures for the most part ignore the party and keep on going. Bigby's entangle has created an area that is free of the things. But some are pushing through the entangle. You have probably two rounds to act before they are upon you.

You see the creatures in the crowd streaming past slamming into and pushing each other frequently, but not stopping to fight with each other.

=====
Here is a map.

One ant has taken 13 damage (color coded on the map) and stopped to fight.

If the party was moving perpendicular, events work out the same although a bit sooner.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d8+3=5 ; d20+5=13 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=19 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=9 ;
Friday January 17th, 2020 1:47:29 PM
"Hey dudes, these things don't seem to wanna attack us unless we attack'em first." She pulls out Maya and advances next to Sol (can't edit map). She punches Sol lightly in the shoulder. "So stop tryin'a kill them."

CLW on Sol: 5 HP.

She stands ready w/ Maya, ready to attack anything that feels frisky.

***

Move: Move to P22
Standard: CLW

'Lil has 10' reach with Maya and combat reflexes. She can make up to 3 attacks of opportunity.

1: Hit AC 13 for 11
2: Hit AC 20 for 11
3: Hit AC 19 for 9

She'll only attack hostile critters, not ones just rushing by.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday January 17th, 2020 4:23:50 PM
Bigby will 5 step behind Caelwyn and then go full defense which should bump ac to 20. "he then yells out to the party, line up together and brace for impact guys.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday January 17th, 2020 6:59:49 PM
"OW!!" Sol says jokingly as he rubs his arm. "I was copying him!" as he points at Grindar.

"What do you suggest then?"

Sol will get behind Bigby and Lil, and just wait, as he cannot prepare a spell to be cast.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Friday January 17th, 2020 8:18:25 PM
"Wait! We can't outrun these things, and they seem to simply be running past...don't attack! Form a defensive circle, standing very close together with Sol in the center - we will simply fend off those that come near and keep them running by us."

Caelwyn waits to see if the others agree with his idea, but takes a defensive stance, with his shield up.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20=4 ; d20=20 ; d20=13 ; d8=6 ; d8=1 ; d8=3 ; d8=7 ;
Saturday January 18th, 2020 7:16:14 AM
"Well we need to finish off the one that bit Sol, before it does so again, and then hopefully the others will just head on past", Grindar reminds everyone, as he goes into another full round attack.

Main hand
4+7=11 for 10 damage

Off hand
natural 20, 20 (not natural) to confirm) confirmed 23, unconfirmed 5

DM Steve -- at the short grass d20=3 ; d20+3=5 ;
Saturday January 18th, 2020 4:03:12 PM
'Lil pulls out Maya and advances next to Sol. "Hey dudes, these things don't seem to wanna attack us unless we attack'em first." She punches Sol lightly in the shoulder. "So stop tryin'a kill them." She casts CLW on Sol (restores 5 HP).

Bigby steps behind Caelwyn and then go full defense. He then yells out to the party, "Line up together and brace for impact guys."

Sol says jokingly as he rubs his arm. "OW!! I was copying him!" as he points at Grindar. Sol gets behind Bigby and Lil, and waits.

Caelwyn advises, "Wait! We can't outrun these things, and they seem to simply be running past...don't attack! Form a defensive circle, standing very close together with Sol in the center - we will simply fend off those that come near and keep them running by us." Caelwyn waits to see if the others agree with his idea, but takes a defensive stance, with his shield up.

Grindar reminds everyone, "Well we need to finish off the one that bit Sol, before it does so again, and then hopefully the others will just head on past", as he goes into another full round attack and does just that.

Although Grindar takes care of one ant, he attracts the attention of another in the process. It does not manage to strike him, nor does "Lil manage to strike it, although both tried.

'Lil stands ready with Maya, ready to attack anything that feels frisky. She'll only attack hostile critters, not ones just rushing by.

=====
Here is a map. I think it is now editable. You have the chance to position yourselves before facing the stampede. Please also check the status in the header for your post.

The dead ant is no longer indicated on the map. The red 8 is a fresh ant sniffing around Grindar.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Sunday January 19th, 2020 9:02:57 PM
Caelwyn continues his defensive stance, trying to shelter Sol and himself behind his shield. "Stick together...if we get separated, this could get ugly..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29
Monday January 20th, 2020 4:22:53 AM
Grindar takes a 5ft step, disengaging from the ant and getting into a single file line with his friends, hoping his friends are right and the rest of the critter horde will simply move on by..

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Monday January 20th, 2020 10:20:18 AM
'Lil wonders if they could just start some kinda grass fire. That'd probably kill all'a them too, though. Bad idea.

She looks at all them tangled up critters. Even if they was just gonna stand here and hope all them critters passed'em by, they'd probably pissed off all them ones what got tangled.

Was that squirrel that cast that rope spell still around? That would work. If not, maybe it was time to move.

"Guys, unless someone's hiding that squirrel, this ain't no place to be. Even a few feet over there would be better."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday January 20th, 2020 11:06:11 AM
"I can cast another entangle spell if there's a direction we want to go?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday January 20th, 2020 1:50:43 PM
Sol nods.

"I think we just want to keep them away from us Bigby my friend. Can you perhaps use entangle to funnel them away from us, or use it like a barrier to keep them away from us?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday January 20th, 2020 8:03:55 PM
Caelwyn adjusts his stance, gripping his shield tighter. "Anything to make a barricade, or dissuade them from coming this way, would be helpful!"

DM Steve -- at the short grass d20=5 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+21=31 ; 2d6=9 ; 2d6=10 ; 2d4=6 ; 2d4=6 ; 2d4=3 ; 2d4=4 ;
Monday January 20th, 2020 8:45:33 PM
Grindar disengages from the ant gets into a single file line with his friends, hoping his friends are right and the rest of the critter horde will simply move on by. The ant, however, has already been disturbed and is in no forgiving mood. It is not able to pierce Grindar's armor this round. It is, however, slammed into by several of the stampeding creatures and injured as a result.

The horde has managed to force its way through the entangled area, and as each creature comes out of the area it resumes stampeding.

Caelwyn continues his defensive stance, trying to shelter Sol and himself behind his shield. "Stick together...if we get separated, this could get ugly..."

Bigby offers, "I can cast another entangle spell if there's a direction we want to go?"

'Lil wonders if they could just start some kinda grass fire. That'd probably kill all'a them too, though. Bad idea.
She looks at all them tangled up critters. Even if they was just gonna stand here and hope all them critters passed'em by, they'd probably pissed off all them ones what got tangled. "Guys, unless someone's hiding that squirrel, this ain't no place to be. Even a few feet over there would be better."

Sol nods. "I think we just want to keep them away from us Bigby my friend. Can you perhaps use entangle to funnel them away from us, or use it like a barrier to keep them away from us?"

Caelwyn adds, "Anything to make a barricade, or dissuade them from coming this way, would be helpful!"

As the party discusses options, Grindar finds several of the creatures slamming into him. Although Grindar bears the brunt of the rushing horde, the rest of the group is also knocked about.

=====
The damage each character takes is identified below. You are allowed a fortitude save vs DC:30 for half damage. If you want to rearrange the party at this point, anyone who tries to move against the stampede (any direction but down on the map) must make a reflex save vs. DC:25 or be knocked prone.

Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {10 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +18 on this save.}
Caelwyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {6 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +19 on this save.}
Bigby and Wolfgang: Highlight to display spoiler: {6 points damage -- each, I'm afraid. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, Bigby gains a +21 on this save and Wolfgang does, too, thanks to some help from Bigby. If you decide to move, Wolfgang gets a +4 on the reflex roll.}
'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {3 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +17 on this save.}
Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {4 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +11 on this save.}

Here is the map.

Cantankerous ant (red) -- AC: 15, 4 damage

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 22/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 24/27 -AC 17 d20+28=35 ; d20+24=39 ;
Monday January 20th, 2020 10:56:40 PM
fort 35 bigby, fort 39 wolfgang. Everyone go into a full defensive position, unless you got a better idea. Bigby casts another entangle spell to try to buy the team more time. "If I had more time to prepare different spells, then a pit might work, Bigby thinks out loud," but alas what good is wishful thinking going to do for them right now, Bigby thinks to himself. Brace yourselves for another impact.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 5/29 d20+21=41 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+7=20 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=8 ;
Tuesday January 21st, 2020 7:12:39 AM
Fort save 41(nat 20)

Grindar grunts as he takes the hit from the stampede. Seeing that the ant refuses to give up, he goes attacks with both ends of Bwyell.

Main Hand
Hits AC 19 for 7 slashing damage

Off Hand
Hits AC 20 for 8 slashing damage

'Lil - (Carl) - 24/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+21=34 ;
Tuesday January 21st, 2020 11:28:19 AM
'Lil grunts as she's knocked around by critters. She keeps it together and stays on her feet, though. She takes a moment to nod in appreciation as Grindar cuts down that ant that won't give up.

Bigby's plan to make another clearing for them is as good as any. She waits for him to cast, then moves when he's done. She ain't quick enough on her feet to avoid being knocked down unless she gets real lucky, so she doesn't try.

OOC: I'm not sure where it's being cast, but 'Lil will move there.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 22/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 24/27 -AC 17
Tuesday January 21st, 2020 12:49:07 PM
Bigby casts entangle to overlap with the other entangle but a little bit further ahead so that the party can slowly move ahead. around 12 s towards w. "I still got one more so not sure if this is gonna get us anywhere quick, but it's the only idea we got for now and hopefully keeps us alive."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 10/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+12=26 ;
Tuesday January 21st, 2020 5:55:52 PM
Sol is knocked around and unable to avoid the damage he simply tries to stay with Lil and Grindar as he is not capable on his own and will no doubt be trampled to death if he's not careful.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 2/27; CMD: 15 d20+26=27 ;
Tuesday January 21st, 2020 9:34:54 PM
Caelwyn grits his teeth as the creatures smash into him. He holds his shield high, trying his best to protect Sol and the others along with himself.

Fortitude save - natural 1

DM Steve -- at the short grass d20+3=4 ; d20-2=4 ; 2d6=3 ; 2d4=5 ; 2d4=6 ; 2d4=5 ; 2d4=4 ;
Tuesday January 21st, 2020 10:27:14 PM
Bigby casts another entangle spell to try to buy the team more time. If I had more time to prepare different spells, then a pit might work, but alas what good is wishful thinking going to do for them right now, Bigby thinks to himself. Brace yourselves for another impact. "I still got one more so not sure if this is gonna get us anywhere quick, but it's the only idea we got for now and hopefully keeps us alive."

Grindar grunts as he takes the hit from the stampede. Seeing that the ant refuses to give up, he goes attacks with both ends of Bwyell, killing the ant.

'Lil grunts as she's knocked around by critters. She keeps it together and stays on her feet, though. She takes a moment to nod in appreciation as Grindar cuts down that ant that won't give up. Bigby's plan to make another clearing for them is as good as any. She waits for him to cast, then moves when he's done. She ain't quick enough on her feet to avoid being knocked down unless she gets real lucky, so she doesn't try.

Sol is knocked around and unable to avoid the damage he simply tries to stay with Lil and Grindar as he is not capable on his own and will no doubt be trampled to death if he's not careful.

Caelwyn grits his teeth as the creatures smash into him. He holds his shield high, trying his best to protect Sol and the others along with himself.

A new threat appears among the creatures, unnoticed in the grasses until it was almost upon the party -- a giant flying caterpillar. It seems to have taken a dislike to Caelwyn. It attempts to bite, ineffectually, whereupon it thrashes around, also with no effect.

The stampeding animals continue to slam into the group this round, but at least at the end of it there is a clear space -- one that will remain clear for about two rounds judging by the previous spell.

=====
The stampede damage each character takes is identified below. You are allowed a fortitude save vs DC:30 for half damage. If you want to move anywhere except the color-coded critter-free area, you must make a reflex save vs. DC:25 or be knocked prone. You may reach that area and move in it without problem.

Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {3 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +18 on this save.}
Caelwyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {5 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +19 on this save.}
Bigby and Wolfgang: Highlight to display spoiler: {6 points damage -- each, I'm afraid. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, Bigby and Wolfgang gain a +17 on this save. If you decide to move, Wolfgang gets a +4 on the reflex roll.}
'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {5 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +17 on this save.}
Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {4 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +11 on this save.}

Here is the map. You are in RND5.

Flying caterpillar (red) -- AC: ??, no damage

'Lil - (Carl) - 21/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+21=41 ; d20+5=9 ;
Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 1:10:13 PM
Save: 41

'Lil grunts a bit as the critters keep bashin' into'er, but she's tough. There's a clear spot now, so that's good. She waits until the four critters that weren't tangled up pass before headin' over there.

In the meantime, she makes a stab at the caterpillar, but it's bad (Hit AC 9).

Once she's moved, she turns and prepares herself in case the bug chases'em.

Using previously rolled AoOs that weren't used yet:

Hit AC 20 for 11
Hit AC 19 for 9

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 16/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+24=26 ; d20+20=37 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+6=8 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=4 ; d20+10=29 ;
Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 3:05:06 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang attack the flying catepillar. fort 26, 37. Only wolfgang takes half. claw 18, dmg 5, claw 8 miss. Wolfgang bite 17, 4 dmg if hit. If the creature is dead by 'Lil will just move, otherwise won't be able to. 29 reflex if can move.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 7/29 d20+21=27 ; d20+9=13 ; d8+6=7 ;
Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 5:50:43 PM
Grindar takes a two handed swing at the caterpillar before rushing through the opening into the clear space.

Hits AC 13 for 7 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 6/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+12=28 ; d20+3=8 ;
Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 6:02:32 PM
Sol again is bashed around, being seriously injured at this point makes an attempt to move onto the critter free area, however he fails to move and is knocked prone with a loud crunch.

He looks bruised and battered and seriously injured.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 19/27; CMD: 15 d20+26=30 ; d6=1 ;
Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 9:38:54 PM
Caelwyn only takes a small hit from the animals. He looks in disgust at the flying caterpillar. "Well let's get rid of that thing before it hurts someone!" He is about to stab it, but then sees Sol. "Sol, get up!" He makes an action to help pull Sol to his feet, covering them with his shield and using Lay on Hands as he does so.

Fortitude save 30

Sol take 1 point of health (sigh...)

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 7/29 d20+5=15 ;
Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 9:44:45 PM
Forgot the fort save for half. Didn’t matter, failed it anyway.

DM Steve -- at the short grass
Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 10:31:19 PM
'Lil grunts a bit as the critters keep bashin' into'er, but she's tough. There's a clear spot now, so that's good. She makes a stab at the caterpillar, but misses. She then waits until the critters that weren't tangled up pass before headin' where it's clear. Once she's moved, she turns and prepares herself in case the bug chases'em.

Bigby and Wolfgang attack the flying caterpillar while they're getting buffeted by the passing horde. Bigby claws the caterpillar once, and Wolfgang gets in a bite. They have no problem moving to the clear spot.

Grindar takes a two handed swing at the caterpillar before rushing through the opening into the clear space. He misses. (Grindar was successful on his save.)

Sol again is bashed around, being seriously injured at this point. He is able to move into the critter free area without problem. He looks bruised and battered and seriously injured.

Caelwyn only takes a small hit from the animals. He looks in disgust at the flying caterpillar. "Well let's get rid of that thing before it hurts someone!" He is about to stab it, but then sees Sol. He helps Sol move, using Lay on Hands as he does so. (Sol: gain 1 point of health)

Although wounded by Bigby and Wolfgang, the caterpillar follows Caelwyn. This gives Lil the opportunity to skewer it. As it dies, the caterpillar gives off an acrid smell.

The group is out of the stampede for the moment, but it still surrounds them. Elsewhere in the clear zone, a mound of dirt and rock rises from the ground and turns into Biel. The group has a round to move and prepare before the stampede returns.

=====

Here is the map. You are in RND6.

'Lil - (Carl) - 21/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Thursday January 23rd, 2020 3:48:09 PM
'Lil grunts as the pulls Maya outta that smelly caterpillar. "Gross," she exclaims as she whips the spear around. A trail of ichor follows it. Hopefully none'a it gets on her dudes.

She's real glad to see Biel for once. "Hey Mr. Druid dude! You gotta wall spell or somethin' handy? Maybe more'a them rope spells? I'll be darned if I'm going out trampled by giant ants."

***

OOC: Don't forget, we re-roll any 1s from healing spells.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 7/29
Thursday January 23rd, 2020 6:42:55 PM
Grindar nods his head as Lil talks to Biel. "I don't know how many more of these hits I can take!"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 6/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday January 23rd, 2020 6:57:06 PM
Sol takes a few moments to breath before he stands up, as he was knocked down as he made it into the critter free area.

"This is not safe place to be... does anyone have any ideas on what we can do? I am nearly out of magical resources."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 16/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17
Thursday January 23rd, 2020 7:30:18 PM
"hang in there my friends, I don't know the answer but I'm hoping Biel does."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 19/27; CMD: 15 d6=5 ;
Thursday January 23rd, 2020 11:22:46 PM
Caelwyn looks around. "Perhaps we should reform to the east, on the edge of the approaching group? Let's just not be right in the middle!" He hopes the others will join him and move out of the direct path of the approaching animals.

Re-rolled 1 on healing from last round - Grindar, take 5 health rather than 1

DM Steve -- at the short grass d20=8 ;
Friday January 24th, 2020 12:25:26 AM
'Lil grunts as the pulls Maya outta that smelly caterpillar. As she whips the spear around, a trail of ichor follows it. Hopefully none'a it gets on her dudes. "Hey Mr. Druid dude! You gotta wall spell or somethin' handy? Maybe more'a them rope spells? I'll be darned if I'm going out trampled by giant ants."

Grindar nods his head as Lil talks to Biel. "I don't know how many more of these hits I can take!"

Sol takes a few moments to breath before he stands up, as he was knocked down as he made it into the critter free area. "This is not safe place to be... does anyone have any ideas on what we can do? I am nearly out of magical resources."

Bigby says, "hang in there my friends, I don't know the answer but I'm hoping Biel does."

Caelwyn looks around. "Perhaps we should reform to the east, on the edge of the approaching group? Let's just not be right in the middle!" He hopes the others will join him and move out of the direct path of the approaching animals.

Biel casts a spell before answering, "Protect these guys." Three creatures just like Reech appear -- perhaps Reech is even one of them. Know arcana DC:26 or spellcraft DC:16 Highlight to display spoiler: {Biel cast one of the Summon Fey Friend spells.}

As you prepare for another onslaught of creatures, Biel quickly casts another spell. A couple of spiders make it through the entangled area before Biel is done, but they don't seem interested in you. The area that Bigby had entangled grows much denser, and the creatures within it are reduced to a crawl.

Meanwhile, the bipedal squirrel guys are casting as well. Whatever they are doing takes a little longer. The air begins to shimmer and swirl in an area in front of the party, and as it swirls an ethereal humming begins -- so soft you aren't sure at first whether you're really hearing it, but shifting slowly in pitch and tempo. The swirling area elongates away from the group, out into the stampede, where creatures run through it without noticing. The end of this area in front of you slows even as its outer rim speeds up, such that you end up with a shimmering "tube" or "pipe" about six feet in diameter leading away from you as far as you can see into the grass. You realize the squirrel guys are humming along with the music the tube is making.

"Please, enter the fey corridor," Biel says, indicating the shimmering tunnel.

====

The re-rolled healing Caelwyn provided went to Sol, take 5 health rather than 1.

Your characters can spend three rounds in recovery or preparation -- healing, etc.

'Lil - (Carl) - 21/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15
Friday January 24th, 2020 5:42:16 PM
"Enter the Fey Corridor..." 'Lil thinks to herself. "I ain't no bard, but if I ever start a band, I know what I'm callin' our first song."

'Lil ain't sure about this, but it can't be worse than getting trampled by critters. She enters the fey corridor, humming a little tune as she goes.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 6/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+11=18 ; d3=2 ; d20+11=12 ;
Friday January 24th, 2020 5:49:15 PM
Sol, apparently due to the injuries is unable to recognise the spell.

"What is that spell?!? It seems remarkable useful."

Once the corridor appears.

"That one as well. But I think we have little choice, though I could use a touch of healing if anyone has anything to spare."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 16/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17
Friday January 24th, 2020 5:55:24 PM
"ok, ok, let's get out of here. doot doot doo...doot doot doo," hums bigby along with 'Lil.

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d6=3 ; d6=3 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ;
Saturday January 25th, 2020 8:52:32 AM
'Lil starts to harmonize with Bigby when she notices Sol's hurt. So is everyone.

She places a hand on the holy symbol tattooed on her chest. At appropriate moments during the song she's hummin', she lets positive energy flow outta her.

Channel 1: 6 healing
Channel 2: 5 healing

What has it got in its pockets?

DM Steve -- at the short grass
Saturday January 25th, 2020 2:07:03 PM
'Lil ain't sure about this, but it can't be worse than getting trampled by critters. She enters the fey corridor, humming a little tune as she goes.

Sol, apparently due to the injuries is unable to recognize the spell. "What is that spell?!? It seems remarkable useful. . . That one as well. But I think we have little choice, though I could use a touch of healing if anyone has anything to spare."

Bigby hums along with 'Lil. "ok, ok, let's get out of here. doot doot doo...doot doot doo."

'Lil starts to harmonize with Bigby when she notices Sol's hurt. So is everyone. She places a hand on the holy symbol tattooed on her chest. At appropriate moments during the song she's hummin', she lets positive energy flow outta her.

=====
The party is healed (11 points each) by 'Lil's ministrations.
Each party member receives 1,800 XP (detailed in e-mail). This puts the PCs at 4th level.
Bigby gains 1 Hero Point for his use of entangle to save the party.
Normally, this would be time to rest, recover, and buff but you're in no position to rest or recover.
=====

The party enters the fey corridor. From within it things look pretty much the same. The squirrel guys keep up their humming as they walk along the corridor, but the first thing the characters notice is that they're still headed for the middle of the stampede. Suddenly, a six foot tall rabbit -- very well dressed, with an exquisite pair of scabbards strapped to his sides -- blocks the way. "Biel? Why have you brought a creature of the Warper-Sarr here of all places?"

The rabbit is in the area of the stampede, but the stampeding creatures move right through him without causing him any harm. Biel walks up to it, with a look of confusion on his face that suddenly clears. The stampede moves through Biel as well. "The beastman is Bigby, a young druid. He is no more a creature of the Warper-Sarr than you or I. You know I would not be helping him or his friends without learning where they stand first. Just because the Warper-Sarr made the beastfolk does not mean they all follow him."

While the rabbit and Biel talk, the party members notice that there are other creatures in the area -- creatures they had not seen from outside of the fey corridor. Obviously intelligent animals, mostly, although there are a few little people that you see, too. You find that by concentrating on the creatures around you, the Sargrass and stampede seem to fade in the background. The occassional ant or spider walking through you can still be a bit disconcerting.

Grindar or perception DC:18 Highlight to display spoiler: {“Oops don’t go that way, you’ll die mortal,” says a tiny woman with dragonfly wings, prompting a laugh from two friends with her.}

The discussion between the rabbit and the druid seems to have reached some agreement. The rabbit addresses the group, "We will help you find the druids. Follow us, but stay with the group." Several of the others begin humming themselves, and as you move through this place you find you are moving through what you can see of the Sargrass at a faster pace than you can normally manage.

Caelwyn or perception DC:18 Highlight to display spoiler: {“Ooo, you're cute. Are you married?” asks a small woman with grasshopper legs. "Now Katy, I saw him first!" another replies. The two glare daggers at each other for a moment, then seem to forget the quarrel. "No, seriously," says the first after the other turns away.}

After a short while, Biel asks, "Bigby, would you see if your compass still works here?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+11=19 ;
Sunday January 26th, 2020 10:54:29 AM
Grindar smiles at the tiny fey lady, and says "Thanks for the guidance!". He then follows his friends down the corridor. When the rabbit speaks against Bigby, he is infuriated that someone would speak ill of one he considers a brother, and would lay down his life for, but he allows reason to rule the day, and let's Biel do the talking.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Sunday January 26th, 2020 5:08:55 PM
Bigby takes note of what the druid's talk about when they mention Bigby and tucks that away for later. Bigby takes out the compass and checks to see if it works and then shows the group.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+7=9 ; d20+7=11 ;
Monday January 27th, 2020 10:40:22 AM
'Lil's so busy lookin' at the inside'a bugs that she don't notice anything. She's super glad they're not running her over anymore, so there's that.

Her shackles get up when this dumb bunny starts talkin' about Bigby. 'Lil holds her tongue, barely, but she sticks close to her wolfy friend while they're in this tunnel, in case any other dumb critters get the same ideas.

Edit: Header update

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=15 ; d20+1=16 ;
Monday January 27th, 2020 5:55:20 PM
Sol perks up a little,

"Thank you for that healing Lil. It is good to feel relatively safe again."

Because of the healing, he is however oblivious to the other things going on.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Monday January 27th, 2020 8:47:48 PM
Caelwyn smiles, in what he hopes is a gracious but non-encouraging way, at the...grasshopper woman. "I'm flattered, my good lady. I'm not married, but my life is dedicated to the service of Domi. His sacred work is my passion."

He looks around, fascinated at what he sees around him. He takes in the rabbit's words about Bigby with less ire than his friends. He knows little about Bigby's people, but it seems clear that not long ago, they may have been in the service of one this creature considered hostile. It makes sense to take precautions.

DM Steve -- at the short grass
Monday January 27th, 2020 11:52:39 PM
Grindar smiles at the tiny fey lady, and says "Thanks for the guidance!". He then follows his friends down the corridor. When the rabbit speaks against Bigby, he is infuriated that someone would speak ill of one he considers a brother, and would lay down his life for, but he allows reason to rule the day, and let's Biel do the talking.

Bigby takes note of what the druid's talk about when they mention Bigby and tucks that away for later. Bigby takes out the compass and checks to see if it works and then shows the group. Biel gives a satisfied grunt when he sees that the compass points the direction the party is moving, then says, "Let's check it again in fifteen or twenty minutes."

'Lil's so busy lookin' at the inside'a bugs that she don't notice anything. She's super glad they're not running her over anymore, so there's that. Her shackles get up when this dumb bunny starts talkin' about Bigby. 'Lil holds her tongue, barely, but she sticks close to her wolfy friend while they're in this tunnel, in case any other dumb critters get the same ideas.

Sol perks up a little, "Thank you for that healing Lil. It is good to feel relatively safe again." Because of the healing, he is however oblivious to the other things going on.

Caelwyn smiles, in what he hopes is a gracious but non-encouraging way, at the...grasshopper woman. "I'm flattered, my good lady. I'm not married, but my life is dedicated to the service of Domi. His sacred work is my passion." He looks around, fascinated at what he sees around him. He takes in the rabbit's words about Bigby with less ire than his friends. He knows little about Bigby's people, but it seems clear that not long ago, they may have been in the service of one this creature considered hostile. It makes sense to take precautions.

The party finds that they are walking through the stampede much faster than a horse can gallop over good ground, although they do not feel themselves exerting more than they would for a lazy stroll. As you settle in for the hike, Biel starts explaining. "You may not have heard them called the planes of existence, but you're familiar with the Wold and the Lands of Rest. Well, between these lands are a number of other places, collectively known as the shadowlands. Right now you are in the shadowlands somewhere between the Wold and the Fae Realm. The Fae Realm gets really close to the Wold in some places and times, so we are right now as close to the Wold as we can be without getting trampled. And one thing some Fae have the ability to do, like our friends the diddles here, is manipulate the shadowlands -- they can close off pockets from the Fae Realm and the Wold, or they can connect them through corridors. No one remembers what the Fey Corridor used to connect, it faded away from lack of use ages ago. But the corridor remains, and it is useful. Like right now, when we're using it to create a shortcut to the druids that is safe from the creatures there."

Bigby or Perception DC:18 Highlight to display spoiler: {Bigby finds himself walking alongside a small man, a full head shorter than Bigby himself, dressed in leaves and smudged with dirt. He is clearly afraid of Bigby, and even more so of Wolfgang, but he says, "Long-winded, isn't he? I like your wolf. Is he your brother?"}

The stampede outside is thinning, but that is by no means reassuring. From out of nowhere a large chitinous claw crashes down into the grass, connected to a house-sized crab. You can hardly see what it's fighting. There is something there, but you get only vague impressions of movement -- shimmers in the air, grass being crushed. The party has moved on before you can tell which creature appears to be winning.

"As for the creatures there," Biel gestures to the lessening horde outside the corridor, "they are being affected by one of the Warper-Sarr's creations -- a mutation bloom. " He thinks a bit before going on, "I expect you've faced some odd things in the last day or two. The Warper-Sarr has mutated a number of creatures around these parts -- changing them, usually in ways that don't do them any good. One of the things he does to change creatures is the mutation bloom. It's a flower. Before it blooms, it attracts creatures from far around it. Intelligent creatures can tell something's going on and resist it. Animals often have enough intelligence to avoid it. But mutated creatures -- it tugs at them more strongly somehow. Not only tugs at them, but makes them violent. The mutations will generally attack anything they come across. When a powerful enough mutation encounters a number of creatures that haven't mutated, those creatures run away of course. in time, the result is a stampede. All this means that a large number of creatures approach the mutation bloom -- some violent monstrosities, some just trying to escape the violence. And after a few days, the flower blooms. Everything nearby when the flower blooms changes. Every animal within range mutates or dies."

Perception DC: 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {Many of the fae are fascinated by what is going on outside the corridor. You feel the party could travel even faster if the fae weren't taking time to gawk.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17
Tuesday January 28th, 2020 6:21:45 AM
"If this is the Warper-Sar's idea of progress, I am forced to believe he isn't right in the head", Grindar says after hearing Biel's words, and seeing for himself the destructive force the immortal power has unleashed.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday January 28th, 2020 1:12:24 PM
Bigby turns to smaller man, "This is Wolfgang. yeah he's me brother for sure, or am I your brother eh?" Bigby scratches behind Wolfgangs ear. "so, what you so scared of?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=9 ; d20+8=10 ;
Tuesday January 28th, 2020 1:23:59 PM
'Lil scratches'er head. "Makes sense in a sick kinda way. Speed up mutations, then make'em fight so the strongest survive. It's like evolution, only faster. I guess I'm beginin' to see the philosophy behind it, but if they don't evolve the noble and ignoble races the same as all these critters, eventually them evolved critters is gonna be a real big threat to them. Puttin' those folks in danger like that counts as evil in my book, but I ain't from around here." She shrugs and keeps on walkin', continuing to be oblivious to everything going on around her.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=13 ; d20+1=2 ;
Tuesday January 28th, 2020 4:43:54 PM
Sol looks somewhat uncertain, if not, appalled by the callous disregard for life and the idea of forcibly mutating creatures.

"That is... horrible... we should make haste back to the druids, we do not wish to remain here longer than is necessary. Is there no way to stop a... bloom as you call it?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15
Tuesday January 28th, 2020 9:03:00 PM
Caelwyn is also disturbed by the Warper-Sarr and his idea of progress. "I knew I didn't like the Warper-Sarr very much. Biel, how did you know where to find us?"

DM Steve -- at the short grass
Tuesday January 28th, 2020 11:28:05 PM
The party seems to find the Warper-Sarr's mutation bloom to be abhorent -- at least as described by Biel.

Grindar says after hearing Biel's words, and seeing for himself the destructive force the immortal power has unleashed, "If this is the Warper-Sar's idea of progress, I am forced to believe he isn't right in the head."

'Lil scratches'er head. "Makes sense in a sick kinda way. Speed up mutations, then make'em fight so the strongest survive. It's like evolution, only faster. I guess I'm beginin' to see the philosophy behind it, but if they don't evolve the noble and ignoble races the same as all these critters, eventually them evolved critters is gonna be a real big threat to them. Puttin' those folks in danger like that counts as evil in my book, but I ain't from around here."

Sol looks somewhat uncertain, if not appalled, by the callous disregard for life and the idea of forcibly mutating creatures. "That is... horrible... we should make haste back to the druids, we do not wish to remain here longer than is necessary. Is there no way to stop a... bloom as you call it?"

Caelwyn is also disturbed by the Warper-Sarr and his idea of progress. "I knew I didn't like the Warper-Sarr very much." But he diverges from that thought, "Biel, how did you know where to find us?"

Biel replies that he is sorry it took so long to find the group after teling you he would follow, but the senses of an elemental do not work well at distinguishing a small group in a large stampede. It wasn't until Bigby;s entangle that he was able to guess where you must be.

Bigby turns to a small man, about two feet tall, and explains, "This is Wolfgang. yeah he's me brother for sure, or am I your brother eh?" Bigby scratches behind Wolfgangs ear. "So, what you so scared of?"

The little guy defensively responds that he's not scared before admitting that, yes, he is a bit. "It's just -- well, foxes, wolves, dogs -- they've been a trial to my family over the years. You're so much like them -- but Biel called you a druid. The druids have always helped us."

Outside the corridor, creatures are still moving in the Wold. These are mostly mutants, looking like odd combinations of other things you have seen but not like things you can identify. There is quite a lot of bloodshed.

Perception DC: 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Although this event clearly affects the animals, there are no signs of it affecting the plants.}
Perception DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The fae have slowed. You are still moving quickly, but not as quickly as you were.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+9=29 ;
Wednesday January 29th, 2020 7:35:33 AM
Perception 29

”Is there a reason the bloom doesn’t affect the plants, or hasn’t that been figured out yet, and is there a reason we are slowing?”, Grindar asks as a way to clarify his observations. He is relieved that, for the moment anyway, they don’t have to deal with the mutants.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=28 ;
Wednesday January 29th, 2020 12:33:44 PM
'Lil senses the same stuff Grindar does. Mostly, she just watches the fighting since there ain't much else to do. It's weird, walkin' through a nightmare like this. Mutants everywhere tearin' each other apart while her and her dudes just mosey through it all. She's kinda glad it's a blur.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=20 ;
Wednesday January 29th, 2020 1:28:57 PM
perception 20. Bigby shakes his head in agreement to what Grindar says. To the other little guy, " I am a druid yes and we won't harm you unless you attack our pack. So nothing to worry about. Can you tell me more about your family?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=21 ;
Wednesday January 29th, 2020 10:42:39 PM
Caelwyn considers Grindar's question, even as he observes the same thing. "I wonder...does the Warper's power extend only to animals, or are they simply the first trial of his strength?"

DM Steve -- at the short grass
Wednesday January 29th, 2020 11:46:11 PM
Grindar asks as a way to clarify his observations, ”Is there a reason the bloom doesn’t affect the plants, or hasn’t that been figured out yet, and is there a reason we are slowing?” He is relieved that, for the moment anyway, they don’t have to deal with the mutants.

'Lil senses the same stuff Grindar does. Mostly, she just watches the fighting since there ain't much else to do. It's weird, walkin' through a nightmare like this. Mutants everywhere tearin' each other apart while her and her dudes just mosey through it all. She's kinda glad it's a blur.

Bigby shakes his head in agreement to what Grindar says. To the other little guy, he says, "I am a druid yes and we won't harm you unless you attack our pack. So nothing to worry about. Can you tell me more about your family?"

Biel reacts to the question, calling to the rabbit-man, "Doughty, your army is straying." The rabbit is obviously annoyed at the rebuke.

Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {Most of the fey have been using Sylvan when they talk to each other, and Common when they talk to the party. When Grindar points it out and Biel reacts, they realize they have been paying more attention to what is going on in the Wold than they have been to reaching the druids. Much the way 'Lil is, they have been watching the fighting.}

Caelwyn considers Grindar's question, even as he observes the same thing. "I wonder...does the Warper's power extend only to animals, or are they simply the first trial of his strength?"

"Dearie," says Caelwyn's tiny admirer, "of course the Warper-Sarr can affect more than animals. His first show of strength was the bloodgrass." The other fey react to the mention of bloodgrass. It was nasty stuff, that spread mutation to whatever it touched.

Doughty starts to answer Biel, embarassed, when he stops and gets a strange look like he's listening to something faint. Pretty soon everyone feels something -- not a sound, but the odd tugging at your mind that's been going on the past day becomes very noticeable and more intense. The fey all look at each other like something has happened, but you don't know what. "It's different!" . . . "The bloom -- that's not a normal mutation bloom." . . . "This one feels pure." Doughty makes a decision, "We're going back. Sorry Biel, but it's more important that we learn what is happening than visit the grove right away."

The fey troop turns around, and Biel advises everyone to stick with them. It's dangerous to wander here without an experienced guide.

'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a raccoon in the Wold -- a raccoon with glowing eyes. It tracks you as the group turns around, and starts to follow as you leave but is unable to keep up.}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=12 ; d20+1=7 ;
Thursday January 30th, 2020 2:21:31 AM
Sol nods at the decision to head back, despite is injuries and reservations.

"Of course, we must understand what his happening. Please, lead on."

As the group begins to head back, a great smile appears on his face, he's clearly rather excited.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17
Thursday January 30th, 2020 10:07:37 AM
”First we run from, now we run too, I’m beginning to feel like a yo-yo!”, Grindar exclaims, ”I struggle to see how what I’m witnessing is pure!” In spite of his misgivings, Grindar goes along with the rest.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday January 30th, 2020 10:52:48 AM
Well don't that beat all.

'Lil makes her way over to Biel, who's the only one in this whole sorted mess'a druids she trusts even a little. "Hey Biel, should that raccoon over there be able to see us? Cuz I swear the thing's trackin' me."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday January 30th, 2020 11:51:38 AM
"what is a pure mutation?" Bigby continues on with the group.

DM Steve -- at the short grass d20+4=19 ; d3=1 ; d20=3 ;
Thursday January 30th, 2020 11:58:44 PM
Sol nods at the decision to head back, despite is injuries and reservations. "Of course, we must understand what his happening. Please, lead on." As the group begins to head back, a great smile appears on his face, he's clearly rather excited.

”First we run from, now we run too, I’m beginning to feel like a yo-yo! I struggle to see how what I’m witnessing is pure!” In spite of his misgivings, Grindar goes along with the rest.

Bigby continues on with the group. "what is a pure mutation?"

'Lil makes her way over to Biel, who's the only one in this whole sorted mess she trusts even a little. "Hey Biel, should that raccoon over there be able to see us? Cuz I swear the thing's trackin' me." Biel looks to see what 'Lil is talking about, but by this time the raccoon has been left behind. "I've never heard of anything in the Wold being able to see into the fey corridor, except when the opening is created," he replies.

The whole time the party has been travelling with the troop, the squirrel-things ("diddles," Biel had called them) have been humming their tune. One of them suddenly stops, and as the change in sound draws your attention you see he is face to face with a raccoon like 'Lil described, and the raccoon attacks him. The diddle takes a minor wound, but the troop finds itself in the Wold. The tug of the mutation bloom is more compelling than ever.

The party find themselves in front of a giant with long and shaggy red hair and the biggest axe they've ever seen. The giant seems startled, and has not reacted to their appearance.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=2 ;
Friday January 31st, 2020 2:26:25 AM
Sol simply smiles, and waves at the Giant before calling out to him.

"Hello my friend! How are you today? You seem confused, is there anything we can do to help?"

((2 on Diplomacy Check. Eek!))

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=13 ;
Friday January 31st, 2020 7:22:39 AM
Grindar’s hackles go up at the sight of a favored enemy (humanoid: giants), and Bwyell is in his hands in a flash. He tries to identify the Giant, before charging him. (Knowledge nature: 13)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday January 31st, 2020 11:47:54 AM
Bigby readies himself to follow Grindars lead. He figures a ranger knows how to deal with giants.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=19 ; d8+3=6 ;
Friday January 31st, 2020 2:26:56 PM
"Woah," exclaims 'Lil as she finds herself outside they fey corridor. She pulls Maya from her back and sticks by Sol, ready to attack if anything comes near.

Move: Get next to Sol.
Readied action: stab anything in range. Hit AC 19 for 6.

DM Steve -- at the short grass
Saturday February 1st, 2020 1:50:54 PM
Sol simply smiles, and waves at the Giant before calling out to him. "Hello my friend! How are you today? You seem confused, is there anything we can do to help?" The giant glares at Sol. It is a small giant, only 12' tall or so. His axe is also about 12' and undoubtedly weighs more than Bigby.

Grindar’s hackles go up at the sight of a favored enemy (humanoid: giants), and Bwyell is in his hands in a flash. He tries to identify the Giant, before charging him. Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {This is s firbolg in its natural state. Had it known people were coming, Grindar thinks the firbolg would have chosen a less threatening appearance. As giants go, it is less threatening than most.}

Bigby readies himself to follow Grindars lead. He figures a ranger knows how to deal with giants. The giant's eyes widen upon seeing Bigby, then it looks really confused upon seeing the other creatures near Bigby.

"Woah," exclaims 'Lil as she finds herself outside they fey corridor. She pulls Maya from her back and sticks by Sol, ready to attack if anything comes near. She dispatches the "raccoon" attacking the creature that's her best way out of here.

The giant makes a gesture of covering its mouth and points into the grasses. The party sees only grass in that direction, but hears a low -- growling? moaning? humming? -- sound. The giant slowly parts about 10' of grasses with the axe to let folks see. After that, behind you a voice quietly but firmly gives orders. Must be the rabbit. "Bell, get the flower. Agatha, guard her. We need an escape ready. Heal the wounded or give what aid you can." As the little woman with dragonfly wings who spoke to Grindar when the party first entered the fae corridor flies into the breach made by the axe, a fascinatingly hideous three-foot tall humanoid follows her.

Perception DC:12 determines if you are able to get a decent angle in the crowd. Highlight to display spoiler: {The grasses part to reveal a trampled and bloody bowl scattered with bodies. The bowl must be a hundred feet or more across. In the center is a glowing flower, it's brightness noticeably increasing as you look. Among the bodies are some creatures that are still alive, others you cannot be sure of. The creatures that are still alive are no longer fighting -- they are staying in place, quivering, and some are writhing as they slowly change. Bell moves slowly and carefully along the axe and into the bowl. Her protector moves only a few feet at a time, but is deceptively fast while moving. As you watch the pair, Bell takes several rounds to fly up to the flower and begin cutting it from the stem.}

While the above his happening, the entire group feels itself healed of all wounds. The diddles begin humming quietly. The party member who makes the highest Charisma check is offered a hug by a young woman with a fox'es tail. The other members may choose from a small pouch, a rock the size of a sling stone, a clover leaf, and a feather on a short string.

Those who can see Bell: Highlight to display spoiler: {As Bell completes cutting the flower from the stem, she makes a bee-line back to the troop of fey. She almost makes it to the grass before the mutating creatures in the bowl react. Agatha keeps a path open for Bell.} And amid sudden howls of fury, Bell flies through the grass and into the now-open fae corridor, carrying a glowing flower as big as she is. As the giant prepares to attack whatever may follow, the view disappears. The other fey creatures begin streaming into the corridor themselves as quickly as they can.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+11=30 ; d20=19 ;
Saturday February 1st, 2020 4:16:01 PM
Perception 30, Charisma check 19

"Nothing to worry about with the giant guys, I'm pretty sure he isn't a threat to us", Grindar shares with his friends. When the firbolg clears the view for him, Grindar clearly sees Bell, and finds himself cheering her on, in his mind, finding he feels a sense of relief when she makes it back into the fey corridor safely. If he wins the hug, he will except it whole heartedly, otherwise he will except the feather on the short string. He follows the fey back into the corridor.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+4=12 ; d20+2=22 ;
Sunday February 2nd, 2020 11:11:25 PM
Charisma check 12

Perception check natural 20

Caelwyn accepts the sling-stone-sized rock,feeling utterly bemused at what is happening. "Not quite sure what this is all about, but something tells me we should be ready for trouble..." He prepares his trident and shield for action.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=12 ; d20+1=17 ;
Monday February 3rd, 2020 10:49:25 AM
Perception: 12
Charisma: 17

'Lil wipes Maya off on nearby grass as she observes what the giant's showing them. "I think that flower's the mutation bloom Biel was talkin' about." She looks down at her fingers to make sure they ain't changing into claws or wings or tentacles or nothin'. "Think I'm still me. That's good. What's this clover leaf for?" she asks as it's pressed into her hand. She looks around. "We supposed to be headin' back into that fey tunnel too?" 'Lil's super confused about all this.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=20 ; d20+1=18 ;
Monday February 3rd, 2020 4:24:39 PM
Charisma Check - 20
Perception Check - 18

Sol smiles at the Giant, and watches what happens with a renewed interest, seeing the flower pulsing seems to interest him.

"Shall we take a closer look or do we think that is a bad idea?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=28 ; d20=9 ;
Monday February 3rd, 2020 5:44:08 PM
perception 28. Charisma 9. Bigby didn't want a hug anyhow. "So...how much does that axe weigh?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 40/40; CMD: 15 d10=8 ; d10=1 ;
Monday February 3rd, 2020 7:47:13 PM
Caelwyn grips his trident, waiting to see what emerges...

OOC: Rolls on hit dice to upgrade my HP two levels (I never did it for 3rd level...)

Roll 1 - 8, Roll 2 - 1

DM Steve -- at the short grass
Monday February 3rd, 2020 11:49:59 PM
"Nothing to worry about with the giant guys, I'm pretty sure he isn't a threat to us", Grindar shares with his friends. When the firbolg clears the view for him, Grindar clearly sees Bell, and finds himself cheering her on, in his mind, finding he feels a sense of relief when she makes it back into the fey corridor safely.

Caelwyn also gets a clear view -- in fact, the entire party does.

'Lil wipes Maya off on nearby grass as she observes what the giant's showing them. "I think that flower's the mutation bloom Biel was talkin' about." She looks down at her fingers to make sure they ain't changing into claws or wings or tentacles or nothin'. "Think I'm still me. That's good."

Sol smiles at the Giant, and watches what happens with a renewed interest, seeing the flower pulsing seems to interest him. "Shall we take a closer look or do we think that is a bad idea?" Biel answers, "Go out among the mutating beasties while the fairy lass collects the magic that's hlding them in thrall?" No one else is making a move to enter the area. In fact, the fey seem eager to be leaving as soon as they can.

Bigby watches, but his mind's on other things. [/b]"So...how much does that axe weigh?"[/b]

Grindar accepts the hug whole-heartedly while watching Bell, and follows the fey back into the corridor when she returns. Grindar -- Highlight to display spoiler: {As he receives the hug, Grindar realizes that the woman hugging him is hollow -- she has no back. As she holds him, the woman says something in a language Grindar does not know. He feels more confident afterward. Grindar has a +2 luck bonus on all saving throws and attack rolls until further notice.}

Caelwyn accepts the sling-stone-sized rock, feeling utterly bemused at what is happening. "Not quite sure what this is all about, but something tells me we should be ready for trouble..."[b] He prepares his trident and shield for action. Caelwyn -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The little man who gives Caelwyn the stone apologizes for not having anything else that might be of use. If thrown or slung, the stone will grow in size before hitting its target and does 2d6+4 damage (plus strength bonus).}

[b]"What's this clover leaf for?" 'Lil asks as it's pressed into her hand. She looks around. "We supposed to be headin' back into that fey tunnel too?" 'Lil's super confused about all this. 'Lil -- Highlight to display spoiler: {"Doughty says do what we can to help. This is what I can. We don't fight well, prefer to confuse enemies. With this you will have good luck. But first, I think, we run." 'Lil gains a +4 bonue to her next three saving throws, her next three attack rolls, and her next three skill checks.}

Bigby has a pouch thrust upon him by what could be Bell's sister. Bigby -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The little woman explains that this is a pouch of pixie dust. If Bigby puts it on an arrow or crossbow bolt, the creature struck by the arrow will probably forget what it was doing. It takes a standard action to put dust on the arrow/bolt, which much be fired in the following round for the magic to work. There is enough dust for a dozen uses. The dust will disappear in a day or two if not used.}

Sol is handed a feather on a short string. Sol -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The little grasshopper-man who gives Sol the feather tells him that it will allow him to vanish from one spot and appear in another, but will only work one time. He appears up to 30' from where he vanished, and may use the magic as a free action.}

. . . Amid sudden howls of fury, Bell flies through the grass and into the now-open fae corridor, carrying a glowing flower as big as she is. As the giant prepares to attack whatever may follow, the view disappears. The other fey creatures begin streaming into the corridor themselves as quickly as they can. From the other side of the grasses there is now the sound of pursuit, but the party makes it into the fey corridor before anything comes into view. Ahead of the party, a little sprite perches on Biel's head, looking back and talking to the others. Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {The sprite is telling his fellows that the creatures are following them, although he'd not sure that the creatures are in the fae corridor. The group discusses illusions to lure the creatures off, and a couple of times Sol has to tell his friends to veer left or right while the illusions do something else, but the creatures keep up. The fey decide that as long as they have the flower, they aren't going to shake these things. The sprite reports that the creatures must have gotten into the corridor, because they are keeping up. Sol also learns that no one has seen Agatha or Cronk }

As the troop runs, Sol occasionally directs the rest of the party to keep one direction or the other. After he does this, the party sees themselves and the rest of the troop heading some other way, only to find after a moment that they've managed to stay with the troop after all. It gets confusing, but stops after a while. The party has no time to look back as this occurs.

Howls continue to pursue them.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+9=27 ;
Tuesday February 4th, 2020 5:55:27 AM
With Bwyell in hand, Grindar keeps running but stays towards the back of the party along side Caelwyn. He is ready to turn and face whatever seems to be chasing them if needed.

Perception 27

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday February 4th, 2020 3:32:49 PM
"thanks." Bigby puts the pouch away and continues on.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday February 4th, 2020 4:45:02 PM
'Lil tucks the clover behind her ear, glad to have a bit o' luck on her side during all this hubbub. She runs along with the rest of her dudes, staying just ahead of Grindar and Caelwyn. She's ready to turn and fight should the need arise, but she's so far outta her element that she ain't makin' that call without good reason. For now, she books it.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday February 4th, 2020 5:07:09 PM
Sol smiles a wide smile when he receives the feather.

"Thank you, kindly."

As Sol guides the others he tries to keep them in a tight group, avoiding the edges of the corridor wherever possible.

"We must keep moving, lest these beasts catch up with us!"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 40/40; CMD: 15 d20+2=4 ;
Tuesday February 4th, 2020 10:16:51 PM
Caelwyn is glad to receive the rock, as it may prove useful. He stays with Grindar toward the back of the group, ready to defend the rear of the party if necessary.

Perception 4

Emptying of pockets

DM Steve -- at the short grass
Tuesday February 4th, 2020 11:37:39 PM
. . . Howls continue to pursue them.

The party is running near the back of the fey troop. With Bwyell in hand, Grindar keeps running but stays towards the back of the party along side Caelwyn. Grindar is ready to turn and face whatever seems to be chasing them if needed. Caelwyn stays with Grindar toward the back of the group, ready to defend the rear of the party if necessary. Grindar -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Although Grindar has not turned to see them, which would mean slowing, he estimates that the party is in a near-stampede situation again.}

'Lil runs along with the rest of her dudes, staying just ahead of Grindar and Caelwyn. She's ready to turn and fight should the need arise, but she's so far outta her element that she ain't makin' that call without good reason. For now, she books it.

Bigby continues on.

As Sol guides the others he tries to keep them in a tight group, avoiding the edges of the corridor wherever possible. "We must keep moving, lest these beasts catch up with us!"

The path the group is travelling begins to show a patchy, fog-like appearance. Sol -- Highlight to display spoiler: {From his understanding of Sylvan, Sol realizes that the other fey are talking about the diddles becoming anxious, and how it's going to affect their control of the corridor. Before Sol voices a warning, however, Biel does.} Biel yells, "Prepare for battle!" Creatures are slipping through the "fog", moving from patch to patch, newly appearing, or disappearing. It's late now to be outrunning the creatures, they're around the troop of fey and the party. There is little in the way of fighting, though -- just running. The diddle's humming goes out of tune, and the party finds themselves dumped back into the Wold once again. They are better prepared for it this time.

Here is a map.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=19 ; d8+3=8 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+6=23 ; d8+3=4 ; d8+3=7 ; d8+3=5 ;
Wednesday February 5th, 2020 10:59:24 AM
"On your flank, Cae!" calls out 'Lil as a mutant appears right behind her paladin dude. She strikes out at Maya, skewering the thing (hopefully!).

Hit AC 20 for 8 damage.

She moves up between her dudes, prepared to stab any mutant what tries to eat'em.

AoO w/ combat reflexes & 10' reach:

Hit AC 26 for 4 damage
Hit AC 14 for 7 damage
Hit AC 23 for 5 damage

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=18 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+4=14 ;
Wednesday February 5th, 2020 1:41:55 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang will ready an attack for anything that comes near him and Sol. 18 att, 5 dmg, wolfgang bite 17, 5 dmg, 14 trip roll.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=19 ; d8=8 ;
Wednesday February 5th, 2020 5:41:23 PM
Worried that this may become another stampede, Grindar yells out, "We need to protect our Fey friends" He than steps forward and attacks a mutant with a two handed attack.

Hits AC 19 for 8+7=15 slashing damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 40/40; CMD: 15 d20+8=18 ; d8+3=6 ;
Wednesday February 5th, 2020 9:30:23 PM
"By Domi!" Caelwyn is taken aback by the sudden appearance of the mutant directly next to him. He immediately stabs at it with his trident, eager to move on once he has dispatched it.

Attack 18, Damage 6

DM Steve -- at the short grass 2d4=6 ; d20=15 ; d20+2=10 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=17 ; d20+5=13 ; d6+1=5 ;
Thursday February 6th, 2020 12:01:33 AM
"On your flank, Cae!" calls out 'Lil as a mutant appears right behind her paladin dude. She strikes out at Maya, skewering the thing. She moves up between her dudes, prepared to stab any mutant what tries to eat'em. As the mutants rush in, she wounds two more.

Bigby and Wolfgang will ready an attack for anything that comes near him and Sol. Each of them successfully strikes the same mutant, wounding it.

Worried that this may become another stampede, Grindar yells out, "We need to protect our Fey friends!" He then steps forward and attacks a mutant with a two handed attack, disabling it.

"By Domi!" Caelwyn is taken aback by the sudden appearance of the mutant directly next to him. He immediately stabs at it with his trident, eager to move on once he has dispatched it.

Heading Grindar's words, Sol does his best to defend himself (total defense, +4 to AC).

It is indeed another stampede, and each of the party members takes 6 damage (fortitude save + AC vs DC:30 for half damage; this also affects the animals). Aside from the wounded, the mutants run past the party. (Don't worry, it looks lihe there are plenty more coming.) Other than the one that Grindar saved -- a surprisingly aggressive little man less than a foot tall -- the fey of all sizes have disappeared into the grasses.

Although wounded, Biel casts a spell, causing the grasses the mutants are running through to grow incredibly dense. "That will slow them considerably. Enough, at any rate, that they won't be able to trample us sheerly by numbers."

The little man pokes one of the mutants with his little sword, without obvious affect.

The mutants fight back in their various ways. Bigby dodges a bludgeoning tail. Caelwyn is bitten (for 5 points) by a creature that now seems to be mostly mouth. One that 'Lil hit finds Grindar closer, but misses him with its claw -- one claw that is suddenly bigger than its others. The big one grows a whip-like limb from its back to attack 'Lil, but seems not to have mastered it's use yet. The one that Grindar struck moves away, managing only five feet of travel despite growing extra legs to help make the journey.

=====
Mutants, AC 15:
Q33 Dmg - 14
O36 Dmg - 4
P36/37 Dmg - 5
N31 Dmg - 10
O37 Dmg - 15 (moving away)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=12 ; d3=1 ; d3=3 ;
Thursday February 6th, 2020 5:08:16 AM
Sol takes a five foot step back to O33, then cast's Ray of Frost at the mutant next to Bigby (12 to hit Touch AC for 1 damage)

"Why can we not get a simple break to recover! I do hope our entire time here in the Sargrass will be fraught with such dangers!"

'Lil - (Carl) - 33/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+23=34 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=12 ; d8+3=7 ; d8+3=4 ;
Thursday February 6th, 2020 11:29:52 AM
Fort save 36 - pass (forgot the clover)

"Everybody slowly move this way," says 'Lil, motioning north. "Let'em keep movin' up towards us!"

OOC: With reach and combat reflexes, 'Lil gets to stab critters with 5' reach a lot if we keep'em moving.

She takes her own advice, taking a 5' step north before continuing to stab the mutant by Caelwyn.

Move: 5' step north
Standard: Attack Q33 - Hit AC 21 for 7 damage

AoO + Combat reflexes w/ 10' reach:
Hit AC 13 - miss
Hit AC 15 for 4 damage
Hit AC 12 - miss

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=26 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+7=25 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=15 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+4=12 ;
Thursday February 6th, 2020 12:14:13 PM
Bigby will claw 26, 4 dmg, and claw 25, 5 damage, while Wolgang will bite 15, 5dmg, trip roll 12, and they will 5' step north as 'Lil suggests.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 26/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+23=25 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+8=22 ; d8+4=9 ; d8+4=8 ;
Thursday February 6th, 2020 5:58:05 PM
Grindar takes a 5 foot step to get closer to LIl and the others, while trying to keep himself between the little fey guy and the majority of the mutants. he goes full round attack on the regular mutant next to him, though he will direct his off hand towards the $ mutant if the regular one drops on the first hit.

main hand
Hits AC 19 for 9 slashing damage

off hand
Hits AC 22 for 8 slashing damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 40/40; CMD: 15 d20+8=12 ; d8+3=6 ;
Thursday February 6th, 2020 9:27:13 PM
Caelwyn realizes that he and Lil are about to be charged by a rather large mutant, and concentrates his attacks on the nearest normal mutant, trying to finish it off quickly. He steps forward and attempts to stab it with his trident.

Attack 12, Damage 6

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15
Thursday February 6th, 2020 9:27:49 PM
OOC: Caelwyn HP and header update

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+8=18 ;
Thursday February 6th, 2020 10:36:55 PM
fort 18.

DM Steve -- facing mutants d20+5=6 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=19 ; d4=4 ;
Thursday February 6th, 2020 11:13:02 PM

Sol takes a step, then casts Ray of Frost at the mutant next to Bigby. The ray seems to have no effect. "Why can we not get a simple break to recover! I do hope our entire time here in the Sargrass will be fraught with such dangers!"

"Everybody slowly move this way," says 'Lil, motioning north. "Let'em keep movin' up towards us!" 'Lil proposes a strategy that plays to her strengths. She is unable to take her own advice and step north, however, because Sol is where she wanted to be. She continues to stab the mutant by Caelwyn, killing it.

Bigby, with his claws, and Wolgang with his bite tear down the mutant they were facing.

Grindar steps closer to LIl and the others, while trying to keep himself between the little fey guy and the majority of the mutants. He goes full round attack on the regular mutant next to him, killing it in two blows.

Caelwyn realizes that he and Lil are about to be charged by a rather large mutant, and concentrates his attacks on the nearest normal mutant, trying to finish it off quickly. He steps forward and attempts to stab it with his trident. Unfortunately, he is not successful.

A handful of mutants squeeze out of the thick grass, while more take their place at its edge. Most of these mutants continue on, too few in number to stampede. One shows an interest in the little fey man and receives an ineffective jab from Maya for its curiosity. It attacks the fey, which easily eludes the mutant. Deciding that this time it would be better to be discreet, the fey joins Grindar. Meanwhile, the large mutant grows a second mouth and attacks. It misses both Caelwyn and Grindar with its bites, but lashes 'Lil with its whip (4 damage). The mutant Grindar had previously injured starts digging into the ground, making slow headway away from the fight. Biel pulls a potion out of his gear.

Mutants, AC 15:
Q33 Dmg - dead
O36 Dmg - dead
P36/37 Dmg - 5
N31 Dmg - dead
O37 Dmg - 15 (moved away)
M35 Dmg - 0

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=15 ; d8+3=7 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=20 ; d20+6=8 ; d8+3=10 ; d8+3=6 ;
Friday February 7th, 2020 10:30:21 AM
'Lil winces as the big mutant's tail slices into her arm. "Oye. You're gonna regret that, ya big dummy."

She makes good on the threat, piercing the thing with Maya.

Hit AC 15 for 7 damage.

She takes a 5' step and continues suggesting her dudes do the same. "Come on, folks! Make'em follow us."

Two AoO hit:

Hit AC 15 for 10 damage
Hit AC 20 for 6 damage
Last AoO misses

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+7=10 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+10=29 ;
Friday February 7th, 2020 1:03:06 PM
Bigby will attack any of those mutants close by (ooc can't tell on map anymore), and continue to 5' step in the direction 'Lil suggests. att 10, wolfgang 5. "Argh, this is getting frustrating." 29 for mounted combat to dodge attack against Bigby.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=12 ; d3=2 ;
Friday February 7th, 2020 5:45:38 PM
Sol attempts an Acid Splash instead ((12 vs Touch AC, 2 damage on hit))

"I am not certain my Arcane power will work here... at least not as well as I would like..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 26/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+8=12 ; d20+8=15 ; d8+4=6 ;
Friday February 7th, 2020 8:32:57 PM
Grindar goes for another full round attack against the big mutant.

Main hand
hits AC 12 Miss

Off hand
Hits AC 15 for 6 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=27 ; d8+3=4 ;
Friday February 7th, 2020 9:27:30 PM
Caelwyn stabs another mutant while taking a five foot step back.

Attack 27, Damage 4

DM Steve -- facing mutants d20+5=10 ; d20+3=19 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=7 ; d6=4 ; d20+5=11 ;
Saturday February 8th, 2020 1:46:28 PM

'Lil winces as the big mutant's tail slices into her arm. "Oye. You're gonna regret that, ya big dummy." She makes good on the threat, piercing the thing with Maya. She takes a step back and continues suggesting her dudes do the same. "Come on, folks! Make'em follow us."

Bigby looks for an enemy to attack, but is not close to any mutants. He and Wolfgang wait for the party to close with them, as they are in the direction 'Lil is encouraging the others to go. (OOC: Sorry for forgetting to post the map link.) Bigby is in a position to see Biel is also fighting his own battle, wielding a shortspear and using his shield. Biel does not seem to need help.

Sol attempts an Acid Splash against the large mutant. He is rewarded with the sight of the mutant's skin thickening and growing scaly. He may have damaged it first. "I am not certain my Arcane power will work here... at least not as well as I would like..."

Grindar goes for another full round attack against the big mutant. He hits it from an unexpected angle.
`
Caelwyn stabs the big mutant while taking a five foot step back.

The mutant that 'Lil tried to attack moments ago closes with Sol, giving 'Lil a chance to poke at it again. Maya jabs into it. Sol nimbly dodges it's tail. The mutant grows a spiky armor after being stabbed.

The large mutant, meanwhile, seems to be changing less as time goes on. Grindar is facing a sort of long-legged, two-headed crocodile with a whip growing out of its back. Both heads lunge for Grindar, the whip targets Caelwyn. Grindar feels one savage bite (4 HP damage).

A number of smaller mutants escape the thickened grasses without sticking around, but one large mutant slithers out making a bee-line for Grindar. It seems rather snake-like, and tries to lash him with its long tongue, but does not come close.

Perception DC:18 Highlight to display spoiler: {A couple of fey creatures appear at the edge of the thickened grass (where the @ is on the map).}

=====

Here is the map. See RND4.

Mutants:
P36/37 AC: 17, Dmg - 24
N33 AC: 15, Dmg - 10
N37/38 AC: 15, Dmg - 0

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+11=25 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=10 ;
Sunday February 9th, 2020 5:00:19 PM
Grindar sees the Fey creatures appear, and his heart sinks as he is afraid they may be in danger. (perception 25) Unable to come to the aid of the new arrivals, Grindar preforms another full round attack against the large mutant, missing twice, and then takes a five foot step back encouraging the little fey dude to follow him.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=26 ; d8+3=4 ;
Sunday February 9th, 2020 9:05:55 PM
Caelwyn takes a five foot step back, trying to keep up with the others. He takes another stab at the closest mutant. "Where are we aiming to go, here? Does anyone have a plan or a destination?"

Attack, 26 - Damage, 4

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=24 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=20 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=18 ; d8+3=8 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=8 ;
Monday February 10th, 2020 11:10:02 AM
'Lil checks out them fey. Are they here to help, or just caught in the melee and need to be protected? She hopes it ain't the second. She's not even sure what the endgame here is.

She makes a stab at that mutant by Sol, but it's real sloppy. She turns red, but it ain't clear if it's anger or embarrassment. Probably both...

She steps up, making a 5' step in front of Sol. She prepares to stab any mutants what move up.

AoO w/ combat reflexes:

Hit AC 20 for 8
Hit AC 16 for 11
Hit AC 18 for 8

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=3 ; d20+3=9 ;
Monday February 10th, 2020 5:51:37 PM
Sol takes a five foot step to the west to end up P33.

He then attempts another Ray of Frost, since the Acid Splash seemed to do something that didn't involve hurting it.

However, he misses, his shot going wide.

"I must get trained to be better at aiming this spells!"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+7=11 ; d20+4=9 ;
Monday February 10th, 2020 7:57:37 PM
Bigby will attack the one next to Sol, if it's still there. 11 for claw from Bigby and 9 bite from Wolfgang. "Not our day Wolfgang."

DM Steve -- facing mutants d20+5=12 ; d20+5=22 ; d4=3 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+3=18 ; d4=2 ; d4=3 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+15=33 ;
Monday February 10th, 2020 11:31:01 PM

Grindar sees the Fey creatures appear, and his heart sinks as he is afraid they may be in danger. Unable to come to the aid of the new arrivals, Grindar preforms another full round attack against the large mutant, missing twice, and then takes a five foot step back encouraging the little fey dude to follow him.

Caelwyn takes a five foot step back, trying to keep up with the others. At the moment, he is not engaged with a mutant. "Where are we aiming to go, here? Does anyone have a plan or a destination?"

'Lil checks out them fey. Are they here to help, or just caught in the melee and need to be protected? She hopes it ain't the second. She's not even sure what the endgame here is. She makes a stab at that mutant by Sol, but it's real sloppy. She turns red, but it ain't clear if it's anger or embarrassment. Probably both... She steps up in front of Sol, and prepares to stab any mutants what move up.

Sol takes a five foot step to the west (to P33). He then attempts another Ray of Frost, since the Acid Splash seemed to do something that didn't involve hurting it. However, he misses, his shot going wide. "I must get trained to be better at aiming this spells!"

Bigby moves up and attacks the mutant next to Sol. Both Bigby and Wolfgang miss, though. "Not our day Wolfgang." The spikes that were growing from the mutant's armored hide come close to piercing Bigby when he attacks, and do hurt Wolfgang (3 HP).

The two-headed crocodile thing follows Grindar and attempts to attack him again, and 'Lil as well. Grindar is bitten once (2 HP) and 'Lil takes a lash from its whip (3 HP). The fresh, snaky mutant attacks Grindar, but misses. In the process, 'Lil takes the opportunity to stab at it, getting a solid hit. After the party reshuffling, the mutant that had been attacking Sol is facing Bigby and 'Lil. It attacks 'Lil, missing with its tail.

The fey at the edge of the thickened grass appear to be Agatha, carrying a small ball of reddish fur. Agatha is injured, but not badly. She is clearly trying to protect the other creature from the mutants around her. As she waits at the edge of Biel's spell effect, two mutants move to block her path. The other mutants that escape from Biel's spell's area keep running to the north, not bothering the party.

Biel appears to have heard what 'Lil and Caelwyn have said, because he answers, "The endgame? I thought you had something in mind. We were protecting the fey carrying the flower from the mutants following them. We have given them time to get to safety by now or at least a brief reprieve. . . I would hope. I fear the mutants are still attracted to the flower and will continue to follow it."

Here is the map. See RND5.

Mutants:
P35/36 AC: 17, Dmg - 24
N33 AC: 15, Dmg - 10
N35/36 AC: 15, Dmg - 8

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+8=27 ; d20+8=24 ; d8+4=12 ; d8+4=6 ;
Tuesday February 11th, 2020 5:47:51 AM
Seeing no way to get there himself, Grindar yells to his friends, ”Can anyone go to Agatha’s aid, I’m pinned down at the moment!” he continues to full round attack the large mutants threatening him, starting with the one he has already been fighting.

Main hand
27 for 12 damage

Off hand
24 for 6 damage

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=25 ; d8+3=10 ;
Tuesday February 11th, 2020 11:51:16 AM
Ouch! 'Lil's gettin' real sick'a being whipped. She sees that big mutant over by Caewlyn is hurt pretty bad, so she stabs it. It's a real good shot, sinking deep into the mutant.

Hit AC 25 for 10 damage.

"Keep moving, guys. We can't just sit here and kill these things all day." She's about to take her own advice, but Grindar ain't moving. Bother. She can't just leave him there to get beat on by himself. She tries to motion to Sol to move north, at least a bit, then tries to take his place. If he don't move, she stays put too.

Move: 5' step east it Sol moves.

Not rolling AoO since I don't see any way one would happen this round.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+7=23 ; d20+4=24 ; d2+3=4 ; d6+1=6 ;
Tuesday February 11th, 2020 4:13:37 PM
claw from bigby att 23, 4 dmg, and bite from wolfgang att 24, 6 dmg. and continue moving in the direction 'Lil suggests.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday February 11th, 2020 6:35:53 PM
Sol grabs onto Lil's idea and moves North, as instructed, moving to P29, but before he moves, he casts Bulls Strength on Grindar.

"Hopefully this extra strength will help."

Once he's moved, he immediately tries to distract the mutants by making loud noises and calling them over to him.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=17 ; d8+3=10 ;
Tuesday February 11th, 2020 9:21:35 PM
Caelwyn tries to keep up with everyone else, stabbing the nearest mutant again. "If we can kill these two, we may be able to get free for a bit!"

Attack 17, Damage 10

DM Steve -- facing mutants d20+5=9 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+5=13 ;
Tuesday February 11th, 2020 11:36:59 PM
Seeing no way to get there himself, Grindar yells to his friends, ”Can anyone go to Agatha’s aid, I’m pinned down at the moment!” He continues to full round attack the large mutants threatening him, starting with the one he has already been fighting.

Ouch! 'Lil's gettin' real sick'a being whipped. She sees that big mutant over by Caewlyn is hurt pretty bad, so she stabs it. It's a real good shot, sinking deep into the mutant. "Keep moving, guys. We can't just sit here and kill these things all day." She's about to take her own advice, but Grindar ain't moving. Bother. She can't just leave him there to get beat on by himself. She tries to motion to Sol to move north, at least a bit, then takes his place.

Bigby and Walfgang attack the mutant that next to them. In the process, they each manage to avoid the spikes that grow all over the thing. They continue moving in the direction 'Lil suggests.

Sol grabs onto Lil's idea and moves North, as instructed, but before he moves, he casts Bulls Strength on Grindar. "Hopefully this extra strength will help." Once he's moved, he immediately tries to distract the mutants by making loud noises and calling them over to him.

Caelwyn tries to keep up with everyone else, stabbing the nearest mutant again. "If we can kill these two, we may be able to get free for a bit!"

The two-headed crocodile goes down in a pile of gore after taking multiple hits, and the snake takes a slash from Grindar. Bigby and Wolfgang kill the smaller mutant they were fighting.

Only the large mutant attacking Grindar is left, and it fails in its attempt to bite him. As the party watches, its skin becomes knobbier. Without moving closer, Grindar is the only one in position to melee with the creature.

From the north comes a sound like wind moving through the grass, but the party sees no sign of wind. It is answered by a frustrated-sounding howl from the distant south. Another scattering or mutants squeezes through Biel's spell effect, but they do not stick around to fight. In the nearer south, the party can no longer see Agatha -- she and the mutants she is facing are covered in a mass of sticky fibers. Biel continues to fight in the near north.

Here is the map. See RND6.

Mutants:
P35/36 AC: 17, Dmg - dead
N33 AC: 15, Dmg - dead
N35/36 AC: 15, Dmg - 14

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=18 ; d20+10=28 ; d8+6=14 ; d8+6=13 ;
Wednesday February 12th, 2020 5:49:44 AM
Feeling the boast of strength from Sol's spell, Grindar lets out a roar as he attempts to drop the final large mutant. Against his better judgment, he will take a 5ft step back after the attack, since that seems to be the consensus among his friends, though he is worried for Agatha.

Main hand
18 for 14 damage

Off hand
28 for 13 damage

bull's strength 23/24 (1 minute per level equals 24 rounds at level 4)

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=15 ; d8+3=8 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+6=18 ; d8+3=8 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=6 ;
Wednesday February 12th, 2020 11:59:10 AM
Grindar lands two solid hits on the last mutant. She hopes that's enough to drop it.

'Lil heads south towards Agatha. Maya will let her stab mutants through the web, giving Agatha a way out. At least that's what she hopes...

***

Move: P36
Standard: Attack mutant at P38. Hit AC 15 for 8 damage.

AoO/Combat reflexes w/ 10' reach:

Hit AC 21 for 8
Hit AC 18 for 11
Hit AC 18 for 6

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 d20+7=15 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=12 ; d2+3=5 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=24 ; d6+1=7 ; d20+4=24 ;
Wednesday February 12th, 2020 2:09:52 PM
Bigby's not sure which message to follow now, whether to move forward or to help Agatha. He decides to stick with Sol. "Together then." Bigby will attack anything that moves towards Sol or him and then continues the 5 step forward. 15, 27 (12 confirm crit), dmg 5, 5. Wolfgang attack 24, 7 dmg, 24 trip.

DM Steve -- facing mutants
Thursday February 13th, 2020 12:05:50 AM

Feeling the boost of strength from Sol's spell, Grindar lets out a roar as he attempts to drop the final large mutant. He lands two devastating blows with Bwyell. He takes a step to the north after the attack, since that seems to be the consensus among his friends, though he is worried for Agatha.

Grindar lands two solid hits on the last mutant. 'Lil hopes that's enough to drop it. She heads south towards Agatha. Maya will let her stab mutants through the web, giving Agatha a way out. At least that's what she hopes... 'Lil jabs one of the mutants handily as it's trapped in the webs.

Bigby's not sure which message to follow now, whether to move forward or to help Agatha. He decides to stick with Sol. "Together then." Bigby readies to attack anything that moves towards Sol or him, which ends up being one of several mutants that squeeze out of Biel's spell effect this round. Together Bigby and Wolfgang take the creature out before it has a chance to fight back.

Sol and Caelwyn take the opportunity to catch their breath.

Agatha emerges from the webs in which a number of mutants remain trapped, seemingly unaffected by them. She still carries the little furry dude. Biel has disappeared into the grasses to the north. The sound of a big wind still comes from the north, becoming more pronounced. The howls to the south are not getting louder.

Here is the map. See RND7.

Mutants:
N35/36 AC: 15, Dmg - dead
P38 AC: 15, Dmg - 8
N31 AZC:15, Dmg - dead

1 minute = 10 rounds; Sol's bull's strength lasts 40 rounds

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=19 ; d3=2 ;
Thursday February 13th, 2020 4:04:04 AM
Sol stays where he is, and casts another Ray Of Frost at either of the mutants blocking their path to the north. ((19 to hit, 2 damage))

"I am out of arcane power now!" He calls. "I'm down to my very basic spells!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17
Thursday February 13th, 2020 5:23:23 AM
Grindar tells the little fey dude he should head up and stay with Bigby, he then heads down to back up Agatha's retreat. He is relieved to see her safe, but those weird wind noises have him unnerved.

Bull's Strength: 38/40

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=13 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+6=22 ; d20+6=16 ; d8=6 ; d8=1 ;
Thursday February 13th, 2020 11:15:56 AM
"That don't sound good," 'Lil says to herself. With Agatha outta them webs, 'Lil takes a 5' step back to stand next to Agatha, then stabs the mutant at Q37. Maya gets caught a little in the webs, though.

"Go on," she says to Agatha. "I got'cher back."

5' step back
Attack Q37 - Hit AC 13

AoO + Combat reflexes w/ 10 reach:

Hit AC 14, Miss
Hit AC 22 for 9 damage
Hit AC 16 for 4 damage

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 d20+7=26 ; d20+7=25 ; d2+3=5 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=16 ; d6+1=6 ;
Thursday February 13th, 2020 2:11:08 PM
Bigby continues to attack anything coming their way including sol. 26, 25, 5, 5 dmg. Wolfgang: 16, 6 dmg. Bigby continues to 5' step forward. "Me too Sol, let's just make it through this day."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15
Thursday February 13th, 2020 10:31:56 PM
Caelwyn joins in with the others, moving steadily backward with his shield up to cover Agatha's retreat. "Let's just focus on getting out of this for now." He offers a prayer to Domi to get them out of this new mess.

DM Steve -- facing mutants d20+5=22 ; d6=4 ; d20+9=17 ;
Friday February 14th, 2020 12:22:00 AM
Sol stays where he is, and casts another Ray Of Frost a mutant blocking their path to the north. He damages the creature. "I am out of arcane power now!" He calls. "I'm down to my very basic spells!"

Grindar tells the little fey dude he should head up and stay with Bigby, he then heads down to back up Agatha's retreat. He is relieved to see her safe, but those weird wind noises have him unnerved.

"That don't sound good," 'Lil says to herself. With Agatha outta them webs, 'Lil takes a 5' step back to stand next to Agatha, then stabs at the nearest mutant. Maya gets caught a little in the webs, though. "Go on," she says to Agatha. "I got'cher back."

Bigby continues to attack anything coming their way. Bigby and Wolfgang manage to take down a second mutant before it even has a chance to attack them. "Me too Sol, let's just make it through this day."

Caelwyn joins in with the others, moving steadily backward with his shield up to cover Agatha's retreat. "Let's just focus on getting out of this for now." He offers a prayer to Domi to get them out of this new mess.

The mutant that Sol attacked moves down to Sol and bites back. (Sol takes 4 HP damage) The mutants that 'Lil has poked at bulk up and rip free of the webs, but only one has a chance to close with her. It attempts to ram her, barely missing. Agatha slowly continues north; the little fey who was hanging around Grindar joins her as she gets close.

The "wind" continues. Where a real wind would come with gusts and silences, this is a steady, almost uniform, sound. Bigby and Sol, being further north, see that the grass is bending -- almost flattening -- over there.

Here is the map. See RND8. The map has been repositioned to show a larger area.

Mutants:
AB36 AC: 15, Dmg - 8
AD37 AC: 15, Dmg - 0
AD28 AC: 15, Dmg - 2

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+12=14 ;
Friday February 14th, 2020 5:32:22 AM
Grindar hurries over to Lil's side and attacks the mutant with a two-handed swing, just missing the thing. "I'm beginning to feel like someone out there hates us!", Grindar exclaims, "They just keep coming, and what's up with those winds?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=10 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+6=18 ; d8+3=7 ; d20+6=23 ; d8+3=5 ;
Friday February 14th, 2020 10:55:06 AM
'Lil looks at all them mutants. She's pretty sure that ain't a wind up there. Honestly, she ain't sure what to do other than hope these fey have a plan and just need these mutants to get stabbed while they do it.

She puts a hand on Grindar's shoulder as she takes a step back. "Don't worry dude. I ain't leaving." She does take a 5' step back, however, before tryin'a stab that mutant in front of him. She don't hit it, but boy she tries.

She gets ready to capitalize on any openings...

Move: 5' step
Standard: Hit AC 10

AoO:

Hit AC 11
Hit AC 18 for 7
Hit AC 23 for 5

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 d20+7=24 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+10=29 ;
Friday February 14th, 2020 4:41:36 PM
Bigby moves over to attack the creature next to Sol. 24 att, 5 dmg. Wolfgang bites, 7, and misses. "Come on we gotta keep moving forward. The grass is flattening so looks like we should be able to get through." 29 knowledge nature as to why the grass is bending.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=14 ; d3=3 ;
Saturday February 15th, 2020 6:06:36 PM
Sol does as Bigby instructs and moves forwards, flinging out another ray of frost at the creatures ahead of him. (14 to hit, 3 damage)

"If we are going to move we should not dally, we must keep pushing forwards."

DM Steve -- facing mutants d20+5=9 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+9=10 ;
Sunday February 16th, 2020 4:01:35 PM
Perception DC:10 Highlight to display spoiler: {A huge flock of not-quite-birds flies overhead, wheeling above the party but heading to the north, casting a huge moving shadow on the grasses below. Among the sounds of wind in the grasses you can pick out others. It would be impossible to say that the mutants the party has been fighting have a specific sound to them, yet that is what is faint in the north, and much more The odd wind-like sound continues, and the bending grasses are getting closer.}

Rangers, druids, or perception DC:15 Highlight to display spoiler: {With the stampede earlier in the day and the to-and-fro since, the characters do not know where they are now. However, the sun’s position has changed and there are no mountains in the distance. That could mean the mountains are hidden by the plant growth within Biel's spell effect, or that the party came a long way through the fey corridors.}

Bigby and Sol Highlight to display spoiler: {Being closer to the bending grasses, Bigby and Sol have a better view of what it happening in the north. Between the stalks of the grasses in that direction, these two can tell that there is something beyond huge moving to the north. It is not fast, but it is most definitely moving. The bending grass is somewhat closer to the party than the distant motion.}

Grindar hurries over to Lil's side and attacks the mutant with a two-handed swing, just missing the thing. "I'm beginning to feel like someone out there hates us! They just keep coming, and what's up with those winds?"

'Lil looks at all them mutants. She's pretty sure that ain't a wind up there. Honestly, she ain't sure what to do other than hope these fey have a plan and just need these mutants to get stabbed while they do it. She puts a hand on Grindar's shoulder as she takes a step back. "Don't worry dude. I ain't leaving." She does take a 5' step back, however, before tryin'a stab that mutant in front of him. She don't hit it, but boy she tries.

Bigby moves over to attack the creature next to Sol. 24 att, 5 dmg. "Come on we gotta keep moving forward. The grass is flattening so looks like we should be able to get through." Bigby Highlight to display spoiler: {Bigby does not know of anything natural that would cause this, but can speculate that it might be related to the repulsion that druid trees and Sargrass have.}

Sol does as Bigby instructs and moves forwards, flinging out another ray of frost at the creatures ahead of him. The ray does not seem to damage it greatly, but definitely hurts it. "If we are going to move we should not dally, we must keep pushing forwards."

Caelwyn keeps guarding Agatha and the other fey.

The mutant near him attacks Bigby, but seems confused having three potential targets and misses its attack. One of the muscular mutants attacks Grindar, trying to slam him. The other moves up to attack 'Lil, whose attack of opportunity misses. Neither of these mutants hits, however. A handful of other mutants get through the thickened grass and head towards the north, ignoring the party.

Here is the map. See RND9.

Mutants:
AB35 AC: 15, Dmg - 8
AD34 AC: 15, Dmg - 0
AD28 AC: 15, Dmg - 10

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=13 ; d20+8=10 ; d8+3=11 ;
Sunday February 16th, 2020 10:41:24 PM
Caelwyn decides that Sol and Bigby can take the one mutant in front of them, and turns back to help Lil and Grindar. He charges at the mutant near Lil, stabbing at it. "I don't like the sound of whatever is coming...Let's keep moving!"

Attack 10, Damage 11

Perception 13

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=9 ; d20+8=17 ; d20+6=19 ; d8+3=9 ; d20+6=24 ; d8+3=9 ;
Monday February 17th, 2020 10:27:14 AM
Perception 9: fail
Perception 17: Pass

"Yea, but keep movin' where? We got bad sounds up there, and unpassable growth down there." She takes a step back before stabbin' at the mutant by Grindar.

Attack AB35 - Hit AC 19 for 9 damage.

AoO: Hit AC 24 for 9 damage

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 d20+7=13 ; d20+7=20 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+4=12 ; d20+10=29 ;
Monday February 17th, 2020 3:54:59 PM
claw claw, 13, 20 4 dmg, wolfgang bite to the mutant near them. If it dies, 5 step forward. "Ok, how does that human saying go...something something rock and hard place. Something big is heading our way, but honestly, it may still be the best way to go. Biel is ahead as well. perception 29.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=17 ; d20+1=14 ; d20+3=14 ; d3=2 ;
Monday February 17th, 2020 5:35:22 PM
Sol attempts another Ray of Frost at the creature, but has little else he can do.

"I would be wary something wicked this way comes! And it is rather on the large side!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=25 ; d20+10=22 ; d20+10=19 ; d8+6=12 ; d8+6=9 ;
Monday February 17th, 2020 6:16:31 PM
"Keep your eyes open friends, we have company overhead!", Grindar shares as he attempts a full round attack on the mutant attacking him. after connecting with both hits, he takes a 5ft step back and says, "Where, in the name of Pantheon, are we, we must have traveled quite a ways in the fey corridor!"

Main hand
22 for 12 damage

Off hand
19 for 9 damage

DM Steve -- facing mutants
Monday February 17th, 2020 10:43:06 PM

Caelwyn decides that Sol and Bigby can take the one mutant in front of them, and turns back to help Lil and Grindar. He charges at the mutant near Lil, stabbing at it unsuccessfully. "I don't like the sound of whatever is coming...Let's keep moving!"

'Lil takes a step back before stabbin' at the mutant by Grindar and killing it. "Yea, but keep movin' where? We got bad sounds up there, and unpassable growth down there."

Bigby and Wolfgang attack the mutant near them. Their attacks leave it badly hurt. "Ok, how does that human saying go...something something rock and hard place. Something big is heading our way, but honestly, it may still be the best way to go. Biel is ahead as well."

Sol attempts another Ray of Frost at the creature, but has little else he can do. He surprises himself by killing it. "I would be wary something wicked this way comes! And it is rather on the large side!"

"Keep your eyes open friends, we have company overhead!", Grindar shares as he takes a step and shifts targets to the mutant fighting Caelwyn, since his intended target is down. After connecting with both hits, he says, "Where, in the name of Pantheon, are we, we must have traveled quite a ways in the fey corridor!" His fresh opponent is down.

Although some more mutants manage to escape from the heavily grown grasses, they head north without stopping to investigate the party. This leaves no mutants attacking at the moment, although there are some within reach if the party decides to carry the fight to them. The bending grasses are getting closer to the party.

Bigby and Sol Highlight to display spoiler: {Being closer to the bending grasses, Bigby and Sol have a better view of what it happening in the north. The big things moving to the north seem to be trees. They are whipping around as if in a wind storm.}

Here is the map. See RND10.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15
Monday February 17th, 2020 11:23:37 PM
Caelwyn glances back toward the bending grasses. "Best back up a bit and stay together, I don't like the look of this...we should try to follow Biel and stay together if we can!" He moves in that direction, ready to fight at a moment's notice.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17
Tuesday February 18th, 2020 5:38:07 AM
Seeing no threat from the current mutants, Grindar makes a double move action and says, "I'm not sure where we are or what our current objective is, but let's follow Biel he seems to have some idea as to what to do, and since, at least for the moment, the mutants aren't attacking, so now may be a good time to make up some distance".

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday February 18th, 2020 10:41:58 AM
Honestly, that plan sounds as good as any. She smoothly stows Maya and takes off into a run after Biel. She makes absolute sure she's not leaving anyone behind, though.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17
Tuesday February 18th, 2020 11:57:18 AM
Bigby keeps moving forward and yells back, "so big trees are whipping around in a storm ahead that's bending the grass ahead of us. So, maybe that's a good thing...maybe...it's...a...good thing?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday February 18th, 2020 6:59:33 PM
Sol nods.

"At least it is a route we can take to get out of here hopefully. I would rather not get caught flat footed by the mutants again if at all possible."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday February 18th, 2020 8:43:22 PM
Caelwyn keeps up with the others as best he can.

DM Steve -- facing mutants
Wednesday February 19th, 2020 12:14:51 AM

Caelwyn glances back toward the bending grasses. "Best back up a bit and stay together, I don't like the look of this...we should try to follow Biel and stay together if we can!" He moves in that direction, ready to fight at a moment's notice.

Seeing no threat from the current mutants, Grindar makes a double move action and says, "I'm not sure where we are or what our current objective is, but let's follow Biel he seems to have some idea as to what to do, and since, at least for the moment, the mutants aren't attacking, so now may be a good time to make up some distance".

Honestly, that plan sounds as good as any. 'Lil smoothly stows Maya and takes off into a run after Biel. She makes absolute sure she's not leaving anyone behind, though.

Bigby keeps moving forward and yells back, "so big trees are whipping around in a storm ahead that's bending the grass ahead of us. So, maybe that's a good thing...maybe...it's...a...good thing?"

Sol nods. "At least it is a route we can take to get out of here hopefully. I would rather not get caught flat footed by the mutants again if at all possible."

Caelwyn keeps up with the others as best he can.

The party gathers together at the boundary where the grass is bending. Not getting caught in the grass as it bends takes a little effort, but anyone who gets knocked down is unharmed and able to stand again quickly. Where the grass is already bent, it is easier to walk than it is among the tall stalks. And now that there is no grass obscuring the view, the party sees a battle in the distance. Mutants are fighting trees.

To the east and west, mutants are streaming out of the grasses to attack the trees that are to the north. It is only the dense growth in the area of Biel's spell that has been protecting the party from another stampede. Sixty or seventy feet to either side and the party would be in a stampede again. Here, there is an abrupt edge to the standing Sargrass. And the forest to the north . . . is moving south while battling with the mutants. Yes, it is clearly a forest on the move. It does not charge quickly, but the grass bends before it as if being driven by a storm.

The party sees Biel not far in the distance, talking to a tree that has broken away from the rest. He is pointing in their direction. The battle is occurring further north.

Here is the map. See RND11.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17
Wednesday February 19th, 2020 5:41:17 AM
"Onward and upward, I guess" Grindar says as he makes another double move. "I can honestly say I have never seen a forest fighting before, this is a new one, though it seems as though Biel is acquainted with that tree over there".

The Forest Walks

'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday February 19th, 2020 10:09:18 AM
'Lil looks back at Caelwyn. "Come on, slow poke! Keep up!" She chases after Grindar, scoping out them trees as she runs. Are they mutant trees, or normal trees? She wonders what's going on up there. She's heard stories about treants, but a whole forest of them? Did Biel and his folk animate them?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17
Wednesday February 19th, 2020 3:26:53 PM
Bigby continues north. He's not sure what to make of any of it.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday February 19th, 2020 7:04:07 PM
Sol moves to follow behind Lil and Grindar, but between them so they are flanking him.

"Do we have a plan for what to do next? Or are we just going to keep moving north?"

DM Steve -- facing mutants
Wednesday February 19th, 2020 11:47:56 PM

As he continues to move north, Grindar says, "Onward and upward, I guess. I can honestly say I have never seen a forest fighting before, this is a new one, though it seems as though Biel is acquainted with that tree over there."

'Lil looks back at Caelwyn. "Come on, slow poke! Keep up!" She chases after Grindar, scoping out them trees as she runs. Are they mutant trees, or normal trees? She wonders what's going on up there. She's heard stories about treants, but a whole forest of them? Did Biel and his folk animate them?

Bigby continues north. He's not sure what to make of any of it.

Sol moves to follow behind Lil and Grindar, but between them so they are flanking him. "Do we have a plan for what to do next? Or are we just going to keep moving north?"

As far as 'Lil knows, these could be treants. Bigby thinks treants are smaller than many of the trees he sees. Whatever, these trees can walk, and they are cooperating with each other in battle in a way that the mutants haven't been.

If the party keeps moving north, they will enter an ongoing battle. The trees, aided by humans and fey, seem to have the upper hand -- but the mutants are replenished by a constant stream to the east and the west of the party. There are also some larger mutants in the mix. But some of the trees are colossal.

Agatha and the tree Biel was talking to approach each other.

Here is the map. See RND12.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17
Thursday February 20th, 2020 5:49:37 AM
Grindar approaches the tree that Agatha and Biel are talking to. He does his best to be respectful, though he has no idea what is considered proper educate when talking to a tree. Not sure whither or not the tree will understand him, or if he would understand the tree, Grindar gives a polite bow and says, "My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, and these are my friends Lil, Sol, Bigby, and Caelwyn, we are clueless as to what is going on here, but if there is something we can do to help, please but say the word".

'Lil - (Carl) - 35/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d6=4 ; d6=5 ;
Thursday February 20th, 2020 10:16:57 AM
'Lil squeezes past everyone and settles in the middle of folks as well she can. "Squeeze in if you're hurt, everyone. We're all friends here. Don't be shy."

Once everyone who wants it is in range, she channels positive energy, healing 9 HP.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday February 20th, 2020 5:14:25 PM
Bigby squeezes in for the healing.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday February 20th, 2020 6:59:31 PM
Sol squeezes in, but keeps shtum when Grindar starts speaking, not wanting to cramp his friends style.

DM Steve -- facing mutants
Friday February 21st, 2020 12:19:11 AM

Grindar approaches the tree that Agatha and Biel are talking to. He does his best to be respectful, though he has no idea what is considered proper educate when talking to a tree. Not sure whither or not the tree will understand him, or if he would understand the tree, Grindar gives a polite bow and says, "My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, and these are my friends Lil, Sol, Bigby, and Caelwyn, we are clueless as to what is going on here, but if there is something we can do to help, please but say the word".

'Lil squeezes past everyone and settles in the middle of folks as well she can. "Squeeze in if you're hurt, everyone. We're all friends here. Don't be shy."

Bigby squeezes in for the healing.

Sol squeezes in, but keeps shtum when Grindar starts speaking, not wanting to cramp his friends style.

Caelwyn also squeezes in. Once everyone who wants it is in range, 'Lil channels positive energy, healing 9 HP. The range extends to Agatha and fey with her, Biel, and the tree. The little fellow that Agatha is carrying stirs after the healing, but appears to still be in bad shape. The tree touches Agatha, who surrenders her furry companion to it. The tree also touches Grindar. Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {When the tree touches Grindar, he feels protective and "sees" himself being carried to others. He thinks the tree is offering to take him somewhere.}

Here is the map. See RND13.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d6=5 ; d6=2 ;
Friday February 21st, 2020 10:46:15 AM
'Lil's still a tiny bit banged up, and that little guy is pretty hurt, so she continues channeling. An additional 7 HP are healed.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17
Friday February 21st, 2020 1:12:04 PM
Grindar turns to his friends and says, “I think this tree wants to help us by carrying us somewhere, and I feel we can trust him!” To the tree he says, “if my friends are onboard, I would be happy to go with you!”

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Saturday February 22nd, 2020 3:59:01 AM
Sol shrugs.

"Hello friend!" He says to the tree.

"We are very happy to accept your assistance! Can you shed some more light on what is happening in the Sargrass? We know that there are mutation blooms happening, which causes these creatures..." he indicates the mutants. "...but personally, I was wondering if you have felt anything else strange in the Sargrass recently?"

DM Steve -- Up a tree
Saturday February 22nd, 2020 2:06:21 PM

'Lil's still a tiny bit banged up, and that little guy is pretty hurt, so she continues channeling.

Grindar turns to his friends and says, “I think this tree wants to help us by carrying us somewhere, and I feel we can trust him!” To the tree he says, “if my friends are onboard, I would be happy to go with you!”

Sol shrugs. "Hello friend!" He says to the tree. "We are very happy to accept your assistance! Can you shed some more light on what is happening in the Sargrass? We know that there are mutation blooms happening, which causes these creatures..." he indicates the mutants. "...but personally, I was wondering if you have felt anything else strange in the Sargrass recently?"

Caelwyn and Bigby don't particularly react to Grindar's suggestion, while they take in the scene around them.

Thanks to "Lil's ministrations, the party is healed of their wounds. Agatha and her furry companion are still hurt some, but she runs off into the battle on her own, leaving him in the care of the tree. Biel goes off in a different direction. Off to the east, a storm quickly forms, from which several bolts of lighting strike the battlefield. In the west, a colossal mutant millipede dominates the fight.

The tree reaches down to touch each of the party members. Upon being touched, each feels as if they are watching someone they love being hurt, and that they should do something to help. This is followed by the impression of being carried to that loved one. The tree then picks up the party members and carries them into the thick of the battle. The tree makes slow headway through the throng of mutants by walking over and crushing the smaller ones. It does not take much to recognize that any smaller creatures down there are being hurt by the sheer crush of bodies, as happened in the stampedes earlier. After a short while, the tree reaches another, larger tree within but near an edge of the battle. Bigby, Caelwyn, 'Lil, Grindar, and Sol "see" themselves climbing into this other tree. They "see" that this tree protects its loved ones. Sense motive DC: 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {You realize that this larger tree is where wounded fey are being brought. You might consider it the "hospital tree."}

From their vantage in the larger tree, the characters see the clash of the grove with the animals of the Sargrass. Creatures of many sizes are engaged on both sides of the battle, although the larger trees tower over any of the animals. If the players leave the tree to battle on the ground, they feel sure they will be overwhelmed. Plus, it's a long ways down.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+2=4 ;
Monday February 24th, 2020 5:49:23 AM
sense motive 4

Feeling safer than he has in a long while, Grindar does his best to get comfortable in the tree. part of him would like to re-enter the fray, but he knows that that would be akin to suicide at this point, so he throws up a prayer to Pantheon, asking that justice would prevail on the side of their fey and tree friends. As he watches the carnage, he is thankful for their place of safety, but for the life of him, he can't understand why this war between the fey and the mutants is raging on as it is, or how the Warper-Sarr, who by all accounts isn't necessarily an evil being, could find pleasure in such needless death, brought on by his "creation".

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=24 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; d6=5 ;
Monday February 24th, 2020 10:41:13 AM
"Hey, there're wounded over there." 'Lil points to the hospital tree. "HEY!" she starts yelling at the tree carrying them. "HEY! I CAN HELP. PUT ME OVER THERE."

Assuming the tree listens, 'Lil starts channeling energy after gathering up as many injured as she can.

8 HP healed. Thank goodness we reroll 1s here. Look at that nonsense.

Caelwyn - Carl Subbing d20=8 ;
Monday February 24th, 2020 10:43:44 AM
Caelwyn perches comfortably. He patiently waits for an opportunity to stab something.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday February 24th, 2020 1:35:20 PM
"so the tree is asking us to climb it. NO wolfgang, you can't pee on it." Wolfgang and Bigby climb up the tree with the others.

GM Ryan - Up A Tree
Monday February 24th, 2020 3:38:17 PM
Grindar feels safe and contemplates what is going on. His mind goes to the Warper-sar who he has a great deal of trouble understanding. Caelwyn perches comfortably and waits to stab. Lil shouts to be put down saying she can help. Bigby realizes that the tree wants you climb over into its embrace.

Saftly in the new tree Lil is delivered an impression that if she were to be put down it may well be the last that happens and that she should remain calm. The larger tree sprouts small branches, almost tendrils that reach towards those that are hurt. Branches branch off multiple times as the injured are brought to the base of this very large tree.

Near you and near the other injured fruit sprouts and you get the image of healing and reinvigorating. Those that can reach know to eat the fruit and do. As they eat wounds close and they stand straighter ready to get back into the fight. The branches hover over the few that are unconscious and a drip of sap or nectar falls, the wounds close and they to rise looking very healthy.

The battle rages below though a clear area has been kept around this tree.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday February 24th, 2020 4:35:46 PM
Sol just watches, apparently completely awestruck at not only this tree but what it seems capable of doing.

Unless directly spoken to, he simply says nothing and watches open mouthed.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17
Tuesday February 25th, 2020 5:43:17 AM
When Grindar sees the trees abilities, he is blown away. He didn't even know such a thing was possible. He turns to Lil, the closest thing to an expert on magical healing, in the party, and asks, "Have you ever seen or heard of such a thing? This tree is a marvel!"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday February 25th, 2020 9:43:56 AM
"What? No, not down there! I can help with them hurt folk..." then she seems all them hurt folk eatin' fruit and gettin' better. That is a seriously useful tree.

"Huh? No, I ain't know nothing about that. Wonder if we can get a few seeds for that tree. That would be super helpful in New Rattledam."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday February 25th, 2020 2:00:09 PM
"huh, pretty cool tree. yeah sure lets bring some tree seeds with us."

GM Ryan - Up A Tree
Tuesday February 25th, 2020 3:27:02 PM
Sol is awestruck by the actions of he tree as much as Grindar is blown away. Lil again asks to be let down to help before seeing that that has been taken care of. Half a minute passes and the battle is rejoined.

The battle continues for the next thirty seconds or so and it is still clearly too dense to come down out of the tree to help. Many on both sides are injured but a few of the mutates seems to be changing back, not many maybe it is a start. As you watch the shadow again passes over the trees, well three shadows actually. Three large reptilian birds with blue lower feathers circle once twice and close on you all in the tree. You have a moment to adjust your grip and ready yourselves before they will be on you. They are moving fast and hard to make out details yet.

{ooc: Move action each round to not fall from the tree. No check needed if you take the time.}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=4 ;
Tuesday February 25th, 2020 6:45:37 PM
Sol ensures he maintains his balance, trying to get a better look at the birds ((Perception 4)) but fails to see anything of value.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday February 25th, 2020 8:45:05 PM
Caelwyn marvels at the size of this battle. "Clearly we see her a battle between the Warper and the other Sarr...the one that promotes a return to the older ways, when the forests here were tall? I knew I liked the sound of him." Caelwyn has a liking for trees, and his heart is gladdened to see them here at last on these open plains. He hopes none will be seriously hurt.

He thinks too late of his longbow. "Curses...that could have been helpful." He instead readies shield and trident, readying himself to see what the birds do and securing himself in the tree. Perhaps if the opportunity arises he will take the bow out. For now he prepares to strike if the birds attack.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+8=27 ; d6+5=9 ;
Wednesday February 26th, 2020 5:44:34 AM
As Grindar steadies himself, he draws Bwyell with his off hand, and a javelin with his primary hand. he hurls the javelin at the nearest flying beast, saying, "Here we go again!"

Hits AC 27 for 9 damage

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday February 26th, 2020 12:08:48 PM
Bigby gets out his crossbow and puts a bolt in place, getting ready to attack the next round.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=22 ; d8+3=10 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=12 ; d8+3=10 ; d8+3=6 ;
Wednesday February 26th, 2020 12:59:05 PM
'Lil grabs a branch, then braces Maya, ready for the attack.

Readied action: Attack bird if it gets close. If the bird is charging, the attack does double damage. Hit AC 22 for 10 damage (20 if she was charged).

AoO + Combat reflexes:

Nat 20 (crit confirm fail) for 10 damage
Hit AC 12 for 6 damage

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! d20+7=9 ; d20+9=10 ; d20+7=13 ;
Wednesday February 26th, 2020 1:26:36 PM
Sol gets a good grip but cannot see anything of note as a bit of bark falls into his eye. Caelwyn does not think of his longbow in time and prepares his other weapons. Bigbyu gets out his crossbow and put a bolt in place. With a grunt Grindar attacks and strikes one of the attacking creatures, the pink-ish one.

The flying lizards, now that they are close, appear to be just that. They are large lizards that appear to have sprouted iridescent dragonfly wings. {Pic on map} The one hit by the javain has a few small drops of blue blood fall to the forest floor below. The creatures, lets call them Giant Liz-Flies come forward to attack.

The yellow on actually lands between Bigby and Caelwyn but misses its attempt to bite Bigby. {To Hit: 9} [/i]

The red Liz-Fly comes in fast after being hit by the javelin and attempts to knock Grindar from the trees branches. Fortunately for Grindar it just does not have enough mass to move him. {Bull Rush: 10} : Grindar you would get an AOO}

The final Liz-Fly swoops in and tries to bite at Lil and gets bopped on the snout on the way in. When close it tries to bite and cannot connect with its razor sharp teeth. {To Hit: 13 - No AOO on the attack but I you got the readies attack off.}

Blue -10
Pink: -9
Yellow: -0

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=20 ; d8+3=11 ;
Wednesday February 26th, 2020 9:02:29 PM
Caelwyn smiles grimly as the yellow lizard lands within range. "Bad move, monster!" He stabs at its head with his trident.

Attack 20, Damage 11

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=4 ;
Thursday February 27th, 2020 4:46:30 AM
Sol tries to keep his head down, but throws out a Ray of Frost at whichever one is closest to him, and almost certainly misses. ((4 to attack))

Cursing is rotten aiming he then hunkers down trying to stay a bit more out of sight.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=25 ; d8+7=13 ; d20+10=11 ;
Thursday February 27th, 2020 5:50:22 AM
Grindar sees the opening left as the lizard tries to push him out of the tree, and makes a two handed attack in response. He then follows up with another two handed attack. The constant need to brace himself to avoid falling keeps him from making a full round attack, and apparently, making contact.

AOO
Hits AC 25 for 13 damage

regular attack
nat 1

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=14 ; d8+3=11 ;
Thursday February 27th, 2020 9:25:00 AM
'Lil holds on. She can't target the blue creature next to her, and her player's not sure if she can take a 5' step AND hold on to the tree. Perhaps his DM can let him know?

In the meantime, she holds on and attacks the magenta creature. She hits AC 14 for 11 damage.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=23 ; d4=3 ;
Thursday February 27th, 2020 11:31:35 AM
Bigby fires off his crossbow at one of the flying creatures. 23 att, 3 dmg.

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! d20+9=29 ; d20+9=29 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+7=20 ; d6+4=8 ; d6+4=6 ; d8+4=12 ;
Thursday February 27th, 2020 5:04:22 PM
Caelwyn lands a good strike on the landed creature which shrieks in pain. Sol keeps his head down and launches a ray of frost that lands in the battle someplace below.

Grindar lands a blow as the creature tries to knock him from the tree but cannot hit a follow up attack. Lil has a question for a higher power and misses with her attack. Bigbys’ crossbow manages to connect with the yellw Liz-Fly.

The pink and blue Liz-Fly retreat back some distance and ready for another run at things. {ooc: withdrawl} The yellow in in place and attacks with teeth and claws at Calewyn. {Hit; 29/13/20 | Crit Confirm: 29 | Dam: 14/12} The bite lands a very rough blow and the claw is not so bad itself. Caelwayn is still in the fight but hurt very badly.

{ooc: Lil – A 5ft step does not really work when clinging to a tree unless you have a climb speed I think.}

Blue -10
Pink: -22
Yellow: -14

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+5=18 ; d6+5=8 ;
Thursday February 27th, 2020 6:39:45 PM
Grindar quickly draws another Javelin, and hurls it at the pink liz-fly.

rolled 18-2 for range Hits AC 16 for 8 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=23 ; d3=2 ;
Thursday February 27th, 2020 8:01:52 PM
Sol takes another pot shot with Ray of Frost, ((23 to hit, 3 damage)) just popping up long enough to fling the ray at the nearest liz-fly and ducking back down.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 18/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=20 ; d8+3=11 ;
Thursday February 27th, 2020 10:34:58 PM
Caelwyn cries out in pain as the lizard's teeth and claws leave deep lacerations in his flesh. Gritting his teeth, he manages to stay in the tree. He sends up a desperate prayer to Domi for aid and attacks the lizard again with his trident.

Attack 20, Damage 11

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday February 28th, 2020 12:32:48 PM
Bigby cocks another arrow into place.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+2=16 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+6=20 ; d20+6=22 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=5 ;
Friday February 28th, 2020 1:25:29 PM
Climb: 16

'Lil climbs north a bit to help stab that lizard. The attack goes as well as the last one did...

Hit AC 14 - Miss

AoO + Combat reflexes for the other two:

Hit AC 20 for 11 damage
Hit AC 22 for 5 damage

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! d20+9=10 ;
Friday February 28th, 2020 1:59:10 PM
As the pink Liz-fly loops around Grindar hurls another javelin that just manages to connect. More blood drops on the forces below and the creature and it is clearly having trouble staying in the air. Sol follows the javelin with a shard of ice that clips the win causing the ceature to spiral down and crash into the battle below.

Bigby takes a moment to nock an arrow while holding onto the tree. Lil connects with the blue Liz-fly as it moves away form the tree and climbs to attack the yellow but cannot connect.

The yellow Liz-fly is in bad shape but tries to bite again but misses Calwyn with what might be its last attempt unless it is very lucky.

The blue Liz-fly loops out and reorients itself to be facing the tree.

Blue -26
Pink: DEAD
Yellow: -25

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=16 ; d8+3=10 ;
Friday February 28th, 2020 8:30:22 PM
Caelwyn's shield deflects the yellow lizard's attack, repelling its claws. He feels Domi's power flowing through him and collects himself for another attack, stabbing at the creature's head with his trident.

Attack 16, damage 10

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=15 ; d3=3 ; d20+3=6 ;
Saturday February 29th, 2020 4:52:19 PM
((Rolling 15 to confirm Crit on previous roll, and an additional 3 damage if Crit is confirmed))

Sol waits until one of the creatures is within range, and flings another Ray of Frost at it ((6 to hit)) but because of the movement of the tree, he misses.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+1=5 ;
Sunday March 1st, 2020 11:50:40 AM
Grindar does his best to calculate the placement of his friends (taking -4 on attack roll for firing into melee) before he draws another javelin and hurls it at the yellow Liz-Fly, but misses badly.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15
Sunday March 1st, 2020 8:02:24 PM
Caelwyn winces as he stabs at the lizard. He isn't hurt as badly as he originally thought, but it's still painful.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=7 ;
Sunday March 1st, 2020 10:31:31 PM
Bigby fires a crossbow bolt and misses.

'Lil (Jeremy dubbing for Carl) d20+6=11 ; d8+3=11 ;
Monday March 2nd, 2020 5:01:59 PM
'Lil takes another stab at the Liz-Fly

Hits AC 11 for 11 damage

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! d20+4=6 ;
Monday March 2nd, 2020 8:31:22 PM
{ooc: Sol your Ray of Frost had already killed the previous reature so no confirmation needed.}

Grindar and Bigby miss with their attacks, grinder had a very hard shot throwing though the tree branches and all and all. Caelwyn manages to land one more blow, just barely, and the yellow Liz-fly hangs for a second but its claws go slack and it plummets to the ground far below. Lil is there too.

The blue Liz-fly continues it’s archa round the tree and spotting one mage by himself on a branch tucks its wings and attempts to knock him clear out of the tree! On the way in it is hit by a shard of ice. {iic] Rolled that attack roll to here.} Its mass comes in hard and fast but it hits a branch with its head and Sol is fine. {CMB Bull Rush: 4}

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=19 ; d8+3=6 ;
Monday March 2nd, 2020 9:37:48 PM
Caelwyn takes a five foot...climb? to get closer to Sol, looking to stab the blue lizard with his trident if possible.

Attack 19, Damage 6

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+1=2 ;
Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 5:27:34 AM
With no other options, Grindar draws and let's fly with his last javelin, but misses worse than the last time (nat 1) as the javelin flies wide after hitting a branch.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 10:24:34 AM
"move back sol," Bigby suggests as he nocks another bolt in his little crossbow.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 7:04:54 PM
Sol nods at the suggestion, and tries to make cover for himself so he doesn't get attacked again, and uses Total Defense, to try and avoid being knocked out the tree.

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree!
Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 7:07:14 PM
Caelwyn moves through the tree. {ooc: which is a standard action as a move is needed to support yourself.} Grindar grabs his last javalin and hurls it hard. Hard enough that it sticks a few inches into the wood of the tree which causes the tree branch to swing back wide out of the way, clearly that hurt. Bigby suggests Sol move as he reloads his crossbow. Sol moves to a defensive position.

The liz-fly, which should be suprised to be alive, flies further from the tree again clearly ready to loop around for another run.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=22 ; d8+3=11 ;
Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 8:33:58 PM
Caelwyn changes tactics, deciding to take out his longbow and try to take a shot at the incoming lizard.

Attack 22, Damage 11

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=29 ; d8+7=10 ;
Wednesday March 4th, 2020 5:23:12 AM
Grindar readies an action to bring the full force of Bwyell down on the last Liz-Fly's head, if it comes into range.

Hit's AC 29 for 10 damage

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=9 ;
Wednesday March 4th, 2020 10:44:12 AM
Bigby fires off his crossbow att: 9. Bigby begins to curse his luck. "darn technology, wish could get me claws on that thing," Bigby mutters low.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=21 ; d8+3=9 ;
Wednesday March 4th, 2020 1:55:51 PM
"I love ya guys. You keep throwin' them sticks and hoping they hit. It's adorable!"

Meanwhile, 'Lil readies for the thing to come back so she can stab it.

Readied action: Hit AC 21 for 9 damage
Move: Hold on!

***

I've been sick for an entire week, but I'm finally starting to feel better. Thanks for the sub, Jeremy.

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree!
Wednesday March 4th, 2020 2:42:08 PM
Grindar readies an attack as Bigby launches another crossbow bolt that sails off to eventually hit a tree or a combatant below. This missed shot is ok though because Caelwyn does not miss with his shot. Caelwyn’s arrow flies very true and passes though the liz-flys large eye and out the back of its head. The wings beat once more by reflex before it dips to the side and spirals to the ground below.

As your eyes follow it down you see that the battle pattern has changed but you have a moment to catch your breath and look about. Sadly the tree is not giving off any of its healing fruit at the moment. The tree is however holding the branch that Rolth hit with a javelin fairly close to its body.

Perception DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: { A ways off a large burning beetle is engaged with three trees and several smaller creatures. The trees are winning but damage is being done on both sides. In the other direction a group of five liz-fly are batted from the air by vines being whipped about by a large tree. }

You have a moment of calm while you watch the battle below going on.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=3 ;
Wednesday March 4th, 2020 6:37:29 PM
Sol speaks up.

"Blimey... this is tragic... to see this battle... caused by problems in the Sargrass... I feel we must try and put a stop to all this mutation nonsense."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=5 ;
Wednesday March 4th, 2020 8:47:30 PM
Caelwyn agrees with Sol. "This is only going to get worse unless we can help put a stop to it...what a sad waste of life."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+11=16 ;
Thursday March 5th, 2020 5:46:34 AM
Perception 16
"At least our friends are winning" Grindar offers as a way of encouragement, though he feels the same way as his friends. Seeing his Javelin sticking in the tree, and the tree's reaction to it, Grindar, as carefully as possible removes the javelin and asks 'Lil to heal the tree. He apologizes to the tree for his error, which caused the tree's pain, and hopes 'Lil's healing skills can help fix what he broke.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday March 5th, 2020 11:20:20 AM
Bigby sighs and tries to catch his breath. It had been non stop for a while now.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=17 ; d6=3 ; d6=1 ; d6=5 ;
Thursday March 5th, 2020 11:59:25 AM
"HEY TREE!" 'Lil shouts. "I can heal you and anyone near me. Get me close to wherever I'm needed!"

Once there, 'Lil channels positive energy, healing 8 HP.

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree!
Thursday March 5th, 2020 2:26:14 PM
Sol comments on the tragedy going on below them to which Caelwyn agrees. Grinder his hartened that the good guys seem to be winning while Bigby catches his breath. Lil takes a moment to heal the group including the tree which had healed them. Bark reknits and the limb relaxes but it is all a stat reminder that those trees fighting with you can be hurt as much as you can.

Below you the fighting has shifted some, the smaller mutated creatures are seen less and less in favor of larger mutated creatures. It is thinning but still if you went down now you would most likely be overwhelmed. You have a moment more to watch, catch your breath and plan.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday March 5th, 2020 6:16:59 PM
Sol takes a deep breath and rolls back onto his backside so he's sitting.

"What are we going to do? We need to put a stop to these mutation blooms, but beyond the flowers that have been mentioned, do we know what is causing them?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=24 ; d8+3=8 ;
Thursday March 5th, 2020 8:48:13 PM
Caelwyn thinks as he nocks another arrow and looses it at the nearest mutant which is sort of on its own. "We need more information...we have to speak with Biel as soon as we can, to determine how we can stop this from happening. We can't hope to start a colony here with a situation like this going on. And many innocents may be harmed."

Attack 24, Damage 8

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday March 6th, 2020 5:35:09 AM
Grindar shimmies over to his friends and says, "Biel did say that ultimately the Warper-Sarr was behind these mutation blooms, as he is trying to use them to create his evolution. I can't help but wonder why the Weaver and Walker Sarrs don't do anything about it, as it seems an affront to their desires".

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d8+4=7 ;
Friday March 6th, 2020 11:09:21 AM
"They formed some sorta truce, didn't they? Agreed to disagree and whatnot?" She looks down at the melee. "Not sure this was parta that truce, though. Natural world can get pretty ugly at times even without mutatin' flowers, so who knows? Important part is that we all pretty much agree that this ain't cool, so we help Biel.

"I ain't got no idea how to do that, other than heal and stab. Speakin' of, you're still bleedin', C. Here..." She punches C lightly in the shoulder so she don't knock him outta the tree. It heals 7 HP. With the 8 from last round, he should be all patched up and ready to throw himself into danger again.

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree!
Friday March 6th, 2020 12:38:52 PM
Sol wonders what they are going to do to put a stop to the mutation bloom. Grindar remindes the group what Biel said about the Warper-sar being behind the mutations and wonders why the Weaver and Warper don’t do anything.

Lil brings up the truce but admits to having no idea what was in the truce. As she cannot work out how to deal with the big pictures she picks one of the things she can do well and heals up Caelwyn.

As this discussion happens things progress down on the ground. The giant beetle is still in mortal combat with the largest of the druidtrees, its druid and several smaller unmutated creatures. They are far off, over a hundred yards, so it is hard to tell much detail but all combantants seem to be worse for he wear.

Closer to you sevral creatures are engaging with the unmuted defenders. These large leopard, black as midnight, have six black snakes with red rigns, hissing and ready to strike, sprouting from their shoulders. It looks like the defenders are intercepting them at this point but some space is beginning to clear around the tree. Soon you may be able to get down and help but it is still a bit of a blender at this poinst.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Saturday March 7th, 2020 2:59:22 AM
Sol shakes his head.

"Such a senseless waste of life. I agree... this does seem like something the Warper would want, and while they may have agreed to a truce, I do not remember being told the underpinnings of the truce. For example, this..." he indicated the warzone "... could not really have been agreed. However it is happening, so someone broke the truce or found a loophole. We may need to see if we can find exactly what the Truce agreed to and see if we can try to reinforce it."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=20 ; d8+3=4 ; d8+3=11 ;
Sunday March 8th, 2020 2:21:42 PM
"Aye, something has happened...this is different from anything we have encountered so far", Caelwyn remarks as he looses another arrow at a nearby mutant.

He feels energy flowing back into him as his wounds heal. He smiles his thanks to Lil and whispers a prayer to Domi, to help him heal this land and protect the innocent.

Attack: 20 (not natural 20), Damage: 4 (OOC: ignore re-roll, I forgot we only re-roll 1s for healing)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Sunday March 8th, 2020 9:15:08 PM
Bigby listens to the party talk about what's going on. He continues to nock another bolt.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday March 9th, 2020 5:36:00 AM
Grindar finds all this unnecessary carnage heart breaking. He is prepared to continue the fight if needed, but is at his wits end as to why this is even being allowed to happen. "Weaver Sarr, Walker Sarr, do you guys see what the Warper Sarr is doing here?" Grindar yells out in frustration, "Don't you care that he is causing all this needless destruction and death?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=10 ;
Monday March 9th, 2020 10:34:25 AM
'Lil raises an eyebrow as Grindar starts mouthin' off at the Sargrass Powers. She puts a hand on his shoulder. "Remember we ain't here to get involved in the Sargrass aspect fight, dude. We're here to get druidwood to help folks back home."

All of her dudes should be healed up at this point. (OOC: Sol's showing he's down a few HP. Did you update your header after I channeled energy a few days ago?). She keeps an eye out around her, making sure nothing's sneakin' up on'em (perception: 10).

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree!
Monday March 9th, 2020 4:40:11 PM
Sol continues taking about the waste of life and wonders if they can find the exact details of the truce thinking it might need to be enforced. Calewyn launches another arrow that, despite the range, annoys one of the leopard beasts. Bigby listens and nocks a bolt.

Grindar calls to the Weaver and Walker to see what the Warper is doing. Lil reminds them that the fight between the powers is not their fight.

Farther away the battle of the titans is still raging between the biggest of the trees and gargantuan flaming beetle.

Below many things are coming clear and the non-mutates are winning the day more and more. The circle has pushed back from the tree and given many yards on each aide at the base. That is the good news. The bad news is that in a few places it looks as though the line is broken. In one, to the north, a large leopard with six black snakes ringed in red that sprout form tis shoulders, is staking in the directing of the tree. As you look up it looks as though a second might actually make it through as well.

There are no other defenders and you are about thirty feet up in the tree. What do you do next?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=8 ; d3=2 ;
Monday March 9th, 2020 6:06:43 PM
Sol breathes a sigh of relief, which turns to concern as he sees the line breaking.

"We need to do something!"

He points at it, and attempts to cast Ray of Frost. ((8 to hit, 2 damage))

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=19 ; d8+3=6 ;
Monday March 9th, 2020 9:58:22 PM
Caelwyn decides to focus on one of the leopards, and maybe deal some damage before it reaches the tree. He looses another arrow. "Let's take these out before they get too close..."

Attack 19, Damage 6

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday March 10th, 2020 5:28:20 AM
Grindar attempts to talk to the tree, asking if it could put him and his friends down so they can form a defensive line.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=9 ;
Tuesday March 10th, 2020 10:45:15 AM
Bigby fires his crossbow. att: 9

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday March 10th, 2020 4:57:19 PM
'Lil considers just jumpin' down, but this high up she'd probably just bust her ankle and get eaten. That ain't brave, that's stupid. She hears Grindar's request and seconds it.

"Yea tree dude! Put us down over there, or at least get us a little lower!"

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree!
Wednesday March 11th, 2020 4:21:48 PM
Caelway manages to hit the leopard that has defiantly made it though with an arrow doing enough damage to actually bring it down as it was quite wounded. The second leopard is coming faster and does not look to be damaged at all.

The tree does not respond to requests and actually is not moving. Perhaps its attention is elsewhere at the moment.

You could attack from above or have enough time to make it to the ground before the leopard arrives most likely.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+2=5 ;
Wednesday March 11th, 2020 4:29:59 PM
'Lil takes matters into her own hands and starts climbing down. She's not much of a climber, though. Let's hope she doesn't fall outta this tree.

Climb: 5

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=7 ;
Wednesday March 11th, 2020 7:33:44 PM
Sol flings another Ray of Frost, and promptly misses, sighing and resigning himself to not being as useful in combat as he might like.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+1=5 ;
Thursday March 12th, 2020 5:55:55 AM
Grindar tries to follow 'Lil down the tree, but like her, his climbing skills are pretty poor.

Climb 5

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday March 12th, 2020 2:38:59 PM
Bigby nocks another bolt, not wanting to fall out of the tree. He will continue to attack from up here.

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree!
Thursday March 12th, 2020 4:20:07 PM
Lil and Grindar make some headway getting down. {ooc: DC5 climb check} While neither is a great cimber they are athletic enough that the climb will not be deadly.

The creature is at a full sprint and makes it to the base of the tree. The cat is clearly a dangerous beast but it does not move to to scale the tree to get you. Instead it rears up to swipe its terrible claws at the living tree itself!

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+2=3 ;
Thursday March 12th, 2020 4:30:01 PM
'Lil continues climbing down, but her foot slips. She manages to grab a branch and save herself from falling, but she takes a moment to calm her rapidly beating heart.

Climb: 3. Within 5, so I shouldn't fall.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=10 ;
Thursday March 12th, 2020 6:39:17 PM
Sol watches his friends climb down, and decides to fire off another Ray of Frost in the general direction, because apparently his aim is rubbish.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=23 ; d8+3=5 ;
Thursday March 12th, 2020 8:50:11 PM
"Hey!" Caelwyn now adds falling to his death to his list of current concerns. "Back off, mutant!" He stays where he is, loosing another arrow at the new leopard.

Attack 23, damage 5

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+1=18 ;
Friday March 13th, 2020 5:32:05 AM
Climb Check 18
Grindar continues climbing down, managing to make another 5ft without incident. He is beginning to wonder whether or not he should invest in a better range weapon, or maybe just some more javelins.

OOC... What is the height of the tree again?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=13 ;
Friday March 13th, 2020 10:18:13 AM
Bigby fires another bolt att 13. "Blasted crossbow."

GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree!
Saturday March 14th, 2020 7:34:08 PM
Some of the team spend time climbing while others fire off arrow, bolts or shards of ice. Some find home some do not but it is Caelwyn who gets off a lucky shot into the creatures mouth. It chokes and falls over having taking internal damage.

Looking into the distance you see something truely unusual and terrifying. The gargantuan flaming beetle that had been battling the largest of the trees lands a powerful bite with its pincers. At the same time the tree pierces straight thought the insect. Both combatants topple to the ground and the area is silent for a moment. Looking around you see the mutates are for the most part dead but the loss of the tree is clearly a great loss.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday March 16th, 2020 5:28:39 AM
Grindar is feeling down hearted as he surveys the carnage before him. Such a waste of life and for what? He actually sheds a tear when he sees the mighty tree fall, and throws up a prayer to Pantheon hoping that this will be the end of this senseless carnage.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+2=12 ; d8=7 ;
Monday March 16th, 2020 11:44:57 AM
For the most part dead isn't the same as dead dead.

She continues climbing down, not content to just sit in this tree anymore. She does a better job this time.

climb: 12

Once down, she'll run over to that tree. She ain't sure how to tell if a tree is dead or not, but maybe if there's any life at all, she can heal it. She casts CLW, unwilling to take a chance that her channeled energy will revive nearby mutants as well. She heals 11 HP damage.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+2=11 ;
Monday March 16th, 2020 4:49:26 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang attempt to climb down 11 climb. Bigby takes in the battle. Not one for many words, but the battle is an awful sight.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20-1=12 ;
Monday March 16th, 2020 8:37:24 PM
Sol doesn't really move... he just stops after seeing the brutality. It's almost like he's gone catatonic. After a few moments he begins to climb down.

Vigil

"Farewell" DM Jerry
Monday March 16th, 2020 10:35:46 PM
There is silence. After what feels like several lifetimes, it is over.

Then weeping as a druid that looks like he's lived forever begins to cry softly holding onto the trunk.

Grinder earnestly prays to Pantheon.

'Lil, Bigbywolf with Wolfgang, and Sol slowly climb down and approach. This movement within the stillness seems to wake the other trees and druids from their immovability and they begin to slowly move.

Lil' approaches and reaches out to the burned and still ancient druid tree and tries to heal it. There is no effect.

Biel seems less affected as his tree is not present. He approaches one of the other druids, a female. "Murnian." He shakes her. "Murnian. Go ....he needs you now. Her red hair messed and a head injury dripping blood, she stumbles forward."

The druid stumbles forward to the weeping druid. "Grandfather, I...I am so sorry."

He turns and buries himself in her embrace, wracked with loss.

The trees as one, begin waving their branches and a combined low pitched voice, deeper than thunder, begins to sing the oldest of them all into the afterlife. The ancient one glows with a golden sheen for a few moments, then it fades.

Though you don't know the language, the one word they sing is understood by all.

"Farewell."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday March 16th, 2020 11:36:29 PM
Caelywn sighs, shaking his head. He wonders if the tree is sentient, or alive in the sense that it has a soul, or simply alive as all plant life is. Regardless, this is a clearly a major loss. He looks around for more enemies as he begins to climb down.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday March 17th, 2020 5:57:38 AM
Grindar continues to climb down then joins his friends, the sadness on his face and tears in his eyes, reveal more emotion than the half-orc youth was planning on sharing. He wishes desperately to talk to Biel and the other druids in hopes of gaining insight as to why this tragedy has unfolded, but he doesn't have the heart to speak at the moment. Finally, he says in the language that came with his new skill set, druidic, "My deepest of sympathies. This is truly a tragic loss of life, and a day for sadness". He gives a humble bow as a sign of respect for both the living and the dead, then adds, "May Gargul be merciful".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday March 17th, 2020 11:18:54 AM
Bigby takes in the scene and remains quiet. Bigby waves a goodbye to the trees not knowing if he'd ever see them again. "I'll miss you guys the most," he softly says.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday March 17th, 2020 2:52:01 PM
'Lil doesn't understand none of this, but she knew bravery when she saw it. That tree was brave. She learned some time ago that telling the bereaved that their loved ones died bravely was only welcome after they had time to process the shock. Doing so right after they lost'em just made folks angry.

She sighs sadly and backs away from the tree she couldn't heal. The people around here obviously suffered a great loss today. What effect would it have on the truce between them and those who followed a path of mutation?

Then, a morbid but practical thought: Is this ancient tree made of druid wood? The same druid wood they are all the way out here to procure? She wasn't about to go asking right now it they could chop it up and make a boat outta it, but the question lingers. If this was what they were here for, it would take a seriously diplomatic touch...and she wasn't sure she'd ever feel right about it. She never thought of druid trees as sentient, just rare.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday March 17th, 2020 7:51:03 PM
Sol, finishes climbing down, and looks downcast, but doesn't say anything. He still seems pretty shook up by the waste of life and the death that surrounds the party.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday March 17th, 2020 8:11:48 PM
Caelwyn feels a deep sorrow for the loss of the ancient tree. Clearly this was of great importance to the druids, and this whole community and ecosystem.

He approaches Biel. "This looks to be a devastating loss to these people...I'm sorry we couldn't prevent it from happening. How did this tragedy come about?"

OOC: Sorry, my last post went up the second the DM post did...that was supposed to go with the post from the day before.

We Must Go On [DM Jerry]
Tuesday March 17th, 2020 11:10:56 PM
Caelwyn finds no enemies, however, there seems to be plenty of bodies just to the north. It looks like the druids and their trees were fighting for their home at the end.

One of the younger druids, appearing perhaps middle-aged approaches Grinder and in a soft voice says, "Much thanks, visitor. My name is Fendan. My tree is that one there with the dark green moss. Its name is Mossbraid. I keep telling him it is too literal. Come sit." He leads to a nearby soft spot in the grass and sits. "Tell your friends to join us if they wish. By the way, the ents don't go to Gargul. Out of courtesy for the old times he sends them on to Eberyon who gives them rest in Maab's Valleys."

Biel comes up beside Bigbywolf and says, "Come let's join Grinder and Fendan."

As 'Lil backs away from the dead druid tree, the wild looking, redheaded Murnian, there with her grandfather, reaches out to touch your shoulder. "Thanks for trying...I...just couldn't move there for a sec.
You confirmed the passing, the honor is yours for the moot."

Murnian turns back to her grandfather. "Grandfather...Virgil, we've talked about this. We must go on. The Grove needs you."

The use of his name seems to cause Virgil to stir. He turns to her putting a hand on each cheek. "No granddaughter. I have no ent. After all these ages, Genyielt has passed on and is enroute to Eberyon and his rest. You now have the most ancient of the druid ents. You must be, no you now are, the new Steward of the Grove." He removes an ancient necklace that seems to sing a bit and places it upon her neck.

Biel pats the soft forest floor motioning to Sol to join the small group. "Look at all the mutated bodies over there." He points just north and to the dead one entwined with the dead tree. "The Bloom," Biel answers. "The trees and their druids fought to get the bloom. They will likely mourn for awhile. Later it will occur to them to ask why we have come and why after I left in disagreement with Virgil, I chose now of all times to return. We both must choose our words carefully when the time comes. Especially now."

Fenden nods to Biel. "Yes, best to give it time, my friend. But it is good to see you. I am glad you are home."

Biel says, "It is good to return for a time. However, you notice I did not bring Vanja with me. He stayed to protect our new grove."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday March 18th, 2020 6:18:13 AM
Grindar does as he is asked, and asks the rest to join him and Fenden for a sit. He doesn't know what to think about the passing of the necklace, or Biel's words, or the bloom, or any of this. The only thing that is certain, is that this 15 year old half-orc is feeling sadness like never before, and completely out of his league.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday March 18th, 2020 9:51:03 AM
The honor is hers for the moot? What the heck did that mean? She would ask Biel in private in a moment, but for now she gives a sad smile and grasps the woman's shoulder back. "There's a lot going on here that I don't understand, but I know loss and bravery when I see it. I'm real sorry for this loss, Murnian."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday March 18th, 2020 11:45:34 AM
Bigby puts his little arm around his giant half orc friend and lets out a sigh and some tears. Wolfgang wimpers along in unison with the pack. So this is grieving, Bigby thought.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday March 18th, 2020 9:28:53 PM
Sol sits when indicated and listens to what's being said, and after a few moments of the sadness, his eyes dry and a firmness comes into them.

"So we need to stop the Bloom then. Do we know what is causing it?"

Everyone! Gather [DM Jerry]
Wednesday March 18th, 2020 10:36:02 PM
Murnium says, "Thanks....and you are?"

Biel says, "Ask away, 'Lil. If you have a question, I'll try to answer it. It might help us shake off tonight's events to...talk.

Oh! This is Sol, Bigbywolf, 'Lil, Grinder and Caelwyn. They are a bonafide adventuring group, from...and you're not going to believe this part...they are from Rattledam. They and those who came with them are rebuilding it on the old ruins."

A deep voice says, "The bloom is taken care of."

Murnium says, "That's Quickbud, the tree I'm joined with. He speaks more than most, thus the first part of his name."

Quickbud says, "We are all injured."

Murnium jumps to he feet. "Oh! Please forgive me!"

"Nothing to forgive. You were in shock. Now you are not joined one."

Biel hops up. "Is the medicinals still in the same place as always?"

She nods while checking Quickbud for injuries. "Everyone! Gather. Find your tree, help others. Anything we can't heal we cover with sap and let it heal naturally. You know the drill."

She says to the party, "Go north, probably 1000 ft or so. Look for the sign of the Manfri among the rock pile you'll find there. Enter and bring back everything you can carry."

Biel goes to Quickbud and begins healing his wounds, which seem to all be on the roots and lower trunk.

Murnium says, "But..."

Biel says, "You lead. Encourage..." He grins. "Keep being grandfather."

There are nearly a hundred trees.

Virgil remains with his dead partner.

=====

You were supposed to already be aware of the bloom. Will include info in the email.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday March 19th, 2020 8:30:13 AM
'Lil makes a mental note to ask Biel about moot stuff later. For now trees were suffering.

"Will my healing magic work on them?" 'Lil asks anyone who will listen. If so, 'Lil lets her dudes go get the healing supplies and expends all her healing magic. She can channel energy twice for 2d6, cast 2 CLW for 1d8+4, and 2 CMW for 2d8+4.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=28 ; d20+2=21 ;
Thursday March 19th, 2020 12:57:36 PM
Caelwyn stands silently for a moment. His heart grieves for the eldest druid and the ancient ent, who had clearly been bonded for a long time.

But he also gives thought to their own mission. "What a mess", he murmers to himself, looking around the battlefield. They had a simple mission - to help create and protect a settlement in the Sargrass. Things were getting more complicated every day. "Domi, give me the wisdom to make the right decisions here..."

Out loud, he responds to Murnium with a slight bow, "In Domi's name, I will do all I can to help. We will investigate the rock pile at once, and hopefully we can speak further later. We are so sorry for your losses."

Diplomacy 28

He then turns and begins to make his way north, searching for the rock pile.

Perception 21

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday March 19th, 2020 1:07:21 PM
Grindar simply bows his head in understanding, then starts heading in the appropriate direction. “Finally, something I can help with!” He says under his breath.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday March 19th, 2020 3:00:33 PM
Bigby listens and nods. Looks to see that someone else got because he might forget the mission at hand. He sees others nod and goes back to nodding in agreement to the mission with confidence.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday March 19th, 2020 8:29:48 PM
Sol nods alongside Lil's words before following to the north.

"Why do I get the feeling this task will appear so simple, yet be so much more difficult?"

The Rock Pile [DM Jerry]
Thursday March 19th, 2020 9:47:12 PM
Passing through all the dead bodies from the battle is surreal. What a battle! What a waste.

The party finds the rock pile easily. It is about 15' tall and about 25' wide. It looks natural. If the pile is "Ent made" or "Manfri made" it is well done.

The rocks are made of granite, which is VERY strange in the Sargrass. Probably they have been here for a very long time.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=18 ;
Friday March 20th, 2020 9:43:44 AM
"Right, so we're looking for a sign of the Manfri," states 'Lil, looking at the pile. She cranes her neck looking at the top of the tall tower of rock. "This ain't what I'd call a pile. This thing's big!" She starts looking for...whatever it is they're looking for. Hopefully she'll know it when she sees it.

Perception: 18

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+3=16 ;
Friday March 20th, 2020 3:23:00 PM
knowledge geography: 16 to find out more about the rocks and the significance of granite. Bigby walks over and observes the rock in a sherlock holmes fashion. He turns and points a finger as though he has an epiphany. and then he puts the finder down and looks back at the rock again. Must be something to glean from here. ok, no pressure druid.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+11=13 ;
Friday March 20th, 2020 5:01:05 PM
At the rock pile Grindar also searches for the Manfri sign perception 13.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=10 ;
Friday March 20th, 2020 8:53:22 PM
Caelwyn is curious to learn more about this rock pile. It looks rather unusual in this environment. He begins to search as well.

Perception 10

Mark of the Manfri [DM Jerry]
Friday March 20th, 2020 10:15:06 PM
Our adventurers search for the "Sign of the Manfri." Cailwyn searches thinking it is very unusual to have a rock pile like this in this place. Nothing catches her eye. Grinder searches for the Manfri sign as well.

BigbyWolf has a different take on things and investigates why the rocks are here and why they are granite. It is right on the tip of his tongue. Then it hits him. Granite lasts a long time. This rock is also not "quite" like any granite he's ever seen before. There are tiny blue veins in places. Long time.... This rock formation has been here for a very long time. Likely longer than even the Sargrass. Back to the time of the...well whatever was here before the Sargrass. Wait! The Druid Trees are that old! But there has to be more! Why would the trees need such a place?

Then 'Lil finds it. The mark is in High Woldian. A filled black circle with a black line heading down and hooking back up diagonally. Almost like an upside down musical note, but not quite. So weird!

=====
Attaching a diagram of the mark.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+11=17 ;
Saturday March 21st, 2020 11:18:30 AM
"What a strange mark, anyone have any idea as to what it means?", Grindar asks his friends, as he looks for an entrance Perception 17

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Sunday March 22nd, 2020 8:39:32 AM
Sol shakes his head.

"No idea."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=4 ;
Sunday March 22nd, 2020 9:23:37 PM
Caelwyn has never seen such a mark, to his knowledge. "It must have some religious or magical significance...but I cannot be sure." He also looks around for an entrance. Unfortunately, it just looks like a big pile of rocks to him.

Perception 4

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Monday March 23rd, 2020 9:32:16 AM
'Lil thinks she's got a good head on her shoulders, but it's totally unburdened by actual knowledge. She has no idea what to do here.

So, she pushes it and sees what happens.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday March 23rd, 2020 12:20:21 PM
Bigby relays the information he's learned about the granite being old and a possible connection that escapes him to the trees and the granite. "musical note. whatever happened to that bard we used to have. Too bad he's not here, because me...I don't do music." Bigby figures he's got noting to lose here by trying to detect magic on the symbol. and if that doesn't work then on the rocks.

Yes? [DM Jerry]
Monday March 23rd, 2020 9:32:57 PM
Grinder perceives several things. First, obviously the mark is aimed towards someone that knows its meaning. Someone arriving here for the first time that will recognize the sign and follow it.

Several ideas occur.

A musical note.

An arrow.

A key.

A trap.

Instructions...for getting inside or under.

Caelwyn says it may have religious or magical significance.

Then 'Lil pushes it. Which doesn't work, but a soft sound "bongs."

You each feel a mental touch. As if it tests each of you. It searches honest thoughts and feelings.

Who are you?

Why are you here?

What do you seek?

Why?

Then a soft voice out loud. "Yes?"

[Along with your post and actions, please give your honest opinions and feelings concerning the Druid Trees, the druids, any anything else that you feel strongly about.]

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=16 ;
Monday March 23rd, 2020 10:32:42 PM
Caelwyn looks around, startled, but not fearful. "I seek...peace. Peace and protection for those who are suffering. Peace by the sword, but only if necessary, only to protect the innocent." He tries to perceive where the voice is coming from.
Perception 16

Honest opinions and feelings: Caelwyn speaks to the voice with his thoughts; "I am conflicted in my mind. We came to the Sargrass Plains to help found a new colony, but our journey seems to be taking us ever farther from achieving that goal. And now I find that the druidwood we hoped to use to advance our colony is part of a living being, one that seems to be sentient and bound to the druids who live here. How can I in good conscience allow such a thing? I am thankful for my companions, but our journey grows ever murkier...I desire clarity about which aspect of the Sargrass to support here, if support one we must."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday March 24th, 2020 12:14:42 PM
Sometimes, you just gotta push the button. 'Lil ain't thrilled with voices in her head what ain't Domi's, but it is what it is. She decides to keep her answers concise.

"I'm 'Lil, and we're here because some druids asked us to come here and bring back everything we could carry. There was a brawl with a bunch'a mutated critters and a lot of folks and trees go hurt." She doesn't vocalize that this delay could cost them, but the thought occurs to her unbidden.

"If we're bein' honest, I'm a little sore that we're even here. We had a choice between gettin' druidwood and bringing in more help to Rattledam. Everyone else thought druidwood was the way to go, and I was out voted. I'd shrugged my shoulders and moved on from the whole thing, but the further down this path we go the more sure I am I was right. I can't in good conscious ask a sentient tree to give it's life so we can have a cool boat to navigate the Sargrass with. We've gone through a lot to get here, and I ain't sure we're getting anything outta it but knowledge and disappointment. That ain't as helpful to New Rattledam than a bunch of sturdy backs and hands." She looks around at her dudes and shrugs. "Feels like we're meddling in things we don't understand, but we could end up hurtin' folks if we make the wrong choices. It's frustrating."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday March 24th, 2020 1:24:41 PM
“My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, a Ranger, and now Druid who serves Pantheon. I’m here seeking whatever I can find that may help a bunch of Driuds, and their trees, they are pretty banged up after a nasty battle brought on by the Warper-Sarr’s mutants. I hate all the senseless death, and am willing to do what I can to stop an more in the future. My heart is broken over the loss of the trees, druids, fey, and even the mutants, as they didn’t chose to be mutated, who died. We originally came for Druid wood, not fully understanding what that meant, but now, I wonder if we shouldn’t just build a wall around the Sargrass, with signs saying keep out, only Death can be found here. I blame the Warper-Sarr for this carnage, and question why the Weaver and Walker-Sarrs don’t do anything. I guess I blame them too, since they chose to turn a blind eye to such, dare I say, evil activity”.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday March 24th, 2020 1:57:51 PM
Honest opinions: We haven't hunted in forever. That's the worst. Also, people probably don't want to hear this, but I think it's pretty cool to be talking and fighting next to giant trees. If only there were more wolfs in this area. Ah, but there's always Wolfgang. I feel strongly a love for Wolfgang and for my fighting party here. Also, I could eat.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday March 24th, 2020 8:12:30 PM
"I am Elijah Solomon. I am here to help settle Rattledam. I see the knowledge and skills of greater mages than I, so that I may learn from them and become better at my chosen craft."

Sol says this all simply and plainly, with out emotion, and calmly.

DM - Highlight to display spoiler: {Underneath Sol is a roil of emotion, he's sad he left his hometown, he's unsure of his abilities and not sure he's as skilled as he needs to be. He feels protective of the druids and the trees, and is happy to be helping them, he just doesn't feel like he's powerful enough. He thinks that the druid trees will be beneficial for Rattledam, and that's his main goal at the moment.}

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday March 24th, 2020 10:30:09 PM
Calwyn listens for the response of the voice.

Consider Something [DM Jerry]
Tuesday March 24th, 2020 11:10:36 PM
Caelwyn expresses his doubts and confusion. Lil doubts that using the wood of a sentient creature is right. Grinder is practical in his thinking, but his heart goes out to the dead and injured. Bigbywolf is even more practical and misses the hunt. Sol expresses his inadequacy to the situation while thinking about the original task: settling Ratledam.

You realize, that you have all been judged. A glimpsing thought comes that the tester is surprised to find beings in this age of such honest integrity and from such youth.

Below the symbol solid rock seems to fade. A low crawlway is revealed headed down. Inside something pulses faintly with a greenish hue.

Entering, you see a conical room like the inside of a Hershey's kiss, narrowing to the top, with the floor some 10' below the rock formation.

A shrine is in the middle with a very old staff in the center. It is what is pulsing.

Around the perimeter are some stone jars with lids and some "pockets" of liquid also pulsing green. Beside each pot is a ladle also made of stone.

You hear the voice again out loud. "Take the staff. It will heal the Ents and rejuvenate them. Fill the pots and take. They will heal the druids. Return everything when finished. And consider something, for me. Consider making the choice to call the beautiful Sargrass, home."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday March 25th, 2020 12:13:54 PM
'Lil wonders who's talking to them. People and trees are hurt, so it's no time to chat, but she talks as she grabs the staff.

"I miss home, but I'll be here a while. This place may grow on me yet. It ain't ever boring; I'll give it that. Who are you anyway?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday March 25th, 2020 12:35:58 PM
"aside from getting swallowed by a frog, and eaten by large fire ants, and almost killed by short canibals, and almost dying...the Sargrass isn't that bad...I mean it's growing on me." Bigby smiles. Wolfgang shakes his head in agreement.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday March 25th, 2020 1:10:50 PM
Out of a strong desire to help the ents and druids, Grindar gets to works lads long the liquid into the pots. As he is working, he asks the voice, “May I ask to whom we are speaking?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday March 25th, 2020 6:51:59 PM
Bigby forgets that they have work. and is a little embarrassed that he forgot but snaps to after seeing everyone else start working. H

"So stranger friends, why have you come?" [DM Jerry]
Wednesday March 25th, 2020 10:00:06 PM
"I will reveal myself when you return my thing," the voice says. "Concentrate on the healing for now."

Lil grabs the staff.

Wolfgang talks to the voice, relating some of the experiences they have had in the Sargrass to date.

Grander loads all the stone containers with the liquid. Bigby does the same.

And very quickly, the party is rushing south to the trees and is healing both trees and druids.

Biel turns to Murnium. "You tested them, thinking you knew why I brought them. They surprised you. They passed the test of Maab. So now, you know there was more than one reason to bring them."

Murnium turns to him and lays her hands on his shoulders. "Yes. But you must give us time to trust."

Beil bows respectfully. "You are Steward of the Grove."

After about an hour, all are healed, most of the stone containers are empty and fatigue sets in.

Murnium casually gathers everyone and says, "The only thing that can happen when one is fatigued is to make bad decisions. Get some rest, mourn, sleep if you can. We will meet with our stranger friends in the morning."

In the morning, there is bread and honey for breakfast. Afterwards, everyone gathers near the corpse of Genyielt, with Virgil still sitting near him, and Murnium, laying the staff the party brought the night before in her lap says very simply, "So stranger friends, why have you come?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=18 ;
Wednesday March 25th, 2020 11:06:59 PM
Caleywn inclines his head respectfully. "Thank you for your welcome. We understand the need for testing - you have little prior knowledge of us, and this is your domain to protect. We have come here to seek what help we can for the establishment of a new settlement here in the Sargrass."

Diplomacy 18

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday March 26th, 2020 4:19:51 AM
Sol nods, letting the more, diplomatic members of the party talk, and still thinks on everything he saw, and how stunning and impressive it was.

He only wishes to go back to study it some more.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday March 26th, 2020 10:05:23 AM
At night, when her and her dudes are alone, she ponders. "How come none of us put two and two together that druid wood came from a druid's tree?" She goes quiet for a second, then ponders some more. "Were all those other druid wood craft made from the wood'a conquered druid trees? Did the old Rattledam folks invade druid groves for it? Could explain some of why the three Sargrass aspects is against each other, and why they're slow to trust us when we show up from New Rattledam seekin' resources." She shrugs, then rolls over and falls asleep real fast.

*** Next morning! ***

'Lil chuckles as Cae talks. Out here in the bush among druids, and he's still talkin' fancy. She loved that about'im.

"Yea, that's right," she adds. "But pretty sure we're all realizin' we didn't know what we were getting ourselves into." She gets quiet for a second, wondering if they should just spill the beans. She thinks they should, but don't think it's right for her to decide that for the whole group.

Of course, this is probably a real good time to listen to what these druids have to say. They have a lot more to learn from them then they have to learn from us, that's for sure.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday March 26th, 2020 1:21:25 PM
In spite of the test, Grindar feels that the druids have been straight with them, saved their lives, with the help of their fey and tree friends even, so he feels that it would only be right to do likewise. He says, ”Like my friends have said, we are trying to rebuild Rattledam, and create a safer place to live and means of travel. We were originally sent north to ask the Crystal Mountain monks for aid, and they sent us here in search of Druid wood. Of course we were completely ignorant of the woods true origins, had we know they were a sentient being, we would have stayed in Rattledam. We stand before you with a desire of friendship and possibly future trade partners, but our search for Druid wood is over, and should have never began, I know my friends agree with me in this”.Turning to Lil, Grindar says, ”We should have listened to you sister, I apologize for not doing so”.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday March 26th, 2020 5:58:34 PM
Bigby listens and nods his head in agreement as members talk. Say something about Bigby, he wasn't one to waste words. Especially when others could do it better.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday March 26th, 2020 9:11:01 PM
Caelwyn's insides twist into a knot as Grindar mentions the Druidwood. He was not planning on mentioning that just yet - this young half-orc still has a lot to learn about diplomacy...who knows what the druids might think of them now.

He nods along with Grindar's words, however, making it clear that they certainly do not indeed to take wood from any of these tree-creatures now.

"I Knew it!" [DM Jerry]
Thursday March 26th, 2020 10:14:06 PM
The druids listen carefully to Caelwyn's words and most seem to be thinking and evaluating.

There are several smiles as 'Lil adds her comments.

You hear soft voices saying things like, "Mature beyond their years, but trust comes slowly."

"They passed Murnium's test. You don't fool...HER."

Then Grinder gets to the point. They came for Druid wood, but were ignorant of what that meant.

One tall muscular druid jumps to his feet. "I knew it! There's only one reason they came and you knew it too Murni! They want the wood, the FLESH, the BONES of our friends. And our leader just DIED!!!"

He turns and stomps away. His tree follows.

Several others start to rise to go with him. Murnium, however, with a commanding voice says, "SIT!"

Her eyes slowly travels the circle of people, then she goes around again looking at the trees. "They showed respect. They fought. The stone hill's guardian gave up some of her secrets to them. The staff permitted itself to be used by them. THINK on that guardians. Please, think on that."

Of the druids that were angry, most listen. A few do not, but remain seated. Again, she waits. She seems to have learned from her grandfather the skills of leadership well.

[Perception check of 12 to notice that during all the drama, Virgil turns around, still seated, re-crosses his legs and watches. He looks tired. He needs more than rest, he needs...time.]

She turns to you, the visitors. "Tell us about...what did you call it? Rattledam please. It will help for you to tell us of your new home in the north. It must be a special place for you to have come all this way. The need must be dire to have sent what is obviously their best to quest for help."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=11 ;
Friday March 27th, 2020 12:01:02 AM
'Lil puts a hand on Grindar's shoulder, a subtle gesture showing she was still with him. "I became a part'a this when I agreed to come along, dude." She decides to thread the needle between defending herself and her dudes, and showing some contrition.

"You want to consider us foolish for not realizin' the fancy druidwood boats we heard about came from your druid trees, that's fine. We beat ya to it last night though. But we ain't here now to take anything you ain't giving freely, and none'a us would consider asking or taking for your loved ones anymore than we'd ask to harvest the body of anyone's dead. We're a lot of stupid things, but we ain't ravegers, savvy?"

She takes a moment for her words to settle, then continues.

"New Rattledam's just a shell right now with a colorful cast of characters who don't get along well. Thich and Freakshow were kinda in charge when we left. One's a monk, the other's got a mo-hawk and talks funny. They've started attractin' merchants, most of whom are getting themselves killed trying to reach us.

"My understandin' is Rattledam used to be as much a part of the Sargrass as the Manfri or the Crystal Mountains. Lot of native folks seem to want it back, so that's what we're aiming to do. There's a lot we don't understand about this place, but figured a vessel that could ferry people safely above the grasses would save lives. I'm real sorry about your losses yesterday, hand to heart, but our motives in coming here were right and true and I'd face my god secure in knowin' I was here for the right reason."

Diplomacy to move the needle back to friendly-ish, 11. Hopefully my heartwarming speech gives me an invisible bonus, or my dudes can aid other.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=11 ; d20+1=10 ;
Friday March 27th, 2020 7:02:45 AM
Sol will attempt to aid another (10 on the diplomacy roll!).

"Please, friends, we are not here to take anything from you. We were merely sent out to retrieve druidwood, and having found out what it is, we will not be taking any of it. It would be disrespectful, and we all respect yourselves and the Sargrass. You have made your homes here well before we came along. We wish to learn from you, how you survive in balance with the Sargrass so that we might model it to our fellows, please, think of us as children, awakening to a whole new world and wanting to learn from those that already know."

While slightly stilted an awkward, Sol's speech is in earnest and that comes through somewhat.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday March 27th, 2020 1:25:56 PM
Feeling like he may have spilled the beans, about the Druid wood, a little earlier than maybe he should have, Grindar keeps quiet for the time being.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday March 27th, 2020 3:06:19 PM
Bigby realizing there's not much for him to add here. He just adds, "The Sargrass plains are a difficult place for newcomers to survive. And our community has almost been decimated a few times. All we are asking for is help for our people." Bigby doesn't want to say much more since 'Lil has said it better. He just rubs Wolfgangs head out of nervousness.

"What!!?" [DM Jerry]
Friday March 27th, 2020 10:36:36 PM
'Lil "gets real" and honest with her comments. Not sugar coating it, but still showing respect. Murnium's eyes settle on him for a bit. The corners of her mouth turn up just for a second.

Bigby expresses how hard it has been for their community. Several druids nod, others look at each other.

Grinder stays silent, but follows the conversation. Quickbud, Myrnium's Ent lowes a branch and places it comfortingly on his shoulder and hums with a low pitched voice.

Sol says very strongly that now that they know where the wood comes from, they will not be taking any of it, and is almost interrupted.

Virgil stands and without hesitation says, "You will take Genyielt's wood, his body."

The shock is palpable. No one could have thought the drama could tick another notch higher, but Virgil's statement does the trick. Murnium rises spinning and trips on her own feet falling back on her backside to face her grandfather.

The Ents shake their leaves with the gravity of the statement.

Finally Biel sums up what everyone is thinking and says, "What!!?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday March 27th, 2020 11:50:37 PM
Caelwyn looks up in shock. He was already impressed that the druids hadn't thrown them out - but this was beyond anything he had expected. "But...why? He is clearly one to who you all honored and venerated. We would never want to dishonor him after his passing!"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Saturday March 28th, 2020 5:53:37 AM
Sol looks shocked and is at a complete loss for words... after a moment he seems to catch himself.

"I... I do not think we were expecting that... nor would we want to desecrate him in such a way... it would not be respectful."

He then turns to the others, and speaks low enough that only they can hear.

"We may have to refuse this gift I feel... I do not wish to offend them, even if they have offered this to us... I feel taking it would be a mistake as this may be a test to see if we are true, and even if it is not, I am still not sure I am comfortable with taking his corpse..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Saturday March 28th, 2020 9:21:56 AM
When Grindar sees Murniam stumbling, he instinctively rushes forward to try to catch her, failing that, he offers her a hand up. Like everyone else, he is shocked by Virgil’s words, and with uncertainty in his voice he says, ”Sir, your offer is most kind, but are you sure that your friend would want his remains cut into lumber? As my friends have already said we wish to honor the mighty ent, not build boats out of him. My heart breaks still over such a loss, are your words really the right ones? By the time Grindar is done talking, tears are welling In his eyes again.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Saturday March 28th, 2020 2:52:08 PM
"maybe we're looking at this wrong. To me, if my remains can provide safety to my loved ones, It would honor me. But that's just my thought. Just know that his sacrifice to our community will not be wasted. It will save many people. And for your offer, we are grateful. Is there anything we can do in return." This is how it sounds in Bigby's mind, but it may not come out as smoothly to everyone else. There may be some grunts and uhhhhhhs in place of certain words. But hopefully he thinks his sincerity comes across.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday March 29th, 2020 9:10:45 PM
Caelwyn continues to wait, curious to hear what Virigil will say. He seems certain, but Caelwyn remains both surprised and uncertain.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Monday March 30th, 2020 9:48:55 AM
One'a these days, she was gonna have a talk with her dudes about when to let other folks talk. This wasn't their discussion to have.

She simply answers, "if that happens, his sacrifice will save many lives. Seems that ya'll have a discussion to have that our input may not be welcome in by a lotta folks here. Would ya like us to make ourselves scarce so you can discuss'it?"

"Don't 'but grandfather me,' child. I'm not finished." [DM Jerry]
Monday March 30th, 2020 11:26:03 PM
Virgil notes that Grinder helps Murnium get up. Our heroes express their own shock at Virgil's pronouncement. But Virgil just stands there, a wan smile on his face. "We were more than friends. We have been bound together for, well since Eberyon created us. I am the last that has fey blood. and Genyielt was the first. I was not his first bound companion. He pulls back his hair to show his ears.

"Burning his wood is our tradition, but I know my Genyielt. He would honor these young ones that carry so much heart....and honor...with his wood and his blessing for it. We have all been surprised by your behavior since you arrived. You are not what we expected. If I guess right, you have become more seasoned by this journey. It should not be for naught.

"Biel, you have finally persuaded me after all this time. But not for anything you have done. It is these young ones from the Second Creation that have changed my mind. I still don't know if we should embrace the Sargrass, fight both it and the Mutation, or fight for a return for our lands. I am comfortable in our lands. But I do know that we must be a part of what comes. It is time to be uncomfortable."

"But grandfather!" Murnium pleads.

"Don't 'but grandfather me,' child. I'm not finished. I will travel with my Genyielt. I will learn with these young ones how to make the boat and then I will captain it! And you will remain here to preserve what we have."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=27 ;
Monday March 30th, 2020 11:54:52 PM
Caelwyn stands and faces Virgil. He bows slowly. "I speak in all honesty, Virgil - your wisdom is evident in your words. We are overwhelmed by such an offer."

Diplomacy 27

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday March 31st, 2020 4:47:45 AM
Grindar's emotions get the best of him, as Virgil shares his intentions, and tears run down his cheeks as he says, "Your kindness is more then we deserve! Once the boat is constructed I say we should christen it the Genyielt, in honor of your friend, who's sacrifice has made this possible!

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday March 31st, 2020 12:09:34 PM
The last bit raises 'Lil's eyebrow a bit. Virgil was going to captain the ship? To what ends? It wasn't a revelation that upset her, but it did get her curiosity up.

She figures Virgil had the chance to shoo them away when she offered, so she reckons she's free to speak her mind. Emotions were runnin' high, so she keeps hers tempered. "I ain't got much to add, other then to say thank you, Virgil, for your kind words 'bout us. While I wouldn't dream'a telling you what to do with the ship your friend's sacrifice built, I do hope you'll help us bring folk safely to New Rattledam. The place is gonna need capable hands if it's gonna survive."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday March 31st, 2020 12:20:19 PM
Sol nods along with the others, and while his face shows he is clearly torn between speaking and not, he errs on the side of caution and remains quiet. After all, what more can he say?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday March 31st, 2020 1:29:59 PM
Bigby learns when to nod and when to speak and this time he just nods affirmatively. A thought comes to his mind and he opens his mouth and Wolfgang snarls at him, so Bigby closes his mouth. He just sticks to nodding.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday March 31st, 2020 9:31:54 PM
Caelwyn's confusion starts to vanish as he thinks on Virgil's words:

"I still don't know if we should embrace the Sargrass, fight both it and the Mutation, or fight for a return for our lands. I am comfortable in our lands. But I do know that we must be a part of what comes. It is time to be uncomfortable."

This druid had lived for countless years. And even he is unsure about the scale of the situation with the Sargrass, and what to do about it. Clearly they were all part of something much bigger now than simply settling a new town in the Sargrass Plains. His vision and help here may be the best hope they have going forward.

Becoming Seasoned [DM Jerry]
Tuesday March 31st, 2020 9:43:10 PM
The responses from the party are what is becoming habit. They are becoming seasoned. They are still somewhat inexperienced, but they have become wise.....the leaders that are needed.

Everyone kinda just looks at each other.

Murnian after the long pause says, "Druids and trees. We have things to do." She gets up and heads to her tree. "If I can have a ride, Quickbud, we can return Maab's tools." She gathers the vessels and the staff and a limb lowers to raise her into a lower branch.

Quickbud says, "It's not far, Munian."

Murnian says, "That's not the point."

After a few moments the other druids and trees go to see about other things and perhaps to give the party some room.

Virgil spreads his hands wide and looks at the visitors. "So, comrades, how do you do this?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday April 1st, 2020 4:26:45 AM
Sol looks a little awkward. As if unsure, he looks like he's about to say something, but thinks better of it, realising he's not the most diplomatic, and after the emotional shock, he recognises he's probably not the best one to speak, so he looks to Lil.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday April 1st, 2020 5:51:07 AM
Grindar is clueless as to what to do next. He can swing an ax sure, but his father was a farmer, not a lumberjack, as such his rudiment learning is farm related. That and the knowledge he gained through training to become a Ranger, and Druid, are really all he knows. He does open his mouth finally and says, "I have no idea as to how we should proceed next, though the monks said they would help. By the way, would there be anyway I could get some armor more befitting a druid? I left home with this steel breastplate, which was my fathers, but I can't seem to feel natures energies while wearing it. Is there some place here I can purchase some hide armor, or something along those lines?

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday April 1st, 2020 9:15:11 AM
'Lil stopped the druids from taking the healing gifts back.

"Pardon friends, but the voice at that rock pile place specifically asked us to return them. Said it had more to tell us. Not gonna ask you not to come along or nothin'. This is your place, not ours, but we gave our word and I for one intend to keep it."

Regarding the boat, 'Lil has no idea. "Maybe we ask Biel? There was that dude at the museum who had that skiff. Maybe he knows?

"This wood's way too valuable and special to risk screwin' this up, though. We really outta bring it all back to Rattledam somehow where the captain and sailors are." She has no idea how they're gettin' a whole tree back to Rattledam, though.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday April 1st, 2020 9:02:51 PM
"In all honesty, Virgil, none of us are skilled craftsmen. We had hoped to obtain knowledge, or perhaps a small amount of wood. We figured we would cross this bridge when we came to it...which we now have, it seems. I agree with Lil, Biel is the person to talk to first."

Dude at the Museum? [DM Jerry]
Wednesday April 1st, 2020 10:31:35 PM
Biel says to Grinder, "We have no businesses. I'll ask around if anyone has anything they can trade with you or perhaps give to ya. We have some crafters, but that takes time since we'd have to find the hides, and start from the scratch.

Biel yells after Murniun. "Sis! Stop. 'Lil says the voice at the rock formation asked them specifically to return the healing tools. You can come with unless our friends think they should do it alone?"

Murnium stops, is lowered to the ground and says. "Very well." It almost comes out as a question. "Did she give any hint as to why? I'm curious now." She smiles, her head swiveling between 'Lil and Biel."

Virgil says, "Dude at the museum? A skiff?" Here's what I remember from when we were plundered of our wood in the old days. They would....." He pauses a pained look on his face. Then he strengthened his nerve.

"They forced us to use spells to straighten the larger limbs. Sometimes they would split the trunk longways into two halves and make two boats out of one tree. For some unknown reason, when the Sargrass came, it and the druid trees repelled each other. They still do. Very strongly. So if you brought in a druid tree, it would harm the tree, but kill the grass. Some of the grass that moved would actually run away. A dead druid tree; however, floated. Even if the grass was 10-15' tall it would float above it. Normal sails would move the ship. Some rare forms of grass, especially Steelgrass didn't have the repelling property so they would make sails, decks, etc. out of that. Or they brought in wood from outside to finish out the ships using the druid tree wood for the "bones" of the ship.

"Sorry that's about all I remember."

"If we don't need it all, we can still perform the usual rites here with what is left?"

Beil says, "I don't think we'll have a use for the smaller branches, sir. We will perform the rites with them for sure."

Beil turns to the party. "I know nothing of ship building. What made you think I did? The monks sent you to me, right? What did they tell you then? They had a skiff? That's a small boat right? Wait. Was it made of Druid Wood? Did they have anything else useful in that museum of theirs?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 4:45:09 AM
Sol nods.

"They did have a small boat, yes. They said it was, but that was their only example, hence why they sent us out to get more. Unfortunately, I also am not a shipwright, so I have no idea the construction skills needed, though I suspect the Monks will know more. After all, they created the one they have on display I would assume..."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 8:53:51 AM
'Lil winces as her fears about the druidwood boat's past proves to be true. She tries to provide some comfort to Virgil. "Dude, you have my word that I'll be here to help stop that from happenin' ever again. I'd be shocked if my dudes didn't agree with me."

The mention of the museum jogs her memory. "There was a woman named Edith who offered to help us build a ship in exchange for...well, this was before we realized what druidwood really was. She offered to help us build a boat for some wood of her own.

Current situation makes it tough. You're not really giving us the wood, so we can't give it to her. At the same time, she made it clear she's all business. She won't be helpin' us without a reason.

There were also two monks what let us use that crystal to help find the wood." Her face turns hard. "Given how it was probably used in the past, I ain't in no mood to help them reestablish themselves as druidwood raiders." 'Lil digs through their stuff, looking for that crystal, then hands it to Virgil. "This is how they found your trees. I want you to have it. I think thy forgot how to make'em, so hopefully they won't be trackin' any more trees down this way."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 12:25:03 PM
Bigby just listens as 'Lil speaks. He had no idea the wood would come from a living being. His mind goes off to hunting now and then, but he tries to re focus back to the discussion and nods when he does.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday April 2nd, 2020 1:15:47 PM
At the mention of defending the Druid groves, Grindar quickly chimes in, “Anyone who would chose to slaughter such majestic beings, for profit, will face my ax!”

DM Steve -- Among the rocks
Friday April 3rd, 2020 12:09:23 AM
Virgil, with apologies to the adventurers, follows the druids to discuss what rites they should perform with Genyielt's branches, carrying the crystal 'Lil gave him. This is an unfortunate duty he must see through now, and it should not wait. Murnian and Biel turn to the party, apparently intending to accompany them back to the rock pile. At her gesture, Caelwyn accepts the vessels and the staff that Murnian had gathered. They walk slowly, while Sol and 'Lil discuss what they might learn about boats and boat-building from the monks, and 'Lil and Grindar provide assurances that they will not countenance the harvesting of druid trees for wood. Bigby realizes he does not want to hunt on what is still a field of battle. People are gathering the bodies as you walk past.

"Maybe the monks are best suited to help," Biel offers on the walk. "From what I recall of the tales, it was mainly the Baron's men who attacked the groves for wood. The Baron isn't around anymore. What were his followers developed into the Harvesters. It took a while to recognize the change, but we have dealings with them at times now."

As you come within sight of the rock pile, Biel and Murnian suddenly stop. "Go on without us. We'll get a place set up for you to spend the night," Murnian says.

As you approach the rocks, the voice that spoke to you earlier returns. "Return the staff. Place the pots where you found them before." As you do so, the voice asks, "Have you made any decisions about the Sargrass?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday April 3rd, 2020 5:47:25 AM
Grindar answers the voice, "I for one have no desire to leave New Rattledam unprotected, or the Sargrass Plains without a band of heroes. so I will stay, as duty calls me to do so. I hope that someday my since of duty is replaced by feelings of love for this place, and a more intimate desire to protect the plains". He than adds, "You promised to share your name with us upon our return, are you prepared to follow through?".

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday April 3rd, 2020 5:52:06 AM
Sol thinks for a moment. Looking to his fellows before speaking.

"I wish to live in harmony, and learn from the Sargrass. I do not claim to speak for my friends here, but I think they feel the same way. I have no doubt they will correct me."

He smiles widely, and self deprecatingly, awaiting his friends responses.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday April 3rd, 2020 9:51:30 AM
Caelwyn stands silent, then says. "I believe you already know what I hope for, that which I have not spoken aloud. But I also wish to protect my friends, and I must fulfill my vow to establish and protect New Rattledam. I believe there must be a way for all to live here, but free of the threat of mutation which the Warper presents us with..."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday April 3rd, 2020 11:54:45 AM
Not one for words, Bigby continues, "If the Sargrass gives to us we will receive and be grateful. We will give back to the Sargrass and respect its way of life." Bigby figured thats all he had to say about that.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday April 3rd, 2020 12:24:07 PM
"Baron? I don't ever remember hearin' about a Baron. Who was that?"

Later, under the rocks, 'Lil ponders the answer.

"I'm gonna be square with you, magic voice. I still miss the creature comforts of home a whole bunch. I miss my cushy bed and feeling like I ain't surrounded by things what wanna eat me.

But...this place has heart, and people helping each other. I ain't been bored since I got here, no ma'am. I intend to see New Rattledam established with my dudes. After that, can't promise nothin', but I can see myself settling in a town I helped build. That seems satisfying."

DM Steve -- Among the rocks
Friday April 3rd, 2020 10:49:22 PM
You all sense that the voice is somewhat disappointed with your answers as she speaks again.

Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {I had hoped you would already be able to love this place.}

Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {Little one, life is not meant to be watched passively. It is meant to be lived.}

Caelwyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {You should not hide your hopes, for that is close to denying them.}

Bigby: Highlight to display spoiler: {The Beastfolk may be the greatest thing the Sargrass has given to date, and you have not yet explained that to your fellows?}

’Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {Worthy aspirations. But there is a fine line between comfort and complacency that you should not toe.}

I have watched these lands a very long time. The grass has been around since the world was young. The druids will tell you that long ago, this was a forest, and it was. The grasslands were smaller, and fairly contained. But it would be a mistake to consider the grasses an invader as some do. There have been many changes in the Wold. In an earlier age, a small shift in the winds favored the development of a desert in this part of the Wold. And life did what it naturally does.

The voice continues, explaining the history of this area, talking about the grass first adapting to the desert and expanding into new territory so slowly at first that it was not noticed. Telling how a desert people were the first to find harmony with the grass and became the Manfri. . . How a rift among the druids in that age -- and Powers you have not heard of -- created two opposing camps and a dominant culture that considered the grass the enemy of the trees. . . How the grass and the insects came to dominate the region, with the groves scattered like oases in the desert or around its fringes. . . Of the migration of men into the grass, and the development of several different cultures -- the Foundlings, Traders, Monks, Plainswalkers, and Climbers. . . How the Monks and Foundlings built domed villages for protection from the insects. . . Of the Great Migration which rearranged the Southern Continent and grew the Crystal Mountains. It also disrupted the people in the grasslands and led to the swift development of new cultures like the Tall Men and Raiders. . . How Marteus created a personna as the Shadow King, whose most devoted follower, the Baron, gathered a force of men and terrorized the other cultures. Not that the other cultures didn’t struggle with each other. (Even now the druids deny what some of their members did to the Manfri, arguing that those members were not really druids.). . . That it was discovered that the grasses survive the desert conditions because the Woldsblood close to the surface in the region mutated them, which is also what causes trees that are planted in much of the area to become twisted and stunted. And when this was discovered, the “false” druids tried to harness the Woldsblood. . .Of the Sargrass Child and the birth of the Power Sargrass. . . How because of the Woldsblood the gods moved the Sargrass from the Southern Continent entirely. . . Of the Long Wait, which drove many of the peoples of the Sargrass to despair and twisted the thinking of the Sargrass Power. . . How the Sargrass Power mutated the Bloodgrass and threatened the Wold with it. . . Of the battles to contain the Bloodgrass and which ended up dividing the power into the Weaver-Sar, Walker-Sar, and Warper-Sar. . .

Underneath the history lesson, you have a sense that the voice telling you this genuinely cares for the grass. And the forest. And the Druids, Monks, Plainswalkers, Raiders, Beastfolk -- even when she was sometimes disappointed with them.

My closest children have not, for the most part, adapted well to the grass. They will need both protection and wisdom in the coming times. But now, it is time for you to attend the ceremony.

You find yourselves exiting the rock pile, unsure of when you started walking or how long the conversation took. It is, however, earlier in the afternoon than it was when you returned the implements to their shrine. You feel rested and reinvigorated -- so much so that Sol’s wounds have healed -- as if you had both just awoken from a night’s rest and eaten a good meal…

Biel walks towards you from the grove, apparently warned you would be coming. "How was Maab?" he asks, conversationally.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday April 5th, 2020 10:45:15 PM
Caelwyn stops and looks in Biel, astonished. "Maab? As in...THE Maab?" He almost seems convinced Biel is about to tell them he was joking.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Monday April 6th, 2020 1:14:31 PM
Grindar is shocked that he was talking to the one and only Maab. He isn’t sure as to what to think of her words, but he tries to commit them to memory, for the future.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday April 6th, 2020 4:02:29 PM
"who's Maab? btw something about beastfolk are beautiful." Bigby goes back to listening.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday April 6th, 2020 4:05:56 PM
Sol frowns as he looks over his now renewed body, marvelling out how he's healed. At the mention of Maab Sol looks up.

"Maab? You are joking right?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Monday April 6th, 2020 5:19:53 PM
"Matronly," is the first word to come to 'Lil's mind. "She's the Queen of the Fey, but she ought to be called the Mother of the Fey. She seems super worried about all of ya."

'Lil doesn't take Maab's disappointment personally. She already had a patron, and decidin' to live somewhere other than the Sargrass once her term was up was her own business. Not that she's decided she'll do that. She was serious when she said the place was growin' on her. Heh...puns.

"Hey Biel, someone said something about me and a moot since I was the first to declare Genyielt dead. Is that a real thing? If I'm supposed ta do something, I want to be sure I honor him."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday April 6th, 2020 10:26:09 PM
Caelwyn waits to hear how Biel will respond. He doesn't know too much about Maab, but is curious to learn more.

DM Steve -- Among the rocks
Monday April 6th, 2020 11:24:08 PM
It's hard to tell if Caelwyn and Sol are more surprised at hearing they were talking with Maab or if Biel is more surprised to hear Bigby ask who Maab is. It throws him off stride for a moment, before he changes the subject. While Grindar ponders what he heard, Biel takes up 'Lil's question first. (The only answer Bigby gets is 'Lil's comment to Biel -- "She's the Queen of the Fey, but she ought to be called the Mother of the Fey. She seems super worried about all of ya.")

"Well, 'Lil, Murnian said you were to to start the moot. I'll explain the duties to you in a bit. First, let me show you where you're staying. You'll want to get ready for the evening's ceremony."

As you walk to the camp, you notice the bodies have been moved. Most of the mutated creatures have been piled in one area. The fallen druids and fey have been carefully laid out in another. Attending the latter, individually or in small groups, are no doubt family and friends saying their goodbyes. You do not see Genyielt, or any fallen trees.

As you walk, Biel mentions that Maab's conversations have been known to take considerable time. Yours was most of a day, probably not longer because she didn't want to keep you from the moot. Biel has spoken with her, and of course Murnian and Virgil have. If you feel a need to talk about what you heard, talk among yourselves or talk to Virgil in coming days.

Biel brings you to an area of the grove that is away from the main path and somewhat secluded. He points one direction and explains where to find water, and pulls 'Lil aside for a moment.

'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {Biel explains that Lil's role in the ceremony is to open it by calling for silence and making an announcement that Genyielt has died. After the announcement, she should request Virgil speak. He is likely to be to grief-striken to do so, in which case she should request Murnian do so in Virgil's place. Biel will position her prior to the ceremony, and let her know when to begin.}

After returning with 'Lil, Biel tells everyone, "I will return in an hour or so, when it's time to go. Make yourselves ready according to your traditions."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 5:06:42 PM
'Lil's a priest of the god of bravery. She should know how to say stuff at funerals of people, and trees, that died bravely. Truth is though, she's a ton better at the more physical bits'a her job.

She understands the basics enough, though. She's sure she'll manage. "So, we all ready for this?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 5:31:32 PM
Grindar asks Sol if he could use his magic to give him an instant bath, and clean his clothes, as after all the running and fighting, he probably could use it. After Sol’s fresher upper, he has a seat and waits tell they are summoned.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 5:53:15 PM
"Well I'm worried for us too. Did you know I was once swallowed by a frog? We are learning our ways around here. Maybe we need more of Maab's help." Bigby moves on with the rest.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday April 7th, 2020 11:35:35 PM
Caelwyn cleans himself up, then spends time meditating and praying to Domi alone. He wants his spirit to be prepared for the ceremony.

DM Steve -- We all ready for this?
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 12:08:21 AM
'Lil reflects on things she might say, confident that she can handle this role. Grindar and Caelwyn clean up as well as they quickly can with Sol's help. Bigby is still reeling from the conversation with Maab, and Caelwyn is preparing himself spiritually, when Biel returns.

"Are you ready?" Biel leads the group out towards the cleared end of the battlefield, where other people and fey are gathering. The trees have moved throughout the area as well, in lines that radiate away from one central area, smaller trees closer in. There are a number of branches in the area.

Biel leads you directly to the center area, after which you stand around for a while. Biel has brought you ahead of the main crowd, which continues to filter in. It's not long before the crowd has grown to a size you're glad you don't need to squeeze through. You recognize other people nearby from your discussions the morning after the battle, but the crowd that has gathered includes more than were here for the battle. Murnian and the other druids nearby engage you in small talk while you wait, giving you the chance to ask any questions you have about the ceremony or the battle.

Suddenly the crowd parts and lets Virgil through, followed by a few others. After Virgil slowly walks to the center, Biel nods to 'Lil. At the far end of the crowd, more trees gather, forming a large ring around the ceremony.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 2:47:19 AM
Sol watches in awe, completely enamoured with the process. He tries to hide his excitement at seeing something new but doesn't do so well at it. After a few moments however he manages to compose himself.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 5:34:42 AM
Grindar isn't normally one to be impressed by pomp and circumstance, but truly impressed by this ceremony. He wiggles in his seat in anticipation. For reasons he can't even explain to himself, he is finding this to be fascinating.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 1:51:27 PM
"so what happens in this ceremony?" After that Bigby waits and observes.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 4:57:14 PM
'Lil takes a deep breath.

"New friends, if I could have your attention please." She tries hard to use proper grammar for once, putting aside her typical affect. "It's with a heavy heart that I must report Genyielt has died, fallen protecting many, including myself and my du..companions. My companions. She blushs, just a bit.

"Virgil, I understand you two shared the strongest bond. Would you care to speak for the fallen?"

She hoped she wasn't inadvertently offensive or nothin'. Was it too on the nose to refer to a dead tree as "fallen"? Oh geez, that did sound bad, didn't it? She hopes no one notices as she waits for Virgil's response.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday April 8th, 2020 10:38:51 PM
Caelwyn smiles to himself. Poor Lil - she would much rather smash some heads for Domi than deal with this, that is plain to him. But she does a fine job, and he is proud of her. He waits to hear what Virgil will say next.

DM Steve -- We all ready for this? d20=12 ;
Thursday April 9th, 2020 12:46:03 AM
Before the ceremony begins, the druids tell Bigby that this will be a celebration of the life of Genyielt,

As 'Lil speaks, an expectant crowd falls silent. She handles herself well enough, by their reactions.

When he is called upon, Virgil looks at 'Lil, and the crowd. He stands quietly for a few moments before Murnian moves his way. He waves her off, saying, in a shaking voice, "No. I will not speak for the fallen. I believe I did that well enough yesterday. No friends. . . Let us ALL speak for the fallen."

Murnian moves to Virgil's side anyway, as he breaks down crying. Around the crowd, the trees lower their branches, and you can see they had placed themselves in such a way that the crowd are all able to reach a branch. The druid trees lower their branches for all creatures to reach, and intertwine with each other. Only those in the center must move to find a branch, which the druids around the party quickly do.

Those who turn to a tree: Highlight to display spoiler: {Through the network connecting the entire crowd, the trees communicate in much the way you experienced with Vanja back in Biel's grove. It is as if you are watching memories of Genyielt, but there are too many to concentrate on only one. Some themes nevertheless come through strongly. Genyielt founded this grove. He had many adventures with Virgil. He had been bonded to other druids before Virgil, although those memories are all dim. An argument with Eberyon -- Genyielt’s ability to successfully disagree with the immortal power while never showing the least disrespect is especially remembered. Everyone sees the recent fight from several angles. Underlying everything is a feeling of awe, reverence, and loss. And although the memories center on Genyielt, others are remembered too.}

After a long time, people begin to break away from the trees. As the druids break away, they take the branches that were in the middle of the ceremony, and place them in a pile. Someone says a quick incantation, and the branches catch fire. Only after the fire has died out does the crowd disperse.

Biel leads you back to your camp in the dark, thanking 'Lil for her role in the ceremony.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday April 9th, 2020 10:28:31 AM
Grindar welcomes the embrace of the Trees, and is blown away by the history of this majestic being. After the ceremony, Grindar walks back to camp in silence, as though he was deep in thought. When he’s alone with his friends he says, “We have some mighty big shoes to fill, if we wish this ship, we intend to build, to live up to the legacy of its source”.

Subbing for Lil (Jeremy)
Thursday April 9th, 2020 6:06:11 PM
Lil willingly turns to trees, and is amazed at the life Genyielt lived. She smiles when Biel thanks her, and she is glad that she was able to do right by the old Ent. She is left speechless when she fully realizes the gift they have been given, and nods her head in agreement with Grindar’s words.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday April 9th, 2020 7:49:10 PM
Bigby enjoys the ceremony. To Genyielt Bigby cheers on the way back.

DM Steve -- We all ready for this?
Friday April 10th, 2020 12:16:28 AM
When they are alone with each other, the group talks about what they learned about Genyielt. Not until they speak do they realize that the last words they actually heard voiced were Virgil's. They set camp in the spot Biel had showed them, and fall into a restless sleep.

The next morning, after they wake late and tired, Biel greets the party. "Virgil would like to talk to you. After breakfast, please meet him by the rock pile."

At the rock pile, Virgil is sitting quietly. He smiles broadly as the group arrives, in surprisingly good spirits. "Good morning! I've been thinking about what comes next. I think I need your thoughts on the matter. I mean, yes, we will make a boat from Genyielt's trunk -- but I must admit that is not something I know how to do. What do you suggest?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday April 10th, 2020 3:44:32 AM
Sol shakes his head.

"I am not certain either... I mean I am sure I could figure it out... but perhaps if we return from whence we came we can get more information?"

Grindar, son of Grindar (Jeremy)
Friday April 10th, 2020 1:15:03 PM
“Well”, Grindar says, “I’m no lumberjack, nor am I a shipwright, but the Crystal Mountain Monks said they would be able to help. I have no desire to lead them here, not that I don’t trust them, but better safe them sorry, so I was thinking, since the wood will “float” on the grasses, what if we tie a rope to the trunk and just tow it behind us. Once it’s floating on the grasses, it should move pretty easily”.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday April 10th, 2020 2:54:51 PM
"That lady who was with the monks agreed to show us how to build a boat, but she had a price. She's all business, and discussin' terms with her will probably be hard for ya as she won't really care that the wood she's after was your friend. Still probably our best place to start."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday April 10th, 2020 4:25:28 PM
"think she wanted wood for herself. We used to have a way to speak with the barron who probably knows how to make this, but we lost that when our friend left for another adventure."

DM Steve -- What to do?
Saturday April 11th, 2020 12:56:39 AM
Virgil zeroes in on Bigby's comment. "The Baron? I haven't heard of him since the start of the Long Wait. Now, he would want the wood for himself."

After a long pause, Virgil continues, "But we're not talking about the same man, are we? We're going to be working together quite a bit on this project. You learned a bit about me last night, reflected in Genyielt's story. What about you? Where are you from, and how did you come to be here?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Saturday April 11th, 2020 3:50:20 PM
"mhm, I see." Bigby stops talking and wonders if he has said too much. it's like people find fault in honesty. Will have to think about that more. Bigby let's the humans do the talking for now.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday April 12th, 2020 3:09:40 PM
Given that the druid has entrusted them with turning his best friend's body into a boat, Caelwyn believes they owe Virgil every scrap of the truth. "We were originally hired by Duke Abalard Rowan, who wanted us to help found a new settlement here in the Sargrass Plains. He clearly seems intent on spreading his own influence, but I certainly saw no harm in taking the job, or my oath to Domi would have prevented me from doing so."

"I am a servant of Domi, a newcomer to the Southern Continent, honestly. My first and foremost goal, regardless of where I may go, is to do the will of Domi - to live honorably and honestly, to defend the weak, and to protect the innocent from harm. That is who I strive to be, anyway."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Monday April 13th, 2020 12:02:21 PM
'Lil nudges Caelwyn with her elbow. "Same here," she says, touching the tattoo of Domi's symbol on her chest.

She finds it odd that Virgil didn't comment on the boat lady who wanted druidwood.

Grindar, son of Grindar (Jeremy)
Monday April 13th, 2020 1:07:21 PM
“Unlike my friends, I wasn’t hired by anyone to come here, in fact I wasn’t even on the ship that brought them here, or any ship for that matter”, Grindar begins to answer, “I came here sheerly out of a desire to discover new things and places, and maybe make a name for myself. I was teleported here by a Wizard friend of my father., and my biggest desire is to be known as a hero of justice, which is why I serve Pantheon”.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday April 13th, 2020 4:42:30 PM
Sol smiles.

"I was hired to come here with the others." He indicates them. "I am here to discover as much as a I can, so one day I can return home and use my magic to help."

He smiles wistfully.

DM Steve -- What to do?
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 12:36:02 AM
Virgil listens as Caelwyn, 'Lil, Grindar, and Sol tell their stories, and says that he would like to hear more about them and Bigby. who have clearly become fast friends. But he does not push to hear more right now.

"I seem to have offended you, little one," he says to Bigby. "There used to be a man in these parts who called himself the Baron. His men caused a lot of suffering to just about everyone else, and we don't usually hear titles out here in the grass. But like I said, I should have known you were not talking about him."

"No," Virgil continues, "I am not worried about how to get Genyielt's remains to wherever we are going. We already have volunteers to help with that. I am worried about picking the right spot to go. You have suggested several places -- the monk community, Rattledam, Duke Rowan's domain. I think this is something we need to build in the Sar, not build somewhere else and bring back to the Sar. I think we need to use it to bring communities together. And I need to know your minds on the matter, because I expect you will be helping to make decisions about what we build. So, let's circle back to the question I let myself be diverted from -- where do we go from here?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 5:49:14 AM
Grindar thinks for a bit, then answers, "Ideally I would like to get back to Rattledam, the longer we're away, the more I worry for their well being. Though I'm not sure anyone in Rattledam would know how to build a ship, and we did promise to return to the Crystal Mountains, and being people of our word is important as well, also they claim they have the ability to help, so I would say we should head to the monk community".

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 12:49:25 PM
"We probably should head back to the mountains," 'Lil muses. "Even if that lady's price is too high, we can always say no."

She's not really looking forward to heading back there. The monks were kinda jerks to each other and couldn't really agree on anything. Grindar's right though. Those folks did help'em get this far and it'd be wrong not to return like we said we would.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 1:06:45 PM
"no not offended. just confused. but quickly learning." Bigby decides to let the others speak about these matters.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 6:49:58 PM
Sol considers the question for a moment, it was an important one, no doubt. Where to take Genyielt... the monks obviously pointed them in the right direction, and they promised they'd go back, but taking it to Rattledam would probably do more to help unite the Sargrass. He mulls it over for a few moments before speaking.

"I think going back to the monks in the first instance is the right decision. I do not think we have to agree to whatever they say, but we do have to explain ourselves to them at the very least. Then I would suggest moving on to Rattledam. Perhaps we can convince the monks to help us AT Rattledam?"

At this he looks to Lil as she seems to have a way with words and convincing people he was quickly coming to be thankful for and rely on.

sub Caelwyn
Tuesday April 14th, 2020 9:51:22 PM
Caelwyn hears the words of the party and nods, agreeing with their logic. "it sounds like to the mountains first. Of course we care and miss for our friends in Rattledam, but we did come out here for the druid wood, and we do need to learn how to build it."

DM Steve -- What to do?
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 12:44:58 AM
"Well," Virgil says, "with four of you saying to go to the monks in the mountains first, that's where we'll go. And I think we should leave soon. I'm tied to this place, and if I take longer it'll just be harder. If you have any farewells to say, or any business with the grove, you've got until tomorrow morning for that. I'm not going to drag you away at first light -- don't think I'll be able to pull away thar early myself. But meet me back here tomorrow after you've broken your fast and packed."

Virgil lapses into silence. Suddenly he seems a little older and more frail, or maybe he's just worn out and for the moment no longer feels the need to stay in control. After several minutes, he starts gently snoring.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 6:03:38 AM
Gindar take the time wander about saying farewell to everyone all the while asking if anyone might have suit of hide armor, preferably masterwork quality, but he'll take what he can get, that he might buy from them, as his steel breastplate is blocking his connection with nature. Almost jokingly, he asks, "Oh, if you have a spare steelgrass breastplate, I suppose I would take that instead". After making his rounds saying farewell, and asking for a new set of armor, he heads out to be by himself for a while. He finds a peaceful place, and begins to pray to Pantheon.

"Lord Pantheon, you know my desire, and have seen my actions, and you know that deep down my greatest desire is to be known as a hero of justice, but I feel something missing in my life. I see Bigby with Wolfgang, and long for a similar relationship with an animal friend, If it is a just desire, then I ask that you lead me in the right path to obtain such a friend"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 11:50:52 AM
'Lil wonders if these druids want'er goodbyes. They lost a friend, and are about to lose another one who's gonna desecrate the body.

That's not what she thinks, mind ya, just what she's worried about. She hears Grindar ask about steelgrass breastplates. That's not a bad idea. She waits to see if'e can get him one. She thinks the stuff would work really well with her fightin' style.

sub Caelwyn d20+10=25 ;
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 2:46:16 PM
one day will have to find the wla to pay my dues bigby thinks. Other than that, Bigby does some hunting with Wolfgang. survival 25.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday April 15th, 2020 2:46:43 PM
ooc oops forgot to change the title

DM Steve -- What to do?
Thursday April 16th, 2020 12:32:29 AM
Grindar's search for hide armor is successful; his inquiries about steelgrass are not. He wanders off to pray.

'Lil watches Grindar's attempts to find steelgrass, although she probably could have predicted the outcome.

Bigby and Wolfgang have a successful hunt that morning.

Caelwyn and Sol disappear for a while -- probably praying and watching the druids, respectively.

Grindar -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Grindar is able to purchase masterwork hide armor for 165 gp if he has it.
Further, while he is praying he feels that this is the right approach to take. How long is he willing to continue praying for an animal companion? }

With the morning gone, is there anything else you would like to do at the grove?

Wisdom check DC 10 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The group did pick up a few items on their way here from the monks.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+2=16 ;
Thursday April 16th, 2020 5:57:26 AM
Wisdom check 16
Grindar, in the back of his mind remembers that they have picked up some things from the monk's But his player can't seem to remember what they are.

Grindar gladly pays the 165 for the masterwork hide armor, and when he realizes that he is getting somewhere with his prayer, he will continue to pray through the night, or as long as it takes. He has never felt anything resembling a response before, as he prayed, and the fact that he realizes he is connecting with the god he serves, drives him on.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Thursday April 16th, 2020 6:05:15 AM
Changed header due to armor change

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20=11 ;
Thursday April 16th, 2020 1:14:19 PM
Caelwyn finishes his prayers and gathers his gear, preparing to depart. He gathers any odds and ends the party may have left behind. He also takes time to appreciate the beauty of the grove and the amazing creatures that live there. He has loved seeing trees again - that's one thing he has greatly missed during his time on the Sargrass Plains.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday April 16th, 2020 1:52:10 PM
Bigby becomes one with the earth and meditates for his druidish spells.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+3=14 ;
Thursday April 16th, 2020 2:24:17 PM
'Lil also remembers. "There was that stone what pointed to druid wood, yea? I tried to give it back to the druids since it could be used by bad folk, but I don't remember if they took it. That was probably a bit hasty'a me, if I'm being honest."

She checks. Did the druids take it?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+2=18 ;
Thursday April 16th, 2020 6:53:20 PM
Sol awakens, feeling refreshed and ready to get going, he makes a few more notes in his journal, noting the hospitality and friendliness of these druids, and how they are doing something very kind.

He also writes notes about what he has experienced, and what he hopes it will lead to, i.e. a better understanding of the Sargrass.

DM Steve -- What to do?
Friday April 17th, 2020 12:48:11 AM
'Lil, Caelwyn, Bigby, & Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {'Lil remembers the compass, and realizes she gave it to Virgil.

She also remembers that Bigby had found an amulet on the owlbear. Bigby realizes that he still has it. After checking through everything the party collected on the journey from the stone temple to the grove, it comes to two amulets, a cloak, a handful of gems, and the wings from a giant beetle. Sol is able to determine that both amulets and the cloak are all magic. There were also a few gifts from fey creatures, but those seem to have disappeared or perhaps turned into twigs.

OoC: Those wings were big, and I'm not altogether sure you decided to carry them. }

Grindar does not return before nightfall, after going off to pray by himself.

Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {Grindar continues to pray well after dark, losing track of the time. In the darkness, he finds that he is joined by another, comforting presence. As the dawn arrives, he sees that in his vigil he was joined by a white lion.}

The sunrise promises a relatively cool, clear day.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29
Friday April 17th, 2020 5:53:47 AM
Grindar is overjoyed at the appearance of the white lion. he gives the beautiful cat a hug and a kiss on it's nose, and says to him,"I shall call you Llew, and we shall walk and fight side by side as friends!" a very tired Grindar, along with his new friend, head back to camp. He is feeling a bit fatigued, but when he reaches over to stroke the mane of Llew, he assures himself that it was more then worth it. Back at camp, Grindar introduces his friends to Llew, who immediately walks over to Wolfgang and begins nudging the wolf in an attempt to get him to play.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday April 17th, 2020 10:37:12 AM
Caelwyn smiles, greeting their new companion. He is happy for Grindar. He prepares to move out, thanking Domi for their successes and wondering about what will happen once they reach the monks. He is not particularly excited about seeing those monks again, but that seems to be the best place to go.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday April 17th, 2020 12:37:31 PM
'Lil's ok with Virgil keeping the compass. If the monks can be trusted with it, she's sure Virgil will return it. She can't make heads nor tails of the rest of the stuff. She goes to find Sol, hoping he can shed some light on what they are.

*The wings were large enough to be shields, right?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday April 17th, 2020 2:33:16 PM
"can anyone figure out what this amulet does?" Bigby shows the group. Wolfgang turns his head towards Llew. Wolfgang's tongue hangs out in approval and he jumps over to Llew. Bigby takes note and chuckles that Wolfgang's found another friend. "Good looking white lion there Grindar. One more to add to the hunting party?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+12=20 ; d20+12=15 ; d20+12=15 ;
Friday April 17th, 2020 6:42:10 PM
Sol looks at the amulets and cloak.

"I will have a look at them, see what I can figure out." ((Amulet 1 Knowledge Arcana - 20, Amulet 2 - 15, cloak - 15))

He looks over them, however he doesn't cast any magic to figure out what they are, just trusts his not inconsiderable knowledge.

DM Steve -- What to do?
Saturday April 18th, 2020 1:00:33 AM
Grindar returns from his vigil with a Llew, to congratulations from Caelwyn and an immediate welcome from Bigby and Wolfgang. Bigby, 'Lil, and Sol examine the items the party has found. Everyone works packing in preparation for the trip later in the morning.

Sol examines the magic items carefully, but is not able to confirm their functions without using magic. One amulet has a medallion made of polished horn, the other one's pendant is a green gem. The cloak is a neutral gray. Sol says that harder parts of animal -- bones, scales, horn -- are often used for protection, such as an amulet of natural armor.

(The wings were about the size of tower shields.)

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday April 19th, 2020 9:43:31 PM
Caelwyn examines the wings. "Hmmmm...I wonder what it would take to really turn this into a shield...I could make use of it."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday April 20th, 2020 5:54:10 AM
Grindar suggest that Sol casts detect magic on the Items, and attempt to identify them that way. As Sol is trying to figure out what the items are, he packs his things for the the road. He then play wrestles with Llew until it's time to go.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday April 20th, 2020 6:01:29 AM
fixed link to Llew

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday April 20th, 2020 12:27:21 PM
Bigby packs up and gets ready as well. "guess its that time again." Bigby scratches Wolfgangs ear. He's happy Grindars got a friend as well. the more the merrier Bigby thought.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday April 20th, 2020 3:03:24 PM
Sol nods looking over the objects.

"I will prepare my Detect Magic tomorrow to double check these magical objects and find out exactly what they do. Until then, we should get underway."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Monday April 20th, 2020 3:15:22 PM
'Lil agrees. "Ain't got much use for a shield myself, specially one that big. We can figure all that out later. Let's get movin'"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday April 20th, 2020 5:00:46 PM
"perhaps we can find a hill and slide on the sheild!" Bigby wonders if he said that outloud. "ahem, I mean like 'Lil said, we don't have much use for something that big." He then looks away.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday April 20th, 2020 8:26:58 PM
Caelwyn agrees. He slings the wing over his back, and prepares to move out."

DM Steve -- Setting out.
Tuesday April 21st, 2020 1:03:20 AM
The party packs and plans to examine their collected finds again the next morning. Virgil wasn't very specific as to a time, but it's about 24 hours since they last saw him when the group heads to the clearing near the rock pile where Virgil said he would meet them.

Only this morning, the clearing is not so clear. Genyielt's body, stripped of its foilage and smaller branches, lies there, nearly seventy feet in length. Flanking him are six trees, and a dozen or more of the fairy diddles are on his trunk. Another tree is off the the side, near a bundle of large branches that have been tied together. Around the trees are a score of druids, talking quietly with each other. The occassional word reaches the party's ears -- such as "haste" or "unseemly." Enough to give the impression that the druids are not happy. Overhead, a couple of eagles circle.

"Where is he already?" asks one of the druids. "Treating Genyielt like this. It just isn't right."

"You know he has his reasons. I'm sure he's trying to give Murnian all the advice he can, and will blame her for his being late," another answers.

Biel, standing off a bit from the others, approaches and says good morning. Quietly he adds, "Pay these folk no attention. I think Genyielt would have wanted this. Look at the trees -- they're not agitated." And Biel can probably tell an agitated tree from one that isn't.

No more than a half hour of uncomfortable conversations later, Virgil appears. He is walking with Murnian and followed by a crowd of well-wishers. When he sees everyone he smiles and greets you all warmly. Watching the eagles, he says to Murnian, "She thought these heroes are the companions I'll need." And Murnian answers, "The council wanted you to have someone from the grove. Be glad they let me choose Thorondir."

If Virgil hoped to leave quickly, the crowd wouldn't let him. Everyone wanted to say their well-wishes, and it was noon before Virgil was given more than breathing space. Not that he seemed to mind. But at last, the time came. "I guess it's time for us to go. Murnian, I know the grove's in capable hands. . . But you know you can always talk to me."

With that, the six trees lift Genyielt's body, and the one the branches. Virgil looks at you and asks, "Ready?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday April 21st, 2020 5:19:51 AM
Grindar take Biel's words to heart, but when he overhears Vigil and Murnian's conversation, he is lost. He's not sure who Virgil means by "she" and who the blazes is Thorondir, or the council for that matter? However he is ready to go when Virgil is finally ready to depart, and after they have traveled outside of hearing distance, Grindar asks, "Virgil, I don't mean to pry, and I know I shouldn't have been listening in on your conversation, but to whom were you referring to as "she" and who is Thorondir?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday April 21st, 2020 10:21:00 AM
'Lil ponders Biel's words. There's somethin' reassuring about knowing how much good Genyielt can do even after his death. Her body won't be nearly as useful as his without'er soul in it, but she'd take comfort in death if she knew she'd keep making the world a better place after she was gone.

She wonders if Genyielt will float on the grasses as is. Will them trees just be able to push him along instead of carrying him all the way?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday April 21st, 2020 4:04:15 PM
Bigby takes it all in. He's pretty excited to see the wood float.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday April 21st, 2020 6:48:04 PM
Sol nods sombrely, as he doesn't want to distract from the rather emotional moment. He doesn't say anything, but is clearly a little disturbed at the whispering, as if he's not sure whether to worry about it or not, but it clearly sets him on edge.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- Eagle Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday April 21st, 2020 7:04:22 PM
Two eagles circle ever lower and fly down and perch on Genyielt. One of the eagles touches its forehead to the trunk, and looks at Virgil. It spreads its wings and bows its head. It then starts to screech and whistle to Virgil.
If you understand eagle: Highlight to display spoiler: {Virgil, I am honored to escort you and Genyielt. I miss the days of roosting in the mighty branches. I will keep guard from on high as we set out. Call to me, and I will come quickly and walk with you if you wish.}
The eagles with a loud screech take to the air and begin circling again.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Eagle Companion: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday April 21st, 2020 7:05:28 PM
fixing header

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday April 21st, 2020 8:49:17 PM
Caelwyn looks at the eagles, more curious than surprised. At this point, not much will surprise him. He speaks politely if anyone approaches him, and otherwise watches quietly the proceedings. He understands the druids' concern - he isn't entirely comfortable with it himself, the idea of turning Genyielt into a ship... But if the trees, and Virgil especially, believe it to be right, he he willing to let this happen.

DM Steve -- Setting out.
Tuesday April 21st, 2020 10:40:39 PM
The sound starts so low this time that the folks around feel it before they hear it, as the bipedal squirrels start casting from Genyielt's branches.

As the slowly shifting, ethereal sound builds, Virgil takes the opportunity to answer Grindar's questions. "She is Maab, of course. And Thorondir. . . Don't worry, he'll make his own introductions when he's ready."

The air begins to shimmer at the edge of the clearing. But this time as the swirling tube appears, it seems to have little depth to it, and the outer edge is more defined than that of the fey corridor that brought the party here -- darker and denser seeming. The tunnel that forms in the air is fully ninety feet in diameter; opaque, although the color eludes you; and looks about a quarter of a mile long on the inside, even though it has no depth on the outside. This time the shifting harmonics of the humming fairy diddles seem mournful, somehow.

The trees carrying Genyielt enter the tunnel, followed by the rest of the travellers. Virgil pauses before he enters for one last, quick farewell.

Travel this time is not like the last fey corridor. The party has to push with great effort to make headway, making the trip take longer than the apparent distance should take. Still, it is early afternoon when the troop reaches the other end and steps out into a field at the edge of the monk village at Stone Temple.

A shout goes up as the villagers notice a thicket where there was none before. It sounds as if some are calling the guard.

Virgil goes about calmly thanking each of the trees by name as they place their burden down.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 6:51:58 AM
Grindar shakes his head to try to get the cobwebs out and to make sure he isn’t seeing thing as they arrive at the Monk’s home. ”I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to that whole fey corridor travel thing!”, Grindar says to no one in particular then remembering that this was Llew’s first time, he looks his white maned friend in the eyes and asks, ”Are you OK buddy?” Llew answers by giving him a sand paper rough cat kiss, as Grindar gives the marvelous cat a bear hug. When he hears the call for the guards, Grindar steps forward and says, ”Don’t worry, It’s just us!”

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 9:45:36 AM
'Lil remembers how much work it was gettin' from this place to their final destination. She's super glad the walk was shorter this time, even if it did feel like they was walkin' uphill. There's a joke in there 'bout walking up hill both ways like her gramps used to say. She chuckles, missing the old fart. She wondered what ma was up to now that she wasn't around to pick up. Hopefully she'd spent enough time sober to pay rent and clean the kitchen.

She shakes her head, clearing the thoughts and focusing on the matter at hand. She stands, arms folded across her chest, as she waits for someone to let'em in. She wonders how upset they're gonna be when they find out she gave that compass to Virgil. The druids had every right to hold onto something that can be used to track down and kill their trees, and she didn't feel guilty 'bout giving it to Virgil. She just hoped they'd still help.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Eagle Companion: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 10:38:22 AM
As the shimmering tube starts to close, two eagles fly into it as Virgil steps in.

Stepping out of the tunnel with the group is an elf with an eagle on his shoulder.

"I'm Thorondir, the council has asked me to come and watch over Genyielt's final journey."
He then starts to talk to the wolf and lion, seeming more interested in how they are doing than the people they accompany.
If you can understand the language of the animals: Highlight to display spoiler: {Thorondir casts speak with animals and talks to each in their own language: "I am Thorondir, a druid from the grove. How are you? Do you come as you wish, or are you compelled by a master? If ever you are in need you can come to me. I have seen too many times people mistakenly believe they are the master."}

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 12:10:44 PM
Wolfgang responds to Thorondir Highlight to display spoiler: {These guys aren't bad. I've fought beside them for some time and I've only seen good things amongst these creatures. As for Bigby, him and I are bonded. He's no more my master than I am his. But we are one pack. I think the humans call it brothers. They call him a beastfolk.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 1:16:41 PM
Llew responds to Thorondir, ”I’m new to this pride, but they seem pretty cool so far. The half-orc is my friend, and I’m willing to lay down my life for him, and I know he feels the same way, we have a bond like that”.

In Druidic, Grindar addresses the new comer, ”Welcome to our pack/pride, I appreciate the fact that your an animal lover, but it is kinda rude to ignore us two leggers.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 6:07:57 PM
Sol simply looks confused and exhausted as he emerges from the Fey Corridor. The exhaustion comes from the apparent exercise that his frail body is not used to, and the confusion at the newcomer talking in a language he really doesn't understand. He takes a deep breath and sits down to get a rest.

"The was rather difficult... for a short period it would have been fine, but that was long old slog..."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 8:20:37 PM
Caelwyn looks Thorondir up and down, nodding in response to his greeting. "Welcome. We appreciate whatever help you can provide."

He turns briefly to Virgil. "We will do our best to communicate to the monks and all others what an important sacrifice this is for you. I promise that I will do all in my power to ensure that Genyielt's body is treated with respect. But I cannot guarantee that they will be able to fully understand, or see anything other than the trunk of a tree."

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 9:46:09 PM
Attius found it difficult to focus around the young woman, so he looked at the corner of the room. He wished he had managed to come up with an excuse to be elsewhere as quickly as Flitch had. He could tell the impact she would have on the community. . . "I'm sorry, miss. We don't know where the realm of the beastfolk is -- so we can't return you there. However, the caravan on the eastern edge of town plans to leave in about a week. Perhaps if you travelled with them, you could find what you're looking for." Attius wasn't even sure that there was a kingdom of the beastfolk. Certainly he'd never heard of one. Although until recently he hadn't heard of beastfolk at all, and yet here they were.

Then the call came for the guard to assemble. Attius grumbled to himself as he hurried out of the office. The young lady followed him, but he didn't look back and see that. And really, knowing that she was going to "help" again wouldn't have made him happier.

Attius headed south, where the commotion was, catching up with the members of the watch who were preparing to repel any invaders. Before he reached the edge of town, he could see there were trees in the field they'd just cleared. Half a dozen trees, accompanying half a dozen people. A couple of dangerous animals. Druids had come, clearly. One was lying on the ground. None appeared threatening.

He'd sent a group of adventurers looking for druids just weeks ago. Maybe this group would have news. Attius left the guard at the edge of the village and started crossing the fields.

=====

Aside from Grindar shouting a greeting when he hears cries of alarm, the party pretty much ignores the commotion in town. Grindar, Bigby, and Thorondir get to know each other; 'Lil is lost in her thoughts; Sol all but takes a nap; and Caelwyn talks to Virgil about approaching the monks.

For a few minutes, a small force of defenders gathers in the village, until one man leaves it and heads towards the party. When he's about halfway there, he recognizes the party and they see he is one of the village administrators. "Calvin, Grindar, it's good to see you!," he calls. As he gets closer, he adds, "You brought others with you. Does that mean your mission was successful?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday April 23rd, 2020 4:11:03 AM

Poor Akuno Neko. Stomping along behind Attius, the small cat-folk hops up and down constantly, trying to keep her head above the grass. Beastfolk weren't a tall people, and Akuno was not counted as tall among them.

Every time she opened her mouth to protest, however, another bug or weed or other sufferance either flew inside, or smacked it closed. Red faced and overwhelmed, she plops down into the grass and crosses her arms, an angry ball of black and red lace with perky ears and a tail that swished wildly. "Attius!" she shouts, balling her fists. "Hey! Don't just leave me here!" She sniffles loudly, then dabs her eyes with her tail. "Jeez, I'm here to help and you keep trying to ignore me!" Climbing to her feet, she bobs along through the grass until she nearly runs into his back.

Only then does she notice the whole group of new arrivals. Her hair is long and well combed, her furry ears are a light, sandy tan. She is decked from head to toe in frills, silk ribbons, and lots of fine lace. To be honest, she looks more like she belongs at a dance than out here in the Sar.

Eyes full of surprise, she quiets down, and slinks back behind the man. She cups her hands to her mouth and whispers out loud. "Who are they?" Her eyes lock onto the dog person, who seems to be consorting with an even bigger and mangier dog thing. Her tail puffs a little and one eyebrow raises with suspicion. "That one seems disreputable. Need help? I'll take the slobbery one. You take the rest."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday April 23rd, 2020 6:50:35 AM
Grindar smiles at Attius, as he and Akuno arrive “Good to see you my friend!”, The oversized half-orc says with a smile, “Who’s your feisty friend?” “As to the success of our mission, I think it wise we talk in a more private local”, Grindar answers.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday April 23rd, 2020 9:31:39 AM
Do catfolk and dogfolk not get along? The thought hadn't popped into 'Lil's head before, but there it was. Another thought pops into'er head. Did these monks know what druid trees were when they sent her and her dudes to fetch some?

She wonders why good thoughts don't pop in her head, only bad ones. She shakes it off.

"Yea Attius, this is our new friend Virgil. We should really go talk about some stuff." She looks around. "Sorry if we startled everyone!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Eagle Companion: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=7 ;
Thursday April 23rd, 2020 10:34:08 AM
[confused at the new surroundings, Thorondir uses his perception skill = rolls natural 1]

Nodding as the wolf and lion respond to Thorondir, he turns to the others.
"These creatures speak well of you, they say you are good and trustworthy. Pardon my suspicions, but I have seen too much cruelty as of late. Yes, as the orcish one has surmised I am a druid that looks after the natural animals. (he looks at the beastfolk with some confusion and concern) Since you have proven worthy, I will also look after you as well."

As the commotion in town starts to build, Thorondir shrugs his shoulder and the eagle launches into the sky. He flies in quiet circles far above them. Thorondir steps toward Genyielt and puts a hand on the trunk of the once mighty tree.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday April 23rd, 2020 11:39:32 AM
everything rushes Bigby in an almost overwhelming manner. Another beastfolk? He'd only met one other beastfolk before, and the name eluded him. He will have to ask her of her experience with her heritage sometime. Not knowing much of his, maybe he'd learn something from her. And the druid with the eagle seemed alright. ok, time to talk I guess. Bigby looks up to Thorondir and says Welcome, my name is Bigby and this is Wolfgang. Seeing Thorondir walk over to Genyielt, Bigby backs away in respect. Bigby scratches Wolfgangs ear and wonders when the next hunt will happen.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday April 23rd, 2020 8:42:00 PM
Caelwyn winces at Attius' mispronounciation of his name, but lets it slide. "Greetings, Attius! Pardon our sudden appearance."

He glances at Virgil and the trunk of the great tree. "We have much to tell you, but Grindar is right. We should speak in private. And it is of great importance that these remains you see before you, which appear as an immense tree, are treated with respect."

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Friday April 24th, 2020 1:10:49 AM
Attius doesn't miss that three of the party say he needs to talk with them in private. But before he is able to say anything, he registers, "I'll take the slobbery one. You take the rest." "Wait, miss. I know these people." Most of them, anyway. "Miss Neko, may I present Grindar, 'Lil, Bigby, Calvin. . . and the man sleeping there is Sol. They are heroes who helped us out, and know the Sargrass better than most. Heroes, this is Akuno Neko. She has also -- uh -- helped." Attius falters in his introduction.

Virgil steps in quickly. "Attius? I'm Virgil. That's Thorondir. And these are Lisaraelk, Fagales, Quercus, Lithocarpus, Grevillea, Casuarinaceae, and Virentes." It takes a moment to realize he is naming the trees that carried Genyielt. "I hope you don't mind, but they will be staying here a day or two. I will be staying a bit longer. Would you let your folks know that we're no threat, then come back for that talk?"

Attius agrees, and heads back to the village for a few minutes. While he is gone, Virgil says, "Our friends will see that Genyielt is left alone by the village while they're here. I think that this is a private enough spot for our first talk. And what should we do about Miss Neko?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday April 24th, 2020 2:40:31 AM
Sol starts awake, a look of embarrassment washes over his face, and he stands up, his head downcast for a moment as he mumbles.

"I am sorry... the journey was apparently more tiring than I thought..."

He sighs, takes a deep breath, and then stands straight, a smile breaking out across his face.

"However it is good to see a familiar face."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday April 24th, 2020 5:19:14 AM
"Glad to meet you Miss Neko", Grindar says as he gives a slight bow of acknowledgement to the catfolk lass. He then turns to Attius and says, as he points to Genyielt's remains:

"This is the remains of a valiant individual who fought to save many though it cost him his life in the end. He was also Virgil's closest friend and older and wiser than most. Had we known that Druid Trees are of a sentient nature, we would never had taken this mission. To harvest their timber would be nothing short of murder, and so we will not be revealing the location of the Druid's Grove. I am willing to accept that you were also ignorant of the sentient nature of Druid Trees and leave it at that, as I can't imagine you would sanction the murder of such amazing individuals.
That said, Virgil, and some of his brethren believe that Genyielt would want his remains to be put to good use, and so we brought them here, in hopes that your people may be able to help us build a ship we can use to help those in need as well as help new settlers arrive safely to their destination.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+5=14 ;
Friday April 24th, 2020 12:52:57 PM
Aewen flies in slow circles looking down, he is hunting for a Prairie Swallow or something of that size to eat. (perception check 14)

Gentle tapping Genyielt, Thorondir looks up to see how Aewen if faring. It is clear that being around others is a new and not so refreshing change for Thorondir.

Looking to the group, he speaks to them all:
"Please let me apologize. I am not accustomed to being around so many different folks. The trees and the animals I feel more at ease with. The Wold has changed so much since my youth, when people would breed with orcs, halflings and elves. Now it seems the animals have somehow been breed with people as well. I don't understand how cats and dogs can have offspring with people, but I see that it is so. Pardon my astonishment."

Realizing that his words did little in the way of an apology, he finishes with:
"Clearly, I am not good at apologies. I will see though that Genyielt is treated with respect."

Feeling more at ease with the trees and Virgil, Thorondir stays by Genyielt.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday April 24th, 2020 1:11:56 PM
Watching Aewen hunt, Bigby feels a sense of amazement and envy. How amazing it must be to hunt flying in the wind Bigby waves at Neko. Bigby responds to Thorondir, "they call us beastfolk. It's nice to see more animal lovers here." Bigby listens to Grindar's message and nods in agreement.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday April 24th, 2020 1:53:04 PM

As Attius slips away to placate his folks, Akuno is suddenly very much exposed. She stands up straight, dusts off her dress, and clasps her hands behind her back like an old general on the parade grounds. She twitches a little when Virgil ponders what to "do" with her. "Hey!", she protests, tail all twitchy. "I'm not a stray cat here. You don't do something about me like a dog does something about fleas!. She stares at Bigby for a second, and when he waves hello, she responds with crossed arms and a "Hmph!"

She then points an imperious finger at Virgil.

"I've been a big help to Attius since I got here." She smooths out her dresses ruffles, then starts counting off her good deeds. "The houses around here are all dirty, so I've had my unseen servants sweep them out. The drinks here are too hot, so I've used my spells to cool them down. The food here isn't seasoned, so I've used cantrips to spice it up. The boxes here are too heavy, so I've thrown em' on my princess pallet to lug em' around.. AND no one puts their name on anything, so I've arcane marked everything of value so they know it belongs to the town." One cute little fang pokes out from her smug smile. "I've even been kind enough to stay with Attius in his house for awhile to let him know how he could run things more efficiently."

When Thorondir apologizes, Akuno looks both horrified and scandalized. "Thats .. we.. that's not how it works! How lewd!" And well, when Bigby doesn't correct him, her eyes get wider. "I..I.. Look, I'm not quite sure WHERE beastfolk came from, but I promise our parents aren't animal lovers quite like you are thinking!"

Suddenly she whips out a fan and airs herself. Regaining her composure, she looks up at the sun with a frown. "Parasol please.", she says. A lacy purse opens at her side, and a red parasol pops out, then opens to shield her from the sun. "Thank you servant!" Her voice is pleasant, and her pleasure genuine. She pats some invisible thing on top of its head before she looks back to Virgil.

"So I'm basically this towns local hero. If something important is happening, I should be a part of it. Until I find my kingdom, I've decided to be as helpful a princess as I can be. One does not earn the adoration of her subjects by ignoring people in need. Rulership is servitude, after all.", she says, with what she considers to be the perfect imitation of kind nobility.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday April 24th, 2020 4:12:43 PM
'Lil realizes her mouth is hangin' open. Just a little, but still. She's taken aback for a bit, were all catfolk like this?

She also wonders if this girl's met any actual royalty before. They weren't usually so keen on gettin' their hands dirty. She shakes the thoughts off as Grindar finishes the quick version of their story. "There was a lady here, real business like. We had sort of an arrangement with her, but the fact that these trees is so special changes things. We should square up with her regardless."

"...and who knows? Maybe she'll be a help afterall." She thinks this last bit to'erself.

Sargrass and Diplomats

Background

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village d20+5=21 ;
Saturday April 25th, 2020 1:17:45 AM
Attius returns after Akuno's stunning speech, having missed Thorondir's faux pas as well. He waves back at Sol before he walks into an earful from Grindar that is seconded by Bigby and 'Lil.

Attius'es reaction is measured, but sincere. "Sentient trees? You mean like treants? Of course we knew that the groves have treants, but believe me, no one thought that they would be the source of druid wood. If anything, we thought the druids could use any sort of tree for it."

Sense motive:
DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Attius did not know what kind of tree druid wood came from.}
DC 21 Highlight to display spoiler: {Although he did not know what kind of tree the wood came from, he did not believe the druids made it.}

"Actually, druid wood comes from the cosantóir na bhféarach. Not quite the same as a treant, just like an elf is not the same as a human." Virgil explains. "I think those outside the druid community call them Singing Oaks."

When 'Lil mentions a business-like lady, Attius responds, "Edith, yes. She spoke to me just now. Wanted you to know we've recruited the craftsmen you'll need and they should be here in a week or two. Meanwhile, I need to send word to Smithira Brighthammer that you were successful."

When Virgil looks confused at the last name, Attius explains that Brighthammer was selected leader of Rattledam.

"Ah," says Virgil. "I'm sure our young friends here would like to take word to Rattledam themselves in the morning. I'll prepare seó cumhachta do na sráidbhailte to help them on their way. But if you would, Attius, I'd like to take that time for myself to look at the Stone Temple."

Attius agrees with Virgil's request, and asks that they take Akuno with them in case Rattledam has heard of her homeland. He also tells the party that their previous lodgings are still available.

If you understand druidic Highlight to display spoiler: {
"Cosantóir na bhféarach" means "Defender of the Grasslands".
"Seó cumhachta do na sráidbhailte" means "a show of power for the villagers"
}

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+4=21 ;
Saturday April 25th, 2020 6:05:56 PM
Thorondir smiles at the reaction of the little cat girl. Clearly, she will be interesting.

"Akuno, I did not mean to insult you. Cross pollination isn't an insult though, plants have been doing it for a long time. Perhaps you will become a new species if there is another of your kind to mate with. I'll keep an eye out for you. I don't suppose Bigby Wolf here will do, him being a dog and you a cat."
Then, with a grin he adds "I am glad to learn that you are a hero, we could use more of those. I also accept your offer of servitude."

sense motive 21
To Attius, he says "Well, it seems to me that you knew more than you are letting on about druid wood. Suffice it to say that obtaining it won't be easy for you in the future. Though, we do have Genyielt (taps the trunk) here to deal with."

Looking to Virgil he nods, and says "Let me know if I can be of assistance in preparing the seó cumhachta do na sráidbhailte, I'm sure it will be most useful."

Aewen continues to circle, looking for a meal.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+2=6 ;
Sunday April 26th, 2020 10:18:23 AM

Grindar is clueless as to whether or not Attius is being honest, so assumes he is.
He asks Akuno, “Miss Neko, if you don’t mind me asking, what skill set do you bring to the table? It helps to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, when traveling together.”
After the discussion with Akuno, Grindar says to his friends, ”I wonder what can be made out of those beetle wings, does anyone object to me taking them to a smith and asking?” If no one objects, he will head to the caravan and look for an armor smith. If he finds one, he will ask the smith, ”Good sir, my friends and I obtained these beautiful carapaces on our recent journey , and was wondering what kind of beautiful armors/shields could be made from these lovely things?

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday April 26th, 2020 1:36:45 PM
Caelwyn blinks in astonishment at Akuno's monologue. Hmm, he thinks, this will be interesting...

However, he smiles, and nods at her. "Pleased to meet you. I appreciate your desire to work hard and assist others - such is the will of the gods."

He also barely restrains his laughter at the dialogue between Thorondir and the beastfolk. Those semi-isolationist elves...they sometimes weren't aware of proper decorum. Can't really blame him.

Caelwyn is pleased that Attius and Virgil seem to understand each other and be on good terms. He agrees that they need to speak with Edit, and appreciates Grindar's questions about the insect carapaces. He hopes they can make them into something useful.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=19 ;
Monday April 27th, 2020 9:50:07 AM
'Lil ain't touching none a this beastfolk crossbreeding business. No sir.

She figures Attius really didn't know that sentient trees were where druidwood came from, so she lets that go too.

The whole business with Edith concerns her, but the decision ain't hers to make. That's all Virgil's call. She exhales a bit when she realizes that for this moment, she doesn't have much to worry about. She's pretty stoked that Virgil will be able to get them back to Rattledam fast. She hopes everything's still good there.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday April 27th, 2020 11:40:42 AM

"Akuno looks from Thoromir to Bigby. Deeps shades of red color her cheeks. "Now listen here you perverted druid, I'm not trying to drop a litter with some random mutt or tomcat! I'm a girl of stature and noble birth! My betrothed will be some other ruler or noble, not just anyone who has the fitting parts to.. to.. make kittens!"

When Thoromir "accepts her servitude", she snatches up her parasol, then kicks her unseen servant at him from across the grass. She's about to follow up with another, when Grindar. gets her attention. Grumbling, she's only too happy to be distracted.

"I'm a sorceress. Magic comes to me easily, so long as I follow my destiny." She grins. "Wanna see? Wanna see what I can do?" She points to a spot in the grass, and a moment later, a translucent disk hovers in place. "Isn't that neat! Isn't it great?" She pulls a few pillows from within her backpack, and tosses them on the disk. If anything, it does look comfortable.

Sitting cross-legged on her disk, her dress tucked carefully away so as not to be improper, Akuno grins.
"I can also change my temperature and make ice cubes and stuff. Then there's the unseen servants. I can summon those guys like all day long." Impressed with herself, Akuno lounges back into her pillows.

She then responds to Caelwyn., nimbly hopping off her disk into a well practiced curtsy. She takes a moment to consider his weapons, armor, and his holy symbol of Domi.

"Likewise, noble and handsome knight! I trust in your arms and valor to protect me. I happily place myself into your care!" She looks to be ready to say more, to whom its not quite clear, when a loud gurgle interrupts her own chatter. She looks down sheepishly at her stomach. "Uh, I know we've got a secret meeting and stuff, but maybe afterwards we could grab some food? One of the tavern owners here offered me dinner as thanks, and it would be rude not to reward her generosity with an appearance."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+2=19 ;
Monday April 27th, 2020 12:25:00 PM
sense motive 19. probably something to it, but I'm hungry. Bigby just chuckles at what Thorondir suggests. it's not easy to make him laugh in the lands of the Sargrass. I mean Bigby had been swallowed by a frog, ate by giant fire ants, and chased by cannibals, and there was more that happened. He figured laugh while you're still alive. He was going to say something in response to Akuno but decided against it. this one was very different from the only other female he knew 'Lil. "Anyhow, let's get some food."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=14 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+12=31 ;
Monday April 27th, 2020 4:08:09 PM
((OoC Sense motive - 14, Arcana to Identify the spell - 31))

Sol believes Attius, and has no reason to further doubt him. However when he hears Akuno say 'Sorceress' he perks up and pays closer attention, after she casts the spell he smiles widely, looking over it.

"Ah! A floating disk! An impressive spell... it is good to see another Arcane caster out here."

He smiles brightly, offering her a hand.

"Elijah Solomon. But my friends call me Sol. I am also a student of the Arcane arts... though perhaps not as... naturally gifted as you."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday April 27th, 2020 9:50:10 PM
Caelwyn smiles. "By Domi's will, lady, I shall do all in my power to protect you and all other innocents. Such is my calling."

He agrees with Lil's feelings as well. "I wonder how things are in Rattledam...it seems ages since we left."

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Monday April 27th, 2020 11:36:01 PM
Virgil listens to the group and turns to Attius. Quietly, he asks, "You really think she'll learn anything useful? . . . Very well." He addresses the group with a smile, "Well, I'm sure you have things to do. Just be back in the morning. You, too, Miss Neko."

Virgil and Attius stay talking to each other, giving everyone else a chance to spend the afternoon and evening doing whatever needs catching up on. Grindar has said he wants to go to the caravan. The group can go with him, or split up until dinner.

As you debate what to do, Virgil is asking Attius for his opinion of Edith.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday April 28th, 2020 6:45:47 AM
Grindar asks if anyone wants to join him, as he heads to caravan to see what can be done with the beetle wings, and perhaps get a appraisal. With or without his friends, he seeks out a armor smith and asks, ”Good sir, in our journey we obtained these lovely items, and was wondering what a skilled smith such as yourself could craft out of them, or for that matter, what they may be worth in their raw condition?”

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday April 28th, 2020 2:07:23 PM
Grindar really wanted that tower shield. Seems like he's asking everyone he can. She need both'er hands to wield Maya, so it ain't for 'Lil.

She sits back and takes in this new cat girl. She sure seemed impressed by her own abilities. 'Lil grew up in Hook City, though. She knew minor magics when she saw'em. Still better than 'Lil could manage; she couldn't do squat without askin' Domi for help, and she wasn't about to go puttin' down this girl.

Maybe she'd stick around. 'Lil's gotten used to being the only woman in the party. She might have to stop callin' them her dudes...or maybe not. "Hey Akuno, how would ya feel about being called a dude?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday April 28th, 2020 3:12:35 PM

When Akuno hears someone request food, her ears perk up. "Yea! Lets go get some f---", as she turns, she notes that its coming from the Dogperson. Her tail flicks, and she starts to hestiantly agree, when Caelywn, fresh off his vow of protection, catches her attention instead.

"Ah! So valiant! Tell me, are all here your retinue? Do they travel in service to you and the cause you follow? She looks at Bigby, then back to Caelwyn. "Is that one perhaps your squire?" She tries to follow his conversations a little. "What is Rattledam?"

When Sol introduces himself as a wizard, Akunos eyes become saucer sized. "I've never met a wizard before. Is it true you can learn any spell you want? I can cheat a little, I'm pretty good at reading scrolls and things, but my own spells are pretty much limited to things that make life easier for me. It started when I was a kid." The irony of her only been sixteen, yet referring to her childhood, is seemingly lost on the catgirl."I read lots of books about princesses and heroes as a kid. Their stories of lives of luxury were all I wanted more than anything. When my magic developed, it took that sort of form. Servants, ease, luxury, and assistance.. magic brought me everything my upbringing left out of reach. I don't know when, or if that will change, but each spell I discover seems to have something to do with the yearnings of my childhood."

When 'Lil asks her a question, she looks a little confused. She sticks a finger under her chin and look up, like the answer might be in the sky somewhere. "Uhm, gee. I dunno really. I've never heard that word. Is it salacious? Unsavory? Does it mean I'm a certain kind of disreputable woman? I don't mean insult, but I hear adventurers can be pretty uncouth." Akuno seems to consider it for a moment more, then smiles big. "As long as it isn't anything that would cause scandal for my parents or my kingdom, I don't mind being called your dude, Lady 'Lil!"

All the excitement had caused Akuno to forget all about her sad stomach, until it finally grumbled again. She didn't like eating alone, and yet only one person had taken her up on food. She looks at Bigby again, and she is clearly troubled. Finally, she takes a deep breath, approaches him. She suddenly conjures up a little bit of excitement, as best as she can. "Hewwo!", she speaks excitedly, as if talking to a puppy. "Does the big fella wanna take a walk!? Hmm?" She shakes a bit of rope, sort of like a leash. "Does the big guy want dinner? Huh? Where's your bowl? Bring Akuno your bowl!"

She shoots Attius a glance. He told her she needed to get along with everyone, and quite clearly, she was killing it. She was surprised at how great she was sometimes. She gives him a big ol' thumbs up, and looks back to Bigby. She slaps her leg and jerks her head towards a place for food.

"C'mon boy! C'mon!" She then gives everyone else one last shot to save her from eating alone with a dog. "Anyone else can come too, of course! Anyone at all!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday April 28th, 2020 3:34:46 PM
So, the little cat girl has some spunk. That could come in handy perhaps.
"Pardon me Akuno, I did not mean to imply that you were ready to breed. Perhaps that will come later, when some time has passed and you have had a chance to .. oh what is that term in common? Mature? Anyway, I'm sure a courtship would be involved anyway. Forget I said anything."
Clearly, upon eyeing her upon the floating disk he does not seem too concerned about being assaulted with a fluffy pillow.

Certainly when the cat girl goes over and calls to the dog boy that clinches it.
"Dudes, I will join you for some supper.

Aewen continues to hunt from above, and Thorondir looks up with longing. He would much rather go up and join her. Fresh kill and eating as an eagle is much preferable.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday April 28th, 2020 5:02:59 PM
Bigby was about to go for a bite but heard grindar offer to go to the caravan and decides to go with the big guy. "I'll go with ya Grindar. perhaps we can get a hunt in on the way back." He looks to Neko, "perhaps we can rain check. Sorry, but we he points to Wolfgang and himself,don't wear leashes. Those are for slaves or pets. We aren't either of those and never will be. Hope you enjoy your meal." He wispers to Wolfgang, as he walks away, "you believe her?" They chuckle.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday April 28th, 2020 6:08:37 PM
Sol nods.

"Yes, I think I'd be capable of learning any spell you put in front of me... might take me some time and more than one attempt though to be honest with you..."

He smiles.

"Food sounds good, if you were still looking for company?"

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Tuesday April 28th, 2020 11:41:45 PM
Wolfgang and Llew remain out of the village proper, at least for now.

'Lil, Caewyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {Pick one or the other group to go with, and read their spoiler.}

Grindar, Bigby: Highlight to display spoiler: {
The smith looks Grinder over before answering, "I'd pay fifteen gold each for those if you're looking to sell them. As for what you can make from them, I can turn them into shields. Among the Harvesters, some use them to make armor."

While Grindar is talking to the armor smith, the weapon smith also comes over. "Son of Grindor! I'm glad I got the chance to see you before we left. I remembered you were looking for someone to remake your father's axe. Well, I've got a bit of news. I met a guy from another caravan that came through here, one from Zaran City. He said there's a gnomish craftsman there who could do a job like that. I looked at his work, and it was real good. He'd be reliable about that sort of talent."

Wandering around the caravan a bit, it's clear the merchants have changed somewhat since the party was last here. More craftsmen have stayed than traders, but even the craftsmen have turned over to a large degree. There is a wagon with a connection to the Catacombs; it's one of the wagons leaving soon. There, Bigby learns that the nearest WLA chapterhouse is in Zaran City.}

Akuno, Thorondor, Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {
It's a bit early for dinner, but Akuno's stomach is growling and she was offered free dinners at Cullivers, so...

Sol remembers Cullivers as the rival tavern to the Crystal Palace, which holds frequent singing contests. Singing is popular among the monks, who are famous for manipulating the crystals of the nearby mountains with their songs.

As the group enters Cullivers, they are greeted and shown to seats. The tavern has three long tables, where patrons typically grab any available seat. This early the place is not full. The group is steered to the middle of the center table. Service is a little slow considering the small number of patrons, but the food comes and it's pretty good.

"Hey, you fought the chupacabras didn't you? Glad to have you back," someone says to Sol. The guy is happy to buy Sol and his companions a drink as he sits and makes idle talk. As the afternoon grows older and more patrons come, the group find themselves in the center of a growing crowd.
}

The crew that went to the caravans ends up at Cullivers for dinner, knowing that's where their friends were going. They find the patrons of the tavern mostly clustered around the group that's already there, in the center of the room, making sitting with them difficult to impossible.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday April 29th, 2020 5:51:44 AM
"Thank you good sir, I will talk to my comrades, and together we will decide what to do with these things", Grindar says with a smile. Turning to the weaponsmith, Grindar asks, "Where is Zaran City? I would very much like to talk to this gnome!"

At Cullvers, Grindar shares what he learned with the rest of his crew, and asks, "So do we want to sell them, have this gentleman craft shields out of them, or ask Freakshow if either he or his people could make some armor out of them, when we get back to Rattledam. I'm no expert, but I can't see why one of these things couldn't be made into a breastplate, and since it would be natural materials, Bigby, Thorondor, or myself would be able to wear them, and there are two of them!" It is clear by his enthusiasm that he would rather talk to Freakshow. He also shares his desire to travel to Zaran City.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday April 29th, 2020 3:12:24 PM
'Lil looks at Caelwyn as the party splits. "Dibs on the fun group," she says and trots along after Sol and the newbies.

"Dude," she explains, "is a slang term for a guy who's generally a..." She stops. How do you explain dude without the word dude?

"It means a good guy," is what she settles with. "I been the only woman in the group since that healer got taken out cuz'a sea sickness. I've been keepin' these dudes alive since. Obviously you ain't a guy, but it's super easy to refer to the rest of the group as 'my dudes'. If anything, it might cause some scandal because'a bein' too familiar for someone of your station." It's almost a joke, but 'Lil's curious to watch her response.

'Lil's glad to have civilized food again. She eats hardily.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday April 29th, 2020 4:07:58 PM
"we gotta eventually go to zaran city. I'll eventually need to pay my 1000 dues. Maybe Sol should get one of the amulets. Just a thought."

Once back with everyone Bigby will join for dinner. "What did we miss?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday April 29th, 2020 5:07:07 PM
Thorondir sits at the table, happy the place isn't too crowded.
"So Akuno, I think you may have insulted Bigby, the wolf boy. I'm with him, ropes don't belong on free creatures. You seem good hearted though, so I'm sure things will get better. I'm new here too, so I really don't know any of these folks."

Thorondir happily eats his food, and enjoys the drink provided by Sol's friend.
"So Sol, you fought a chupacabra? They are foul creatures, best to be rid of them. I'd be happy to help if you ever meet another."

Then, the crowd grows. Thorondir is not very happy, he sits looking around constantly, hoping to get out soon, or at least avoid trouble in such a crowded setting.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday April 29th, 2020 5:29:02 PM
Sol smiles and offers his thanks to the bar patron as he buys a round of drinks.

"Erm... well... yes. But I must be honest... I did not do much. I seem to have an incredible talent for missing with my spells... besides I am not really a warrior. Lil, Caelwyn, Grindar and Bigby are the ones who really defeated the Chupacabra, I was just there."

He smiles self deprecatingly.

"I unfortunately do not have much might either physical..." he indicates his rather wiry and slim body. "... or arcane to be much help in a fight. Though I am learning, and my studies will hopefully one day allow me to be quite effective... or so I am hoping."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday April 29th, 2020 11:40:26 PM

Akuno watches Bigby ride away. She cocks her head abit sideways, then gives the leash one final shake. She looks down to her side and tosses it to an unseen servant, who starts to coil it at her request. One fang poking out, her mouth sets a hard line. With a grumble, she cups her hands and yells. "Yea! Well, it wasn't like I was hoping you would come or anything! I was just being polite cuz I don't like eating alone!" She turns and locks arms with Sol, and has him escort her, with the others, to the inn. She makes a point to squeeze in between 'Lil and Sol.

Eating with the others, she orders the fish. As soon as it hits the table in front of her, Akuno starts munching. In between mouthfuls, she answers some questions.

"That's fine then 'Lil. While nobility should avoid becoming too familiar and lowering the awe held for those of station, behind every great king, queen, or princess is a cadre of advisors, knights, and friends who are allowed the privilege of familiarity. I'd be pleased if we became that close, so Dude is just fine!" She beams a smile a 'Lil, oblivious to the fish on her cheek.

When Thorondir suggests she insulted Bigby, she clams up a little. Her tail flicks in agitation, whapping against Sol more than once.

"So? He refused our fine company. And people shouldn't think of the leash as slavery, its guidance!" She pouts a little, and wiggles her shoulders with what might possibly be guilt. "Besides, I don't know how smart a dog boy is, or how to talk to him. I thought if I wiggled the rope at him and teased him just a little, he might come play with us, ya know? I think chasing string is fun, as long as commoners aren't watching." She sits for a moment, a bit melancholy, before banging her tiny fists on the table and tearing into whats left of her dinner to shake off the mood. She grabs her drink and gulps it down.

When Sol starts putting himself down, Akuno slaps him on the back and shoves the new drinks towards him with so much gusto its a miracle he isn't soaked. "Don't say that! I don't know anything at all about being an adventurer. I've never even seen a monster, just bad people. But if Caelwyn and Grindar and Lil all want you around, then that means you are a capable adventurer too!"

When Bigby and Grindar make it in, she's done with the fish and three rounds of drinks. Red cheeks and watery eyes, she squints at Bigby. Leaning close, close enough for him to feel her breath on his nose, she reaches up and pets his left ear. She considers him for a second, then says. "Dude. I think my ears are softer than yours."

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Thursday April 30th, 2020 12:39:28 AM
Most of the group enjoys their hero's welcome back to the Stone Temple village, and the less social members survive somehow. Before it gets too late, the group decides to head to their lodgings. For Grindar, 'Lil, Bigby, Sol, and Caelwyn that means the large room they were assigned when they were last here, and where Wolfgang and Llew are waiting. For Akuno it's a different room near the administrators' lodgings. And Thorondir seems to prefer the open sky to the village tonight, knowing that there's a portion of the grove nearby.

The next morning, everyone is up early, either with excitement or disquiet at the prospect of going to Rattledam.

After greeting you at the field turned grove, Virgil says he plans to stay here. "The Stone Temple was built by the druids of an earlier age, you know. I'd like the chance to visit it." He is afraid this won't be a long trip, though. "Let Rattledam know what you've done, say your hellos to folks, but don't stay long. Genyielt is here, and this is where we'll be building the ship."

Not unexpectedly, a small crowd has gathered to watch.

Virgil starts casting, and a cloud of fog appears among the trees. As he continues, a low sound starts, becoming an ethereal humming. "The way is prepared," he says after a minute, gesturing for you to enter the fog.

The fog is so thick you can't see five feet, but within it there is a shimmering "tube" or "pipe" of swirling air about six feet in diameter leading further into the fog, flanked by three squirrel guys standing there and waiting. They are humming along with the music the tube is making. One goes in; the others wait, then fall in behind as the group follows the first. Once inside, your strides eat up the miles as the Sar speeds past. It is a mere five hour walk to Rattledam.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=13 ;
Thursday April 30th, 2020 5:53:14 AM
With Llew by his side, Grindar is almost giddy at the prospect of returning to what he considers home. he casts speak with animals so he can talk to Llew and comfort him letting him know that this strange fog/tube is Okay, and the squirrel creatures are friends not food. Turning to Akuno he says, "Miss Neko, as this is your first time in the fey corridor, you should know that there isn't anything to be afraid of, unless of course another mutation bloom decides to disrupt things". He chuckles as he mentions the mutation bloom, but deep inside he does worry about it happening again.

As they step out of the fey corridor, he looks around to take in any changes that may have occurred since their departure. In particular, he is looking to see how far the others have advanced with the rebuilding of the town. He also scans the area looking for Freakshow, Needle, Ahyoka, and the rest. (perception 13)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday April 30th, 2020 3:56:43 PM
Bigby grins at Neko's comment about the ears. Maybe they will be friends. He introduces her to Wolfgang. "this is wolfgang. He likes to be pet behind the ears." Wolfgang looks up at Neko with big eyes awaiting her response.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday April 30th, 2020 5:17:58 PM
'Lil tries to remember if she has a "home" to return to in Rattledam. If not, they'd need to get one fast.

She's half way through the tunnel when she starts wondering how they'll get back to start crafting that ship. Can Virgil open a tunnel from the other end and still let them travel along it? Maybe these squirrel dudes can do it.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday April 30th, 2020 9:29:55 PM
Thorondir gets out of the crowded Cullivers just in time. Immediately on stepping outside, he jumps off the step and take the shape of an eagle. Quickly he leaves behind the stench caused by crowding too many in one place, and he finds Aewen and they fly together in lazy circles. As the sun sets, they land in the grove. Aewen finds a good perch, and Thorondir turns back into his self and settles into a large notch in the tree. Somehow, the energy coming up through the roots grounds Thorondir too.

As the crowd gathers, Thorondir finally meets with the others with Aewen on his shoulder. Right before he steps into the fog he says "Next time warn me before I get stuck in a crowded room, I'd rather fight orcs." Looking at Grindar he adds "No offense"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday April 30th, 2020 10:30:28 PM

The next morning is positively dreadful, according to poor Akuno. Her mouth is dry, her head hurts, and for some reason, she smells like wolf. She racks her brain trying to remember what happened, but every time she gets a picture in her mind of her being WAY too close to Bigby, and he tells her in a husky voice to pet him behind his ears.

"Eeeee! No way!, she shrieks. Her sudden jerk knocks the hairbrush from her unseen servants grasp, and it has to pick it up again. She looks at where she thinks the servant should be. "It must have been Wolfgang. It HAD to be Wolfgang!" The unseen servant says nothing, of course. "I'm never drinking again!, she vows to one of her unseen servants. It had heard this before, and doubted greatly that her prohibition would last.

She takes a few steps outside, and with each step one her head hurts more than the last. "Nope." She says. It was clearly too much.

Akuno Neko had never considered anything to be a waste of magic. As she finds her way to the others, she is lounging in a floating disc secured to an unseen servant by a rope. Laying back in the disc full of pillows, she is being fanned by a second servant, who is also holding a flask of chilled juice with a straw that Akuno seeks out with as little movement as possible.

When Grindar tells her about the fey corridor, she gives a weak thumbs up. Then, for the first time, she suddenly notices Llew. She sits up fast enough to topple her fan-servant and spill her juice. "That's a pretty kitty." she says, before collapsing back into her pillows, where she conjures her servants back into place.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday April 30th, 2020 11:31:26 PM
Caelwyn tagged along with Bigby and Grindar, listening to what the merchants and craftsmen had to say. "I am definitely interested in turning those wings into some kind of armor or shield...I could make use of a tower shield, perhaps? And as you say, several of us could wear a breastplate of this material."

He is glad the walk to Rattledam will be shorter, but he is a bit nervous. "It seems a while since we left...do you think everyone is doing alright?" He sends up a prayer to Domi that they find a town that is thriving, or at least surviving.

DM Steve -- Rattledam
Friday May 1st, 2020 12:22:45 AM
Rattledam looks like a village. Which is to say that the mounds of earth where grass will not grow now have small grass huts on them instead of tents. Grindar looks for people, but sees none. At least not at first. While the party is walking towards the town, a shout goes up. Shortly after that, people start appearing from the huts. Caelwyn is glad to see they look well enough off.

First to reach the party is Smithira. The red-headed dwarf looks tired as she welcomes the party. "Looks like you had no luck, but we're glad to have you back. You're looking good. Who are your new friends?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday May 1st, 2020 2:23:21 AM
Sol smiles widely at being back at Rattledam, this smile seems a little brighter and happier than his normal smile.

"It is good to be back... these are some other fellows we met along the way, who wanted to help us. That is Akuno and Thorondir." He indicates each in turn. "Akuno may be feeling a little worse for wear... she perhaps drank a little too much last night. However, as for not having any luck... well we did... but I think it is perhaps best to let someone who is more knowledgeable explain the situation..."

He pauses getting a little awkward and uncertain of himself.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday May 1st, 2020 6:53:14 AM
Grindar chuckles at Thorodir’s orc comment, and then says, “I’m only half orc, and to be honest, I’ve never met a full one, I’m a second generation half-orc after all!”

He is so happy to see Smithira he almost reaches out to give her a bear hug, but restrains himself. He says”I see progress has been made since we left, I’m glad to see it! How have things faired since we left, and where is everyone?” He’s so happy he momentarily forgets all about the ship that is under construction in the Crystal Mountains.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday May 1st, 2020 3:39:53 PM
'Lil makes a mental note: new girl can't handle her liquor. She's sure that'll be fun someday.

"We had luck, it was just mostly bad," 'Lil starts. "We got plenty of druidwood, and I sure hope it's worth what it cost a bunch'a really great druids. There's a bunch'a dudes descending on a village over yonder to start building a ship from the body of a druid tree named Genyielt. We didn't get a chance to get to know him, but we saw him save a bunch'a lives and kill a bunch'a mutants tryin' to kill us.

"His friend Virgil is with his remains. He decided to go ahead and let his friend get turned into a boat. That upset a whole bunch of druids. The boat will be his to captain, though."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=15 ;
Friday May 1st, 2020 3:42:11 PM
so this is home, Bigby thought. It's funny, it though I fight for the people here, it doesn't quite feel like home. But maybe it could be home for Bigby and Wolfgang.

Bigby and Wolfgang hunt if there's time for it. oh the joy of the hunt.

"Let us know when it is time to go. We will be ready."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday May 1st, 2020 9:48:40 PM
Thorondir nods as he is introduced. "Please let me know if I can be of service." As he glances around, he notices that Bigby and Wolfgang are off to a hunt. With a grin, he adds "Excuse me, I need to go help Bigby."

Tossing Aewen into the air, Thorondir turns into an eagle and follows her. Nothing like ground hunters to scare up game for an eagle.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday May 1st, 2020 10:55:39 PM

Feeling better, Akuno sits quietly on her pillow-disc for a moment, tail flickering in apprehension of being in a new space. Everyone else had something to do here, or some place to go visit. She was pretty a much a stranger in these parts, with a handful of one-day acquaintances.

She's pieced together a bit of the mess that these adventurers had found themselves in, but couldn't manage in her brain how to console someone for the loss of a tree. She figured it would be best to let them wrap this adventure up themselves.

Looking down at an unseen servant, she dismisses her disc and pats it on the head. "No fear little guy, Akuno is here! I'll find us some fish! That'll make you feel better! No cat worth her catnips afraid of a strange alley!" The servant quivered, its own version of a sigh, and lifted her parasol in one hand, and held her drink in the other before hustling after its mistress.

DM Steve -- Rattledam d20+18=24 ;
Friday May 1st, 2020 11:57:07 PM
Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {The fairy diddles (sqirrel dudes) have been talking among themselves in Sylvan, and Sol has overheard enough to know that they must rest before another journey. As the townsfolk approach, though, the diddles vanish.}
-----

Smithira gets suddenly serious when she hears 'Lil. "We'll pull the village leaders together tonight. They'll all want to hear what you have to say."

Bigby and Thorondir: Highlight to display spoiler: {The foursome enjoy an afternoon of hunting. As Bigby knows, Rattledam can always use a little extra food, if the hunt goes well.}

Akuno: Highlight to display spoiler: {The search for fish in the back alleys of a small, grass hut village in the middle of an arid grassland is, unfortunately, both unsuccessful and short. She runs into a thin elf with a blue mowhawk and lots of cheek and nose rings. But when she explains what she's looking for he starts talking about eating grass. She is later approached by Taggert, a tall man who'd been talking to Caelwyn earlier. He's more helpful than mohawk was. Although they do not find any fish, he does get her some 'prairie pig' jerky. "Sure hope to see you again," he says, sincerely, at the end of their conversation.}

Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Too long has it been, Solomon. I would be happy to hear the picks you have made in the time." Needle greets Sol enthusiastically (for Needle). The two watch people together for the afternoon, talking only when the mood strikes. Never one to be unproductive, Needle also spends the time shaping a small tool out of a white rock, or perhaps a piece of bone. Sol learns that Ahyoka is leading a group looking for riggrass and the village has insect problems.}

Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {While Grindar is walking through town, he hears, "Hey, Grindar!" and turns to see Freakshow leaving a conversation with Akuno. "Why're you packing with that little girl? You're moonshadow, and her hands are white." The two spend the rest of the afternoon catching up. Among other things, Freakshow confirms that the beetle wings can be made into armor, although it takes time. He calls it lamellar armor, and says it can be more effective than hide armor, though not as strong as metal.}

'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {"We've started napping at midday now." A gnome strikes up a conversation with 'Lil. "If we've met, I'm sorry I don't remember it. But I've heard a lot about you. Name's Sprocket." 'Lil may vaguely remember hearing that the fellow's home was destroyed by bloodgrass mutants in the turmoil before the plains returned. "You've got Smithira worried. We don't know this druid who's laying claim to the boat. She asked if I'd go get a read on him." Sprocket turns out to be a good conversationalist, and had been a leader of his old village before it was destroyed. He shows 'Lil the shrine he has built to the three aspects of the Sar and talks about plans for a garden there, although he confides he prefers the Preservationist. He also asks what the monk village is like.}

Caelwyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {As he walks around the town taking in the changes, Caelwyn is approached by a tall and skinny, but very affable man. "I'm Taggert. Think I arrived just after you left." When Akuno passes by, he says, "Cute kid. Think she'll be here long?" But the topic he's most interested in is the boat. To hear him tell it, he's managed to figure out the workings of just about everything he's set his mind to. Sailing must be amazing, figuring out how to move a ship one way with the wind blowing another. "But I don't suppose I'll get the chance. Wouldn't want to bounce unless I have to."}

People spending time in town are not surprised to learn that word spread quickly through town about the meeting that night. It doesn't take long for the time to come. After being fed, the party retires to a building with Smithira and several others -- a tall, skinny man named Taggert; a muscular dwarf called Gruff; a gnome going by Sprocket; a scarred dwarf called Broag; and of course the elf with the footlong mohawk, Freakshow. There, the party members are asked to tell Smithira just about everything they've seen since they left.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Sunday May 3rd, 2020 4:43:50 PM
Grindar enjoys his time with Freakshow. He answers Freakshow's question by saying, "She seems more than a little up on herself I know, but if she's planning on spending any time in the Sargrass, that cat-girl has a rude awakening coming, and who knows, maybe she'll turn out to be a valuable companion after some trials". He asks the Harvester if he knows where Zaran City is, and how to get there, and asks about the cost of the lamellar armor, and how many suits could be made of the two wings, as well as how he or his friends would find a Harvester armorer.

At the meeting, Grindar notices the absence of Needle, the Climber, and their Manfri friend, Ahyoka. He wonders where they may have gone, and whether they decided to return to their homes. He decides to ask before the meeting officially begins. As the meeting begins in earnest, he allows his more Charismatic friends do talking, adding tidbits of information to fill in any blanks.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Sunday May 3rd, 2020 8:48:57 PM
Thorondir returns from hunting, bringing any meat to share with the community.

When the meeting starts, he tries to stay towards the edge as he watches and listens.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday May 3rd, 2020 9:35:38 PM
Caelwyn does his best to fill everyone in on the details of their adventures. "We have actually found great success, but it has come at a cost. We hope soon to have a great ship to sail above the grasses, bringing all we need to and from Rattledam! But we must protect and venerate it, for it's timber and beams come from an ancient, living creature...one of the fabled druid trees."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday May 4th, 2020 11:57:06 AM
Bigby welcomes Thorondir in the hunt. He's still amazed at hunting through the air. Not being one that is good with communication, he makes his attempt with Thorondir. Ahem, so cool bird, what's his name? Bigby focuses on the land hunt. the air rushing through his fur. The heightened sense of smell of the Sargrass around him. And the thrill of catching something. All of the things that make hunting with Wolfgang so fun. Bigby heads back with any food they caught proudly with a smile.

Lil (Jeremy subbing)
Monday May 4th, 2020 5:36:16 PM
Lil is about to share what the party has been up to, but when Caelwyn steps up, she lets him roll with it. When he's done, she gives him her signature punch in the shoulder, and says, "Well spoken dude!"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday May 4th, 2020 6:24:03 PM
Sol relaxes and allows himself to not stress, despite the harsh situations they have found themselves in. He enjoys Needle's company, and the silence just as much. He uses the time to update his diary and ensure that it is accurate and correct, double checking with other members of the party to ensure he has every down. ((If any member of the party refuses to help, just let me know, but I'm kind of assuming you're all willing to answer!))

He is somewhat excited for the evening, to see what it brings, and what new problems they will no doubt have to deal with, which far from being a bad thing in Sol's eyes, is indeed something he looks forward to, a way of using his Arcane powers helpfully.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday May 4th, 2020 9:58:15 PM

Having met Freakshow, who seems to have known her other acquaintances, Akuno tags along with the others. As people decide to step up, or back off, she finds herself somewhat gravitating to Sol.

She sits next to him, her legs kicking. "Did you know this place doesn't have fish?", she asks. It was clear this place needed someone to save it.

DM Steve -- Rattledam
Tuesday May 5th, 2020 8:58:47 AM
(Sorry, guys, I think I messed up coordinating the hand-off...)

The leaders of Rattledam listen attentively. They "oooh" and "aah" appropriately, worry over the encounters with the swarms, and ask everyone to elaborate -- particularly asking for more details on the peoples you have met and the mutation bloom. When all is said, though, they are concerned that they don't know the man who will captain the boat, or the grove that he comes from. Smithira proposes that Sprocket return with the heroes to meet Virgil. After a bid by Taggert to be the one who goes, and much discussion, the group agrees with Smithira's plan, provided that the party is willing.

Subbing for Lil (Jeremy)
Tuesday May 5th, 2020 5:29:53 PM
"Don't everyone fight over who's going to join us!", Lil says as Taggert, and Sprocket both bid to join the party on a return trip to the Crystal Mountain.

Grindar (Jeremy)
Tuesday May 5th, 2020 5:33:48 PM
"Oh great, now we have to head back to the Stone Temple, and we just got here!" Grindar thinks to himself, "And we get to protect Sprocket too. Yeah!" He keeps his thoughts to himself of course, and says, "I suppose we can leave in the morning".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday May 5th, 2020 5:52:32 PM
Bigby looks at Grindar and 'Lil's expressions and hears what they say, and just adds, "you guys better not die. there he thought, he did his part

Bigby nods to Grindar. "you missed out on the hunt. Thorondir's got an bird that hunts with him. You believe that?"

As for the equipment, "Grindar you take one of the necklaces and Sol you want one too? No offense but youre a little squishy. I don't remember what else we got.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday May 5th, 2020 7:45:04 PM
"Bigby, you and the wolf are good hunters. When you run through the bush you flush out game for us. We can also tell you where the big game are as we fly above. Perhaps next time if we coordinate our efforts we could feed more people. Though I am sure you will only kill what can be eaten."

The hunt was fun, but this gathering of people he doesn't know has Thorondir on edge. He sits quietly by, watching and trying to learn what has happened before he joined with this group, less than two days ago.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday May 5th, 2020 8:34:55 PM
Caelwyn sees no problems with this. "We want to get back soon anyway, to keep an eye on things and help out with the building of the ship."

He spends some time communing with Domi, thankful that Rattledam has remained safe in their absence.

This Means You Can Talk [DM Jerry] d100=96 ; d100=33 ; d100=52 ;
Tuesday May 5th, 2020 10:40:06 PM
Bigby and Thorondir bring back several Blind Swallows who are very odd in that they have no eyes. Not even eye sockets. They are very tasty birds, however, when roasted properly with the right seasonings. They also catch a couple of Prairie Pigs, which will feed quite a few. They do spot a bounder, but only at a distance and it spooks the herd away quickly.

During Caelwyn's story, the group of folks gathering around grows and Smithira motions everyone to sit. No one interrupts. Then when she is done, the questions come at them so quickly, there is no way to answer them all.

A tall skinny man, known as Needle the Climber, produces a braided and painted piece of stickgrass. He holds it aloft and then hands it to Taggert Billslide and says to him, "This means you can talk."

Taggert fumbles over his words and slightly embarrassed says, "I forgot what I wanted to ask." He looks around and hands it to a young woman. "I'm Sythadriel, a weaver from DreMoria. So you're telling me that you met some Fae? And they LET you go through their territory and it was a hallway?"

After that question is answered, she passes it on to the only Manfri there and the only one that seemingly will stay in the village -- Ahyoka. "You traveled so far south that you found druid trees? And they were alive tended by druids? Tell us more!"

Ahyoka passes it to Nicephorus the only centaur in the village. "How are the monks doing? Are they still dealing with the explosions of the Crystal Mountains? And there was a museum there?"

Freakshow interrupts saying, "I was at Stone Temple Village on my last journey. There's a huge hole in the Crystal Mountains right smack in the middle of the Sargrass. That's where the explosion was." He gets shushed and says, "Oh sorry."

When done, Freakshow, evidently very curious asks, "So tell us about this boat? I for one am tired of risking my life traveling down in the grass. For sure."

After each question, the townsfolk turn to you wanting answers and details.

-----

[I'm backing up a bit in a few cases to do some detail. :)]

Grindar (Jeremy)
Wednesday May 6th, 2020 5:26:38 AM
Grindar smiles at Bigby, "A three person, three beast hunt covering both the air and the ground sounds like my idea of a good time, I am sorry I missed out for sure, but I'm certain there will be more chances in the future!" During the meeting Grindar tries to be as informative as he can, though to be honest, everything has become a bit of a blur, especially after learning that they have to make a return trip so quickly, to Stone Temple Village.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday May 6th, 2020 5:33:07 AM
Sol remains quiet, a little out of sorts with all this talk of Druidic things, and things he doesn't know much about. He listens intently though, memorising what he can and trying to ensure he remembers it to write down in his journal later.

Subbing for Lil (Jeremy)
Wednesday May 6th, 2020 5:41:04 AM
During the meeting, Lil lets Caelwyn do most of the talking, but when Freakshow asks about the boat, she speaks up, "My dudes and I don't know a lot about the boat and how it works exactly, something to do with the druid wood trees and the Sargrass grasses not liking each, or something, so they repel each other, is about all we know, but they say that's what makes it float on the grasses, so there's that. Now I don't know if it crossed any of your minds, and it better not, but a fleet of these grass boats is out of the question! The trees that produce this wood are walking, talking, thinking beings, and killin' em would be murder, and then you have to face us, and it won't be pretty. So we will have the one ship from the remains of a fallen hero.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday May 6th, 2020 3:00:58 PM
Bigby feels proud of what they had caught and smiles. When he hears what Thorondir suggests in strategy to their hunting time Bigby is overwhelmed with excitement that it comes across awkwardly. "Ahem. yes, great idea!" say something about Bigby, he's not one with words.

Bigby nods to Grindar about their future hunt.

Bigby remembers Ahyoka, "How have you been? I've remembered the trick you taught us about getting water. It's been very helpful. Thank you. The trees seem to have a bond with the druids. Some sort of pairing system. It's hard for me to understand exactly how that works, but it seems to be very special."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday May 6th, 2020 4:21:48 PM
It seems like Thorondir is finally making a friend in Bigby. Hunting together can create strong bonds. When Grindar suggests joining the next hunt, he replies "Yes, we can make a good hunting party. Four hunting on the ground and two in the air will be very efficient. We must assure though that we are not too efficient, depleting the area of game. We can talk later of strategy and a reasonable quota for a hunt."

Listening to the questions and responses, Thorondir adds:
"Yes, the bond between us druids and the trees is strong. You will not understand, but the trees are like people. They have names and a long history, they are patient and do not easily adapt to the whims of men. We will not allow more of them to be cut so that you can travel about. Stay rooted in a place and do what you can where you are planted is what you can learn from them. Though some of us must wander for a while to protect them, but in time we too should grow roots."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday May 6th, 2020 5:18:21 PM

Akuno listens to the back and forth between Thorondir and Bigby with growing levels of concern. Hunting? For every meal? How did Bigby and his wolf catch their prey? Would everything come back with dog slobber on it?

Clearly, she needed to buy more rations. Crackers and jerky could taste like rice and fish with enough prestidigitation applied.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday May 6th, 2020 8:36:54 PM
Caelwyn agrees with Lil and Thorondir. "As much as we want easier transport around the Sargrass, it'll be the one boat only. It's a miracle this is happening at all, in my opinion."

We talk and talk and... [DM Jerry]
Wednesday May 6th, 2020 10:49:53 PM
Several react to Lil' and Bigbywolf. "But they are trees? Aren't they? You'r"e saying they are giant tree people? Do they have faces?"

"When's this boat gonna be done? How big is it?"

As the meeting progresses, everyone seems to be saying the same things over and over. There's an underlying current that can almost be physically felt. The stick is forgotten. Voices just speak out.

"But we're not safe."
"We know less about less now than when we arrived."
"Is one boat really the answer to all our problems?'
"I didn't say it was..."
"I'm glad "our" adventurers are back....maybe now..."
"These adventurers are not the solution to everything..."

The meeting continues in circles, and seems to be similar to many meetings before this one.

Smithera reaches for the "stick" and tries to refocus things. So she asks the question that is on her mind, "We need to list our problems and...."

A leathery human man grabs the stick from Smithera elbowing her in the eye in the process. "All this is useless. We talk and talk and..."

Bedlam erupts! Everyone shouting and jumping to their feet.

Smithera "Granvil!! Ow my eye!"

Jarl Winspeed yells, "Granvil if you ever do....

Granvil face turning red, "If I ever what?! All we do is talk and talk. Nodin gets done! It's like you sit and wait for these wanderers to get back and now you just talk and talk and..."

Several reach to grab Granvil. He fights them trying to get loose.

"Stop fighting Granvil!"

"I'll teach you to....Ow!"

Some stand. Some try to hold Granvil. Others back away.
We'en ne'r do nothin. We needs a boss. A guy in charge. Someone who knows which end of a stick is up!"

Grindar (Jeremy)
Thursday May 7th, 2020 5:27:17 AM
Seeing the mayhem unfold before him, Grindar finds himself getting more and more frustrated, until finally, when Granvil tries to seize control of the meeting, his frustration turns to raw anger, as the orcish blood that runs through his veins begins to boil. The over-sized half-orc stands up, and in a booming voice that carries all his anger, he says, "WHAT IN, THE NAME OF THE GODS, DO YOU THINK YOUR DOING!!!!! We are all in this together, if you feel the need to fight someone fight me!" He thumps his chest to add emphasis to his words. "I agree that one boat isn't the answer to all our cares and woes, and one band of adventures isn't either, we all must do our part, play our role as it were. Smithera has taken up the role as de facto leader due to the fact that no one else would, and she deserves our respect, as she has done in admirable job, that said, I propose we set up a formal leadership chain, a government, if you will. Let us form a council of trustworthy individuals, with one person leading them. the council members should be elected by the people, as well as the council leader.

subbing for Lil (Jeremy)
Thursday May 7th, 2020 5:34:14 AM
Lil watches the the ruckus, and is about to start smacking heads together, until Grindar steps up and confronts the masses. When Grindar is done talking, she quietly tells the half-orc, "You're kinda scary when your mad"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday May 7th, 2020 1:08:06 PM
Bigby comes over to Grindars side to back him up and attempts to give his stern look of disapproval. this is simply him raising an eyebrow, and then he decides to add some growling in for good effect. He looks over to Grindar to show his approval of how he's handling things.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday May 7th, 2020 3:09:20 PM
Muttering under his breath, Thorondir says: "This is exactly why nature is better than people and towns. We can't get out of here soon enough for my liking."

He starts to fidget, trying to decide which animal would be best to wildshape into. A viper would be good, but these backwards folks would likely try and smash its head. Maybe a skunk, that may end this meeting sooner. He starts to smile while considering this.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday May 7th, 2020 3:55:47 PM
A thought crosses her head. She tries to let it go, but that really ain't her thing, you know?

"In my experience," she starts, "folks what complain about talking and not doing usually either don't do nothin' themselves, or just can't think about no one but themselves. We risked our lives to get wood for a boat. This place grew up while we were gone, so obviously something is getting done."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday May 7th, 2020 7:55:35 PM

Akuno can't help but be covered in an aura of smugness. Leadership, eh? THAT's what these people need? Someone of noble mind and heritage to lead them into the future? Well! Lucky for them! She stands up with a flourish.

"Greetings! I am.."

Then she watches as Grindar and Lil start to take control of the situation, maneuvering the rabble towards recognizing the methods of Smithera. Smithera, who was from here and already had the trust of the adventurers, and was probably a great choice.

" .. sitting down comfortably, thank you! I have no need of anything at this time!", she announces awkwardly before sitting back down next to Sol. She picks up an unfortunate unseen servant, and starts nibbling on it nervously.

Grinder, Say That Again Please [DM Jerry]
Thursday May 7th, 2020 10:59:53 PM
Jarl looks to have totally ignored everything Grinder said and keeps staring down Granvil stepping in front of Smithera to prevent her. In a low dangerous voice he says, "Apologize to Smithera."

Granvil is grabbed by others and held on either side. He tries to break free, but they take him to the ground. "Let go of me!!!! What right do you have to...."

Smithera, one hand on her eye, says, “Did no one hear what Grinder said?”

Jarl says, “Granvil, you were rude taking the stick and you hit Smithera in the eye. YOU HIT HER IN THE EYE!”

Smithera softly says, “Let Granvil go. Everyone calm down.”

When Thorondir says ,”We can’t get out of her soon enough for my liking,” Jarl reacts , “I don’t know why you are traveling with our….. Group…… questers….. Heroes…… adventurers……, but if….. what DO we call you? You’re not ours…….And I forget what I was going to say….and…”

Smithera, squinting with one eye says, “Grinder, say that again please.”

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday May 7th, 2020 11:23:48 PM
Bigby moves over to Thorondir and affirms that he is part of the group. Thorondir is a part of our pack. He knows and respect the land and it's creatures. In a place like the Sargrass we need to learn to be more like Thorondir and we need to work together or we die here. Take it from me who almost died in the mouth of a giant frog..Bigby thinks off to that moment. Ribbit...ribbit. Darkness surrounding. Where are you Wolfgang. Come back Bigby...ahem where was I? If you got a problem with him, then you got a problem with me.[/b] Bigby felt very angry for a moment and then tries to calm down. He almost felt ferral for a moment. Wonder if this is what Wolfgang feels at times. He rubs Wolfgangs fur to calm. Bigby decides to let the good speakers to make up for his clumsiness in speech. He looks over to Thorondir to let him know that he's got his support.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday May 8th, 2020 3:25:03 AM
Sol, stunned and sitting somewhat slack jawed because of the ruckus moves up behind Grindar, as if to show solidarity. He attempts to look tough, but doesn't have the physicality of it. He hopes that the "adventurers" showing a united front would help lend weight to Grindar's words.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday May 8th, 2020 5:25:03 AM
Relieved that things have, at least for the moment, calmed down, and he isn't going to have to punch anyone's lights out, Grindar answers Smithera, "I said that one boat isn't the answer to all our cares and woes, and one band of adventures isn't either, we all must do our part, play our role as it were. Smithera has taken up the role as de facto leader due to the fact that no one else would, and she deserves our respect, as she has done in admirable job, that said, I propose we set up a formal leadership chain, a government, if you will. Let us form a council of trustworthy individuals, with one person leading them. the council members should be elected by the people, as well as the council leader.

He then turns to his friends and quietly says, "You know we really need a name for our pack, Something with some real shade to it, something easy to remember".

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday May 8th, 2020 5:26:26 AM
fixed header

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday May 8th, 2020 4:20:09 PM
Speak with Animals
Thorondir reaches out a hand and strokes Wolfgang's neck as he talks to it in wolf. "You have chosen a good companion, and you hunt well."

Jarl has been speaking for a while, and once he mentions he forgot what he was going to say, Thorondir says to him "I am Thorondir, I am not yours or anyones. I speak for those without a voice, at least that most can understand. I am sent to watch over the trees and animals, so that none take advantage or think they may own what is not something that isn't theirs to own. I am no hero, but I will help where I can."

He goes back to stroking Wolfgangs neck and nods to Bigby.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday May 8th, 2020 5:51:40 PM

Akuno looks at Smithera a bit confused, then starts racking her own brain. What did Grindar say that was so important? She recalls his words, brightening up. She snaps her fingers in excitement as she catches on.

----------------

"Yea! And he said if you want to fight someone, fight him!" With a whoop of excitement, she balls a tiny fist and punches Grindar on the arm, followed by swinging an unseen servant at his chest, gripped like a pillow, where it impacts with a gentle piff.

When the rumpus ends, she stands victorious over the room full of people, who now exalt her as supreme leader.

----------------------

With a sigh, Akuno lets her daydream end. She looks at the unseen servant she's been squeezing and whispers to it. "If only."

She still didn't really feel connected enough to start offering suggestions for a name. She didn't even know if they would drag her along on their next business. She was sort of thrust upon them, now that she thought about it. She didn't even know what these adventurers were all about. She pieced together they had been helping this place, and they seemed like a good lot. Maybe they'd help her too?

She'd have to talk to 'Lil or Caelwyn when this meeting was over.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=18 ;
Friday May 8th, 2020 9:24:29 PM
Caelwyn smiles to himself. He is undoubtedly skilled in diplomacy, but Grindar's intimidating persona was exactly what they had needed a moment ago. He steps up and adds his voice to Grindar's, encouraging calm.

"Grindar is right, my friends. We cannot afford strife among ourselves, if our colony is to survive. We must come up with a logical process for organizing ourselves going forward. We can do this, but only if we stick together!"

Diplomacy 18

Land of Confusion by Genesis [DM Jerry]
Friday May 8th, 2020 10:33:12 PM
Smithera says, "I like the idea of a council. But how many? For how long? I really don't want to be "in charge because no one else wants to."

One woman says, "Council of 7. For one year. Each year one new member is added. One leaves the council."

Another woman says, "Too many, too long."

Jarl says, "How many of us are there?"

"What do we do if someone else hurts someone in our community?"

Freakshow says, "How much of a council is too much?"

Nicephorus motions at Akuno and says, "BigbyWolf, is she part of your pack now too?"

Conversation continues. Groups form, reform, some withdraw watching.

Eventually, Smithera calls everyone together and says, "I don't really remember why this all started, though I still feel "how" it got started. Continue talking. Tomorrow night, we'll have a "grand circle" and vote.

"I think first order of business is how large of a council."
"Second is how long will they serve."
"Third seems to be...well I'm not sure....so we'll just go that far. I guess I"m still defacto leader by default until we vote on those two things. Oh yeah. Third will be to vote...somehow."

She smiles in a self-deprecating way. "Told ya I wasn't a natural leader a year ago."

After a moment, she continues"I'm glad our friends are home. I"m glad we're getting a boat. I'm not glad my eye hurts. I think it's affecting my brain."

Granvil mumbles, "Sorry."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday May 8th, 2020 11:26:17 PM
Bigby looks over to Akuno and considers for a moment what she said about him wearing a leash. Bigby pauses for a second and then snaps too. "Of Course she is. She may be different, but she is of our pack." He looks over at Akuno affirmatively.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Saturday May 9th, 2020 4:21:59 AM
Sol watches and listens, and starts to think about possible options.

Once they're to one side he mentions it to Smithera

"I have an idea, if you'd like to mention it tomorrow, if you feel it's good enough? A council of 7, with each serving a one year term. However, for three seats, the term is one year. For two more seats the first term is 6 months, and for the final two seats the term is 18 months. This will allow people to serve for a longer period and staggers the resetting of the council, but isn't too long over all. I would suggest choosing the council, then having the Council themselves randomly determine which seats are short and which are long."

((Knowledge (Nobility) To try and make this sound good/work as a plan - [roll]1d20+12[/roll]))

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+12=21 ;
Saturday May 9th, 2020 4:22:35 AM
((OoC - Sorry rolled as if I was on a forum out of habit! Knowledge (Nobility) is 21))

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Saturday May 9th, 2020 10:45:53 AM
'Lil starts havin' flashbacks to Hook City and it's oppressive bureaucracy. She didn't much care for politics and whatnot, but knew that this was real important to figure out. She listens to Sol's idea. Surely someone, SOMEONE, had some experience with government.

"This is a conundrum what's been solved before, everyone. Let's not go reinventing the wheel. Aukno, you're royalty, yea? You got any experience with this?" She pauses. "Either way, I think it's best if we don't overthink it."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Saturday May 9th, 2020 11:53:58 AM

Akuno, having just sat down, stays seated. Legs crossed, proper and ladylike, she patiently kicks one foot and and over. When Bigby mentions her as one of them, a tiny shiver goes through her. Her little foot starts kicking even faster, and petticoats and ruffles start swishing.

"Hmph. Considering you tried to kiss me last night, Bigby Wolf, I should be running for the hills!" It might take Bigby a moment to catch it, but she used his name here. Not mutt or dogboy or any other dismissive nickname. She grinds her knuckles into her temples, trying to squeeze a decision out of her brain. "Fine, I'll be a part of the pack. Someone with upbringing has got to help this wild bunch when they find a proper city. It wouldn't be fair to make them rely on Caelwyn all the time." She looks down at her kicking feet, and tries to hide her blush with her parasol. "And besides, you guys seem nice and really strong and there's a lot of places in the Sargrass I still have to go and I don't think I could do it alone and.. and.. She lets the thought trail off. "So thanks for the affirmation, Bigb..Bigb...dog breath."

------

When 'Lil asks her a direct question, she snaps out of her momentary weakness. She laughs nervously. "Of course I am! Heh.. heh.." She grins big, with one fang poking out. "Now! They've already done the hard part. They have a leader. Now that leaders job is to make sure that even if she doesn't relate to everyone, she has a goals that everyone can relate to!"

She thinks a bit about council sizes. "I'm not a big fan of too large of a council. The point of being a queen or king is that you know how to lead better than everyone else, so why dilute your power with people who know less than you? Advisors are one thing, but another group who can block you is another."

She holds up three fingers. "Community, Defense, and Spirituality." She ticks off each finger as she talks. "Those are the things a kingdom needs in order to survive. I'd elect a council person to each of those concepts, and let them decide how many assistants they need within reason. Then I'd work with them to establish guidelines and rules that apply to their domain.

She frowns. "And if you are worried about democracy over monarchy, then allow each of them a one third vote. If all of them, people you trust, vote to stop an idea, then as leader, you should figure out why they think its a poor choice."

Akuno continues. "As the kingdom grows, it needs other things too, like councilpersons for war, espionage, finance, relations, culture, magical knowledge, and internal stability. For for right now, just the big three are all you need." Finally, she adds. "I'd also advise they hold that position until you lose confidence in them." She looks at Sol with an apologetic smile, then to Lil and Smithera. "Well, you've certainly got choices! I don't have as much faith in a fair council as Sol does I think. If you ask me, it takes consolidation of power to get anything done."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Saturday May 9th, 2020 7:41:01 PM
Thorondir sits and contemplates. Finally he says "I don't know this town or what would work here. I would be willing to speak with any domestic animals you have, see if perhaps they have suggestions to make their life better. My experience is people who treat the animals right will treat each other right. You find someone mistreating them, and sure enough they will turn on their neighbor as well."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday May 10th, 2020 11:59:12 PM
Caelwyn glares at Granvil. "The only way this will work is if we respect each other and rely on words cooperation - at all costs, we must keep our tempers in check."

He turns to Smithra. "Let me have a look at that, maybe I can help." If necessary, he will Lay on Hands to heal her.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday May 11th, 2020 5:59:21 AM
Grindar keeps quiet for the moment. He has said his piece, and is glad that it seemed to have put the wheels into motion. He knows he is no diplomat, and certainly no politician, and is well aware that what comes next will require some of both. So he smiles and walks over to Thorondir and says, "I agree that people who treat animals well, tend to be a good sort, though you will find few domestic animals here. Most were killed along with a large portion of the people who had brought them, shortly after they and my friends arrived in the Sargrass. I wasn't with them on the ship that brought them, but quickly ran into the same resistance, a tribe of savage halflings who preferred to dine on the flesh of the sentient. After defeating their chief, the Manfri arrived, and guided us here, the original location of Rattledam. When we arrived, their was nothing, but with the help of some locals, most notably, Freakshow, the harvester elf, Needle the climber, and Ahyoka, the Manfri, we, or I suppose I should say they, since most of what you see now was built while we were away, have accomplished much.

Small Town by John Cougar Mellencamp [DM Jerry]
Monday May 11th, 2020 11:09:23 PM
Smithera's eye is swelling shut and hurts her. The Lay on hands takes care of it. "Caelwyn, thanks. That feels ever so much better." She gives you one of her huge smiles with dimples and a hug.

Jarl smiles and shakes his head. "We're barely a town. And I don't want to live in a Kingdom."

Freakshow says, "Seven is too many. Different lengths of terms sounds too complicated for a town. How about 3. And one gets replaced each year?"

Meanwhile, Nicephorus hesitates at BigbyWolf's answer about their pack and then bows graciously and withdraws.

As this discussion seems likely to continue for some time, Ahyoka the Manfri and Needle the Climber talks for a second and then Needle heads to Smithera and Ahyoka heads to Grinder.

Ahyoka says, "Can I talk to a couple of you. Needle and I have an idea concerning something completely different."

He walks away from the townsfolk to the edge of town and waits for needle to arrive with Smithera.

Ahyoka nods at Needle and they sit. Needle pulls out a greyish piece of grass about an inch around and about a foot long. In his stilted high pitched voice he says, "I think you've heard of it, but have you ever seen any of this?" He lays it on the ground.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday May 12th, 2020 12:12:50 AM

Akuno watches Needle, Ahyoka, and Smithera sit around and talk to each other. Slowly, unseen servant under her arm, she tiptoes away from all the people she doesn't know. She directs her floating disk near her again, and begins arranging pillows on the disc.

If she was going to be sitting around watching other people talk for awhile, she was going to be comfortable.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday May 12th, 2020 6:05:42 AM
Grindar looks at the blade of grass Needle reveals, and shakes his head, "I thought I saw every type of grass one can see in this place, but I'm not sure if I've seem that particular variety".

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday May 12th, 2020 8:25:09 AM
'Lil thinks Freakshow's right on. Maybe someday they'll need more folks at the top, right now one head dude and three councildudes would suffice.

Dude being a gender neutral term, as evidenced by Akuno being one'a her dudes.

She ain't got no clue what that grass is, and says so. "Yea, I ain't sure what I'm lookin' at here, dude. It important?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday May 12th, 2020 1:01:09 PM
Thorondir looks numb as Grindar explains the history and killing of the animals and many of the people.
"They killed them all? Why not keep the breeding stock, killing all makes no sense."
He looks around the room at the few who are left.
"So you killed these savage haflings? I could help avenge if still needed."

Thorondir wanders over and looks at the piece of grass that Needle holds up. He thinks back on what he has learned, can any of it help here he wonders.

[OOC] I don't know if druid nature sense can help him with this?

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday May 12th, 2020 4:32:00 PM
Bigby listened to Grindar retell their tales of woes. He had forgotten about the cannibals and the horses. Those were dark times for a crew with bright ideas and hopes. Hopefully, things have started to show some more positive vibes for this crew. He just observes and listens in.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday May 12th, 2020 5:36:45 PM
Sol keeps his mouth shut, as his idea was met with a less than stellar response. He does look more with renewed interest.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday May 12th, 2020 11:42:13 PM
Caelwyn is happy to assist the injured. He helps anyone else who might be hurt, and then turns his attention to the conversation between Ahoyka and the others.

Skin of a Rapke [DM Jerry]
Wednesday May 13th, 2020 12:39:54 AM
The discussions about leadership continues.

Needle sits, waits for the rest to do the same. He smiles at Thorondir motions him to sit beside him. When settled he says, "This is Steelgrass." It has not been shaped or hardened yet. There's a large patch about 7 miles west of here. I spotted it myself.

Ahyoka sheepishly smiles and lays a cured and oiled Rapke hide on the ground. "I found this in one of our bulbgrass sanctuaries. It is very old." He lays out a skin of a rapke and unrolls it. I has been oiled and preserved. It is a map of a town, but someone has added lines all over it. The entry at the bottom though is unmistakable. "Rattledam Dome."

Ahyoka pauses, waiting on their response. "I'd intended to show this to the whole town tonight. I changed my mind. I am an outsider, and don't understand your ways. I leave it to you to use this as you will and well decide who to share... No instructions, just this map. I think it shows where they put the Steelgrass. It does not show what grasses they weaved between these beams. I'd heard that Rattledam and one other village had a dome in the previous age."

Smithera says, "Rattledam had a dome? This is a map of what the town used to look like? Her mouth hangs open. She keeps touching her eye. "No it doesn't hurt anymore, but it feels like it should?" She turns. Several other townsfolk are looking your way. "The jig is up. Headed back."

As the walks back to the townsfolk, Smithera says, "I'm going to retire for the evening. Before I go, please let me say one final thing. We need this council. She turns to the adventurers, seeming to focus on 'Lil, but also gives Akuna an appraising glance.

"A couple of weeks ago, as I'm sure you noticed, we grew--as you can see. A second group came from Hook City through DreMoria. There are now 54 of us. They seemed to make it better than we did when we came. A group of 8 sailors and their captain, headed back.

"I said to send no more for at least a year and even then, we might not have room for them. Sent it in writing. If they sent more immediately, we should have several months before they could even think of arriving. Perhaps, if we're lucky, a few years.

Turning back to the townsfolk, she says, "So we need a simple council. Small, because we're....small. Easy. It needs to pull us together, not divide us as our discussion tonight seemed to do at times." She rubs her eye.

"Sleep well." She departs for her tent.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday May 13th, 2020 6:14:13 AM
Grindar remembers his time in the halfing's holding cage, shudders a bit at the thought, then assures Thorondir that the halflings were dealt with, and shares the druid's confusion as to why they killed all the animals.

Looking at the map, Grindar wonders out loud, "Is their a need for the dome still, and if so what do we need to do?" Always the warrior, he marvels at the steelgrass for a bit, and then asks Ahyoka, "Is that the same stuff your people are famous for using to make weapons and armor?"

Grindar vows he will do what he can to help make the council a reality, and wishes Smithera good night. he turns to his friends and says, "I suppose we should follow or defacto leader's example and hit the sack ourselves", He than heads towards their tent and curls up in his bed roll, with Llew by his side.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=27 ;
Wednesday May 13th, 2020 10:23:38 AM
'Lil wonders why Smithera seemed to focus on'er when she talked. Did Smithera think 'Lil didn't agree with her?

Sense motive 27 - Why'd Smithera focus on her?

"I'm gonna say we want that dome for two reasons, dude. A: this place is real inhospitable. B: It's part'a Rattledam. It'd be like rebuilding Hook City after some disaster, but not rebuildin' the bridge. That dome's parta the history of this place."

'Lil is super interested in that grass, though. She really wants some armor from the stuff. This chain she wore was not suited to this place, ya know? She decides to pay close attention over the next few days, to see what's necessary to harvest the stuff. She hopes Needle and Freakshow will be willing to help her out.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday May 13th, 2020 12:19:51 PM

Akuno notices Smithera just a smidge too late. She's currently engaged in some powerful laziness, kicked back in her floating pillow-disc, looking at a picture book of maidens in dresses and dashing men in suits. Under Smitheras appraisal, Akuno jumps with a guilty panic, and nearly upends her floating disc.

"Sweet dreams! Don't worry! We will do the heroic, uh, thing to satisfactory completion!"! Akuno cringes at her own delivery. What a day.

She pats her servant on the head affectionately. "She's in a nice mood.", thinks the servant. It cuddles up to Akuno, who quickly ties a rope around its waist and points to 'Lil. With an audible sigh, the servant drags her the ten feet across the room.

"That Smitheras pretty wise. Sometimes the best choice is to just polish your coal. After awhile, someone else will see it as a diamond. That's typically when you get annexed by a larger country, or a small country asks to get annexed by you, I guess. Either way, there comes a point when a little village has to grow up. It can either be planned and groomed, or happen naturally. Seems like Smithera and her folks wants the latter."

Akuno sits in quiet reflection for a moment, then shoves her picture book in 'Lils hands. "Hey hey! For something not boring, 'Lil, I think this one would look good on you!". She flips to a page with what basically appears to be a court dress with tiny armored plates sewn into the shoulders, the hips, and the arms. "The design here is for Lady Knights, whose sense of duty often prevents them from appearing in full court dress. The plates are non-painted metal, and that grey looks very stylish with primary reds, yellows, greens and blues! The plates protect anywhere a normal strike would aim, but their utility just adds to the nobility of the wearer while keeping with the spirit of a formal event!" Akuno is basically gushing. She flips to another page of a suit with similar plates, but they are sewn in behind the fabric and not visible. It has wide billowing sleeves at the shoulder, as well as several open areas in the back and sides of the legs. "I think this one would look great on Bigby! He doesn't wear the heavy armor that the slits were made for, but he's got fur and I figure he would get hot in normal attire..."

She prattles on for awhile longer, showing suits for the rest of the men in the party until eventually, at some point, she winds up snoring face down in her book, snuggled onto her disc and squeezing an unseen servant like a bear.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday May 13th, 2020 1:02:34 PM
Bigby hears the words Rattledam Dome, and drifts off to a strange thought of gladiator fighting. two men enter, one man leaves. Bigby snaps to and laughs, that sounds like a plot to a bad story.

Bigby sees what Akuno suggests with armor and smiles. "thanks. Hey did you draw these?" asks Bigby to Akuno

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday May 13th, 2020 4:48:12 PM
Thorondir is pleased he has been invited to sit and discuss the plant Needle has.
"Steelgrass, I have heard of it but haven't seen it in its natural state. That would be very useful, we should go and collect some I think."

He agrees with Smithera "A large influx of peoples will ruin any place not ready for such. I agree you should limit growth, perhaps restrict migrants to fill needed skills." He ponders a moment though and adds "Perhaps I gave bad council. Migrants will strengthen your community, it is a difficult balance that I am not able to give good council on."

Questions [DM Jerry]
Wednesday May 13th, 2020 10:25:48 PM
Grinder honestly questions the need for a dome and asks about Steelgrass armor and weapons. He comments further on the importance of a council.

Ahyoka says, "Yes."

Lil wonders why Smithera focuses on her. She thinks about it for a time. Two possibilities occur. She wants a friend. She thinks 'Lil is a leader and wants to see her reactions and hear her thoughts."

Ahyoka adds, "My people have kept an eye on your people while you were gone. Nothing serious has happened so far. My people have the secret to Steelgrass. They will help make the steel, but not reveal the secret of tempering it for different uses.

"A Steelgrass dome helps, but is not enough. Who protects the town when you are gone? Right now they depend on you."

Needle says, "My people have the skill to climb and set it in place. We climb. What will you do when mutated animals come calling while you are on your boat? Who will protect your people?"

Akura shows her fashion picture book to 'Lil and Bigby looks on.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday May 13th, 2020 11:28:02 PM
Caelwyn thinks about Needles' comment. "It won't do to have a single party of adventurers permanently protecting the city...we won't be enough, if something major comes up. We will need to train more of us to protect ourselves, in order to be ready. That way others could come and go on the boat as needed for supply pickups, migrant shipments, etc."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday May 14th, 2020 2:57:06 AM
Sol nods at Caelwyn's words.

"Yes, we need to create some sort of militia, a group of trained men and women who can come to arms should they be needed, however I have no skill in training warriors."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday May 14th, 2020 6:30:32 AM
Grindar scratches his head for a moment, deep in thought, "The need for a dome makes a lot of sense when you explain it like that, but so does a well armed and trained militia. Caelwyn, you, I, and maybe Lil are probably the best ones of us to teach weapon training, but it would be good to take stock of Rattledam's current population, and see if there are any that may have some skills, and make more consistent teachers than us, since it seems as though we will be away a fair amount. I would say that the raising of a militia should be one of the first things our council does once it's formed.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday May 14th, 2020 9:22:10 AM
'Lil looks over Akuno's papers with something like interest. In the back of'er mind, the fact that she keeps referrin' to herself and Cae as knights bugs her. Both'a them served Domi, and both'a them had signed a geas to some old rich dude, but they weren't part'a no court.

"It's a real pretty dress, but out there in the grass it's gonna get snagged on everything." She flips through the magazine, looking for something feminine with pants. She'll share it if such a get-up exists in the thing. "This is more useful out here. Flowy stuff tends to get caught. This chain mail ain't much better, though, and it gets heavy and hot out there in the grasses. I'm lookin' to change it real fast."

She hands the magazine. "Anyway, I ain't a knight, lady or otherwise. Don't got much gumption to go settling myself into a court somewhere. Kinda why I came out here in the first place." She opens her arms wide. "Back in Hook City, there was rules for everything. Not out here, not yet at least."

At the subject of training a militia, 'Lil don't get too excited at hearing her name as responsible for training them up. She sighs; Grindar was right, though. 'Lil was qualified to teach basic weapon use and had the patience for it. No, that's not right. She didn't have the patience for it, she had the self control to keep her frustrations in check. That ain't the same thing.

"I can put out the word for morning worship services. Folks who show up to praise the god of bravery would be a good pool to recruit from, ya know?" Plus, she adds silently, it's kinda her job. Her least favorite part of her job, but part of it nonetheless.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday May 14th, 2020 9:42:07 AM
Bigby thinks about a militia. Hmmm, yes those three would be good at helping with that. There was a time when Bigby would have volunteered to help. He was good at charging with a spear. That's right I used to use a spear. It seems since coming to the Sargrass, Bigby's relied more and more on his natural abilities. Wonder if Wolfgang had any influence on that. Am I becoming more like him? Or him more like me? Who knows. Perhaps we are becoming one. Hopefully this militia thing works. "Good idea Grindar. The pack needs to learn to defend itself. But not all fighting is done with weapons that seam obvious. I know not many have claws like me, but it's good to improvise with what abilities each has. Let me know what you need from me. Till then I"m going hunting. Hey, you village people, if anyone wants to learn to hunt, come with me. I'll show you how to be responsible with the hunt. Thorondir knows too." Bigby heads off talking to whoever may or may not go along. He talks regrdless if anyone follows. "First rule of hunt club. You don't take more than you need."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday May 14th, 2020 10:17:33 AM

When conversation turns to things like defenses and militias, Akuno rolls over with a grumble. Unfortunately for her, her discs and servants don't last all that long yet. Her spell hits the four hour mark, and dumps her unceremoniously onto the floor.

She murmurs and rubs her sides. she thinks a bit about Lil's statement on fashion. "I wouldn't be caught dead without a right and proper amount of lace and ribbon.", she grumbles. Odd, that that is her first thought on waking. Then again, is it so strange? Every power this young sorceress had manifested so far all fed into her fetish for fairy tales and luxury.

-----

"It wouldn't do for you all to responsible for all the training. Besides, there's a difference between being capable and being able to teach it. Maybe we should seek out to hire a master at arms to come and whip the people here into shape? If we are going to be gallivanting about the Sargrass, we can't keep putting the peoples training on hold." She remembers Granvils uncouth manners. "A teacher wouldn't be a bad idea either. Don't want all the kids and kittens out here growing up like Mr. Eye Puncher."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday May 14th, 2020 10:18:34 AM
This steelgrass sounds interesting, but isn't an immediate concern it seems. Something else is though, and Bigby knows what it is.

"Well, the steelgrass is something we should look into, but for now it appears it is time to hunt."

Thorondir follows Bigby. "Okay, I will hunt with Aewen in the sky. When you kick up small game we will stoop down and catch it. If I spot larger prey for you, I will let out a loud shriek and circle tightly over the game. If I spot something that may be a danger to you I will let out three large shrieks and circle over it."

Thorondir then wildshapes into an eagle and joins Aewen up in the sky. They renew their connection and then start to hunt.

Echoes by Pink Floyd [DM Jerry]
Thursday May 14th, 2020 11:23:11 PM
Ahyoka shrugs. He listens carefully to each response to his offer of steelgrass on behalf of the Manfri people. He turns away, rolls up the old map of the ancient Rattledam, and walks away into the grass. "I wish you luck and survival."

With a look of shock and dismay, Needle stands frozen, his head pivoting between the departing figure of the Manfri and the adventurers.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday May 15th, 2020 8:14:07 AM
Seeing Ahyoka leaving, Grindar quickly stands and attempts to follow her. He pleads with her, "Stop Please Miss Ahyoka! your presence, council and assistance is of great value to us! I apologize if we got off topic, but the truth is a militia will be needed, however, so will the dome, and that is something we can never achieve without the aid of you and your people. I believe I can speak for my friends when I say, we are willing to do whatever it takes to secure Rattledam, and protect it's people, whether it be to train a militia, harvest and haul steelgrass, or both, but without the help of the Manfri, and for that matter, the Climbers, this project is doomed before it even begins! Please stay Miss Ahyoka, and tell us what you need from us. You have stated that your people would be willing to help with the dome structure, but are unwilling to temper the grass for other purposes, and that's fine. I won't lie a breastplate, or some other such thing, made from steelgrass would be a amazing gift, but a gift is only a gift if it comes from the heart of the giver, and anything else would either be a monetary transaction, or theft, neither of which are appealing to me".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday May 15th, 2020 10:53:10 AM
Seeing Ahyoka leave, Bigby wonders if he'd done it again. If he had checked out too soon in the conversaition. and he so wanted to hunt. Things just make more sense that way. Before leaving, Bigby suggests to Thorondir that they wait, and that we need to see why Ahyoka is leaving and then they could hunt. "our pack needs us first. Ahyoka, I apologize, I'm not normally one for these talks. And I lose intererst quickly with these things. I do trust my friends here and I think they just want to protect the people here and this is what they know. You know these lands better than we do. You know its ways. What can we do? We need your help and will do what we can to be one with the land. I will try my best to do my part." That's how it sounded in Bigby's head as he attempted to 'diplomacize,' but words didn't always come out of Bigbys mouth the way he thought it in his head.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday May 15th, 2020 1:19:02 PM

Akuno watches the little "man-free" leave, in what she recognizes to be a fit. She knows, because she has fits all the time. She tries to think about what upset him.

Ahyoka made a statement. Needles asked a question.

Needles asked, "Who will protect the people while we are gone?", and people offered ways to teach the people to protect themselves.

Ahyoka offered an ancient map from a storage bulb and mentioned that his people would be willing to forge collected grasses, but not reveal the secrets. Companions mentioned collecting the grasses, and how much they needed the Manfri, but no one ever said thank you... Akuno frowns. There wasn't much time, and it may already be too late. She dashes from her spot of luxury, leaving her picture book flying in the air. She skids to a stop where she saw Ahyoka walk into the grass, and looks at the ground. She was a princess, dangit, and this was beneath her. Why shouldn't the dog be groveling instead of her?

Then she thinks back to any one of her books about good and noble rulers. Any of them would do anything for their people, station aside. If she sought to be like the great rules of the past, she would need to remember that there was more to it than dresses and parties. She drops to her knees, putting her forehead on the dirt and her palms face down in front of her. "Ahyoka sama!", she shouts. "Thank you! Thank you for going through the trouble to produce your map! Thank you for offering it to us! Thank you for offering to sew the grasses! Thank you for helping the commoners of this camp! Thank you for not pointing out our rudeness and trying to allow us to save face! Please continue to help the people here, in your own judgement of what is best!"

She wouldn't ask for forgiveness here, because that would be like a child saying sorry to his parents only after he lost his dessert. Everyone knew he was doing it because he wanted the sweets, not because he was contrite.

She holds the pose until either Ahyoka returns, or one hour passes, whichever comes first.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday May 15th, 2020 5:45:39 PM
'Lil, also, doesn't see what caused Ahyoka's reaction. They asked a question, and her and her dudes started talking it over. She watches as Akuno and Grindar speak up, but chooses not to add to their pleas.

This was an important moment, and 'Lil didn't want to set up New Rattledam down the path of being dependent on these folks for survival. Best to start on equal footing and keep it that way.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday May 15th, 2020 9:04:19 PM
Sol just stares slack jawed... he had no idea what the party may have done to offend Ahyoka, but that was always his problem wasn't it? He struggled to understand how other people worked... oh well.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday May 15th, 2020 10:47:45 PM
Thorondir circles up as an eagle as he hears Bigby call for a halt in the hunt. After checking with Aewen, he apologizes to his eagle friend: "I am sorry Aewen, people are strange creatures. Something has happened that I don't understand, I need to go back. Go hunt and find a meal, I will return later."

Thorondir glides back down and his eagle shape morphs into an elf just as he lands.
"I hope I didn't cause this, I don't understand people well or know the customs of this town. Tell me what I can do to fix this if you know."

What I See [DM Jerry]
Friday May 15th, 2020 11:18:04 PM
Needle speaks softly. "Ahyoka offered you the greatest secret of her people. She put her honor on the line to be allowed to offer it to you. I think she expected great gratitude. But she did not let you know the significance of her offering this to you."

"I think....I think that she sees a people that do not know who they are. She thinks you will die without the help of her people.

"I see two want to hunt in the Sargrass for fun and glory instead of survival. I see one acts like a spoiled brat and takes pride in that. I see your town talking of a council and your appointed leader gets a black eye. I see that these things are not your fault. They just are. I see that you have been lucky so far and need seasoning. If you survive, that will come. If you don't, they will only remember the open spot where they grass will not grow."

"I will go after her. But I will only find her if she lets me. Even after many months here, you are strange to me. Without help I wonder if your town will survive."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Saturday May 16th, 2020 3:44:37 AM

Akuno keeps her head down as long as she promised, then almost literally hops to her feet. She stares into the grass for awhile, and then turns back to the others.

"Well, we won't get the grass for now, I guess. Anyone have a plan b?" With a sigh, she re-summons a disc, arranges her pillows, and plops down. She adjusts her temperate control, finds her book about fancy dresses, arranges her drink, brushes out her tail and snuggles into her little ride. Only then, does her face takes a serious cast.

"Hey Needle. Don't call 'Lil a spoiled brat. It's not polite."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Sunday May 17th, 2020 11:08:19 AM
'Lil's face hardens. "Needle, you do what you want, but where I come from, grownups don't stomp away when they don't immediately get the reaction they expect. Let her take her ball and go home. That ain't the behavior of someone who came here with goodness in their heart wantin' to help folks." Her mouth opens a few more times as she starts to say something, then thinks better of it. "That's all I gotta say on the matter. We all put our lives on the line every bloody day out here without expectin' folks to thank us."

She pats Akuno behind the ears as she leaves. "Thanks, dude. Maybe work on your introspection though."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Sunday May 17th, 2020 11:48:26 PM
Glory? What is this person talking about? Thorondir has an expression of surprise and anger.

"I was told the town needed help getting food. I don't think you know or understand me. But that is to be expected, as I do not know or understand you either. I will no longer offer my service for hunting, Aewen and I will hunt for our own food. I have everything I need at the moment. If you require my services in the future, you have but to ask."
Thorondir bows to Needle and walks away. Glancing over at Bigby with a shrug.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday May 18th, 2020 1:24:14 AM
Well Bigby thought, he tried. At the end of the day that's all one can say. As for hunting that was his thing that gave him meaning when things or people didn't make sense. He wouldn't apologize anymore than he had. He looks to Thorondir and shrugs as well. He looks to remainder of the party. "now what?"

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, after sunrise
Tuesday May 19th, 2020 12:18:31 AM

After an uncomfortable end to a tense meeting, there is nothing for everyone to do but sleep.

The next morning, Smithira hosts the group at breakfast. "Good morning. How are you all doing? Sorry for everything that happened last night. I heard about the parts I missed.", she greets everyone, with only a hint of exasperation. She serves cold but tasty sausages and some sort of porridge. "Can't say I'm thrilled with how it went, but you've got the gist of what we're facing." She also serves a thick tea. Opinions of it vary, but the powdered grasses sink to the bottom when you let it sit too long.

The gist of the conversation is that there are several things the town needs to be done, and she'd like you to pick one or two.

It would help if there were someone to drill a town guard. "An' going back to Hook City for sergeants is out. It's too far. We've heard Zaran City is closer, although it's on the other side of the plains an' we don't know where." On the other hand, the hunters in town are ready to defend against the odd rapke or two.

Needle and Ahyoka are keen on building a dome. Smithira isn't sure. They don't have the expertise, and the purpose of the dome is for protection from the bugs. As annoying as the bugs are, they've been kept under control. Someone would have to enlist help from the Manfri and Climbers for that project to happen.

Smithira wants Sprocket to meet Virgil, and maybe even help with construction of the ship. That means getting Sprocket to the Stone Temple. You're the only ones in town who've made that trip yet.

"Taggert was talking to me this morning about your friend Akuno. He's worried that Freakshow an' Needle think she's white hands." Taggert -- of course -- likes her. Oddly enough, he also thinks Ahyoka disagrees with the other insiders.

Most folks in town accept Smithira as leader. A few wanted Sprocket, but he backed Smithira and made it known he'd be happier with her leading. Broag would like to be leader, but no one else wants to deal with his temper. "And there's those like Granvil, who aren't about to lead but will complain about whoever does." (You're not sure how much of that statement stems from last night's altercation.) But perhaps she should organize a council.

"So you see, there's things to do."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday May 19th, 2020 2:25:20 AM
Sol listens, still reeling from last nights events. He wished he knew how to fix all these issues... but he wasn't so big-headed as to believe he had all the answers... however, at the moment, he'd settle for having one.

"Well... I know a little about governing bodies... not much, but enough to perhaps help. Though my suggestion wasn't exactly taken with open arms last night. I cannot hunt, and I cannot drill, I am not sure what else I can do to help other than explain how I have seen other settlements run, and you can decide if any of my explanations are worth using."

He shrugs before going back to his breakfast in slightly dour silence.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday May 19th, 2020 5:54:22 AM
"I would be happy to help run drills, and train up a decent town guard, or militia if you like, but if you feel the need to get Sprocket to the Stone Temple then I suppose our pack will have to be the pilot. (sorry, couldn't help myself) It may be true that Akuno may be a white hand at the moment, but I believe their may be some moonshade in her, just waiting to come to the surface, time will tell I guess.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday May 19th, 2020 3:37:24 PM

Akuno joins a grumpy looking Sol during breakfast. She still isn't quite keen on making any suggestions to these people because she's clearly an outsider. Still, she was invited into the particular group of heroes by Grindar, so that was good enough for her.

Sge sniffs the sausage and finds it acceptable. She tastes the porridge, and quickly sets about a series of prestidigitation spells until she finds a flavor she likes. The tea is greatly appreciated, a hint of civility in a boorish place.

She eats happily and with a smile. It seemed some people around here needed cheering up. She scoots in by the wizard and whispers, like she's plotting with a fellow conspirator. "Ney, Sol. I wanted to say I liked your ideas last night. They were good ones, I just think that a monarchy is the most stable way to rule. But between us, I'm not sure this place is ready for anything like what you and I had to offer, and I think we might have been a little above their heads." She leans away, looking about suspiciously. "Yessir, these sausages sure do taste great. It doesn't take a ruling body of trusted persons and a system of checks and balances to see that, right Sol?"

-----

She overhears Grindar use her name. Her head pops up, cat ears twitching. Eager to please, she excuses herself from the wizard and makes her way to Smithera and Grindar. She offers the most exemplary of curtsies towards the former.

"Hello! I'm Akuno. We haven't really met yet, but I'm here from (name of last town I was in)! I was helping there when I was told I should follow this lot for awhile. That's how I came here." Akuno spots some grasses attached to her gloves and frowns before flicking them off. Then she spots more grasses, and there's a tiny whirlwind of picking and flicking before she snaps her fingers, and her dress is quite suddenly grass free through some strange magical effect.

"I'm sorry you took an elbow in the eye. The burden of leadership can be brutal." She nods in a manner that says she understands that particular burden well. She looks up at Grindar. Being small, she looks up at most people, actually. "Anything I can help with? Just say the word, and an army of summoned servants and monsters await your beck and call." She thinks for a moment. "By army, I mean no more than six unseen servants."And then. "And by monsters, I mean anything found on a low level Summon Monster spell." She looks into the grasses around her, then frowns."For about 30 seconds each." She looks down, and smooths out one of her lace ribbons with her small, gloved hands. "Nailed it.", she thinks.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday May 19th, 2020 7:07:47 PM
Bigby listens as best he can. It seemed like a lot of talking around things. He trusted Grindar, Caelwyn, and 'Lil to figure these sort of things out. looks like hunting is out since it got him in trouble last time. Bigby just waits. Bigby just nods to Grindars suggestion

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday May 19th, 2020 11:36:39 PM
Caelwyn thinks for a moment, pondering Smithra's words. "Before I served Domi, I trained as a warrior and spent some time as a mercenary. I may be the most sensible candidate to gather and train a militia, so if you all agree I could start gathering support for that venture. I would also be happy to help prepare the council, if needed. My mother was a diplomat, so I know a bit about how to deal...tactfully with others."

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, mid-morning
Wednesday May 20th, 2020 12:05:17 AM

Sol seems most keen on helping set out the principles for governing this village of 50 or 60 adults. Smithira says his suggestion had merits, but seven seems like a lot of councillors. Akuno's suggestion of three might be a better number. Smithira needs to recognize the contributions of Ahyoka, Freakshow, and Needle. But while the community needs their knowledge, there are people who will not accept taking direction from them -- the insiders can teach and help, but should not appear to give orders.

When Grindar talks about taking Sprocket to the monks' village, Smithera asks what the group encountered on their last trip. As she recalls, the last time the party set out for the monk village, Thich estimated that the trip from Rattledam would take ten to twelve days. What should Rattledam provide to help?

Akuno calls attention to herself, reminding Smithera that she had also made suggestions the night before. As for defense, community, and spirituality being the cornerstones, Smithira's not so sure. Pantheon was the patron of the original Rattledam, but has no followers here now. The powers of the Sargrass periodically try to convert folks. Some, led by Sprocket, have taken to recognizing all three powers. That's as close as they have to a spiritual center. On the other hand, perhaps, if Grindar, 'Lil, and Caelwyn are willing -- and particularly if Caelwyn also takes a hand in training a militia -- they can talk to folks and recommend who would be best for the city to look to on matters of defense.

Smithera also would prefer to appoint councillors, but people might accept them better if they have a say in the matter.

Bigby and Thorondir silently listen to the discussion.

Sense motive DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {Although she hadn't been expecting it, Smithira would love to have Caelwyn on the council in charge of defense.}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=11 ;
Wednesday May 20th, 2020 2:42:53 AM
Sol shrugs when Akuno comes over.

"Possibly... I have found that single rulers tend to have a habit of allowing power to go to their heads. Having a group of elected officials that can remove that power helps keeps some level of balance."

When speaking to Smithera Sol nods.

"I was thinking seven in preparation for when Rattledam is bigger, but starting small would work. Begin with three, then once you hit say 500 hundred settlers, as and when that happens, you could add another two councillors. Then retain that pattern of for every two hundred settlers add to more councillors. Personally I would not go higher than perhaps seven or nine, any more than that and it may become hard to keep track of who is who and who has what responsibilities."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+2=18 ;
Wednesday May 20th, 2020 6:19:15 AM
Grindar listens intently to Smithera's words, but when she says there are no followers of Pantheon, he interrupts her saying, "I'm not suggesting that we make Pantheon the official patron of new Rattledam, but there is at least one person he who follows him". He is clearly referring to himself. He then adds, "Personally, I think people should be free to worship whomever they wish, and the idea of a town patron has always rubbed me the wrong way!"

When Smithera asks about what they encountered, Grindar says, "Well, the truth is we encountered multiple things that either tried to eat us, or just kill us for the fun of it. The Plains are a dangerous place, hence the need for the boat. As to what we need for the trip, I personally can't think of anything other than perhaps rations, which Bigby, Thorondir, and myself can supplement by hunting and gathering. I can't promise Sprocket's safety, or any of our own for that matter, as the Plains seem bent on killing anyone who travels upon its soil".

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20=10 ;
Wednesday May 20th, 2020 9:39:16 AM
Caelwyn agrees with Grindar. "We have followers of several deities here, we cannot simply pick one as patron. However, I do think encouraging the people by our example to serve the gods well cannot do anything but help strengthen our community."

It seems like training a militia might be a good place to get started, but Caelwyn waits to hear what others will say before he takes that job for himself.

He also adds his assent regarding counselors. "I would say three or five would be best for now. We do want people to feel that their voices are heard, but we cannot simply have mob rule at the moment, or the settlement will not survive. There will be too much chaos and dissension."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday May 20th, 2020 4:36:50 PM
"Yea, seems as good a time as any to enshrine freedom to worship who ya choose into the town charter. That said, I am a priest, and reckon I'll be founding a temple to Domi here just as soon as things settle a bit. We're gonna need a lot of bravery to get this place moving."

'Lil's said her piece about the number of government dudes in charge'a this place. She ain't keen on revisiting the issue any more than she has.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday May 20th, 2020 7:00:56 PM

When Smithera mentions the Sarr, Akuno is suddenly all ears. She seems a bit dissapointed at how quickly the subject moves on. "Ya know, I'd like to learn more about the Sarr. I've always thought that Maab created the beastfolk, but then I suddenly hear about the Sarr, and some people say IT created the beastfolk. I know there's more to religion than who made me, but it seems like a place to start." She shrugs. "I mean, I assume I'll just wind up adopting the official religion of my parents kingdom if they have one, or following their lead, but in the mean time it would be nice to have someone to pray to." She gives a weak smile. "I mean, at least then you know at least one person is listening to you."

Akuno lets a brief shadow pass over her face, then smiles big and stupid. "Anyways, I don't know what's best for the people here. Do we take Sprocket to Stone Temple? Or do we start training? I think it would be best to get that ship built first."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20=14 ;
Wednesday May 20th, 2020 8:58:21 PM
Bigby listens in to what Akuno says about the Sarr creating beastfolk and lifts an eyebrow (to the untrained eye it looks like his regular expression due to all the fur in his face). As for religion, "Let the people choose their faith. If someone wants to start a church maybe let them so long as it isn't required for the people to attend. Only if they want to." this was all in agreeance with what everyone else already had said. "I'm getting the sense they want you to help with the defense Caelwyn. That's all I got to say about that."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday May 20th, 2020 10:17:38 PM
Thorondir listens, but says: "Like I said before, towns and how they work isn't something I know about, or am even interested in. Sure you need a society, but most ills come from putting too many folks together in one place. I'm all for getting on to building the ship, and exploring a bit. But if you need to take time to help these folks then do what you need to. If you need my help let me know, but I don't know how I can help in any of the political situations here."

When it is time for a meal, Thorondir will go outside and wildshape into an eagle and join Aewen for a hunt. He plans to hunt for his meals, and doesn't want to take anything away from the folks in town.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, mid-morning
Thursday May 21st, 2020 12:00:43 AM

Sol, Akuno, and Smithera continue to talk governments for a while. Sol and Akuno are on opposite sides of a monachy debate, which Smithera takes in. She seems a bit amused when Sol mentions a population of 500. Grindar, Caelwyn, and 'Lil argue against any official religion in town. When Grindar begins describing the dangers the party has faced before, Smithira listens attentively, and seems to take the conversation as planning for the trip. This is backed up by both Akuno and Thorondir saying they think building the boat is a priority. Caelwyn thinks training a militia may be a priority, but isn't ready to accept the job, to Smithira's obvious disappointment. The number of councillors gets debated, with a concensus that not many are appropriate yet (or ever, according to 'Lil).

Bigby listens, not showing much interest until Akuno mentions that the Sarr created beastfolk. Smithira backs up the story, "Sprocket tells us the Warper-Sar created beastfolk. Only some of them got so badly lost in Maab's realms that they left before they entered. Sounds odd, but it's not the strangest tale about the Sar or Maab."

The conversation is a long one, but it doesn't last until lunch. Smithira has things to do. You can tag along, or follow some other pursuit. "You're all welcome back for lunch, though." An invitation that Thorondir declines.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday May 21st, 2020 2:35:24 AM
Sol considers everything that's been said.

"I think that Caelwyn, Lil and Grindar should help train a militia, Akuno and I can help oversee the creation of the boat, we may be able to learn something about how to make these boats in the future, if needed. Thorondir and Bigby, you could go and help hunt for some food for the whole town, perhaps learn more of the ways the settlers have survived, that way we are all helping in some way to the success of Rattledam, but all using our strengths. We could perhaps continue to do this until we are ready to leave for the Stone Temple? What do you all think?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday May 21st, 2020 6:00:12 AM
Sol, I'm all in favor of everyone doing what they can to make Rattledam a better and safer place to live, but in order for you and Akuno to oversee the ship construction, we will have to go the the Stone Temple, since that's where it's being built, under Virgil's watchful eye, and there is no way the two of you are traveling the Sargrass alone, I simply won't have it! The thought of losing either of you two isn't something I'm willing to accept, so I propose those of us with martial training teach what we can to the militia, so they have some drills to practice while we are away, and then we head back to the Stone Temple. One thought has crossed my mind though, without Thich, or another of the singing monks, how are we going to safely traverse the Crystal Mountains?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=27 ;
Thursday May 21st, 2020 2:14:35 PM
'Lil likes Grindar's plan.

"We should figure out who around here knows which end of a spear goes in the critter. I'll go eat lunch with Smithira & pick her brains about who that could be."

Then, she does that. During lunch, she'll work with Smithira regarding who can lead recruits through training drills while her and her dudes are dealing with stuff at the Stone Temple. She'll also act as a soundin' board in case Smithira's got anything she's unsure of.

Diplomacy: 27 - Behavin' during lunch and giving good advice, should it be asked for.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday May 21st, 2020 3:21:48 PM

Akuno wisely nods at Sol's suggestion. "After all, ships require labor, and am I not the queen of menial summonses?" Akuno is smugly gloating, quite pleased with finding a use for her otherwise useless magic. Even the floating discs could haul a train of supplies. She was ready to go!

Until Grindar mentioned that would mean her and Sol leaving alone out there, and that wasn't something she wanted. Not anything against the wizard, but she was already getting comfortable to the idea of having these big strong folks around while she was in this dangerous place. The fact that Grindar was already being protective of her was... sweet.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday May 21st, 2020 7:43:28 PM
"so militia, then boat?" For lunch Bigby attempts to keep up with Thorondir

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday May 21st, 2020 10:35:17 PM
Thorondir flies with Aewen, looking for game. He sees Bigby from a distance and calls out, but it isn't likely that Bigby will understand the language of eagles. They flush a prairie swallow and dive down for a quick kill. Aewen and Thorondir (in eagle form) perch on the kill, eating it by ripping off pieces of flesh and swallowing it.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday May 21st, 2020 11:37:36 PM
Caelwyn agrees with these suggestions. He assures Smithra, before she leaves, that he is happy to take the lead on forming the militia - he just wanted everyone to be in agreement on it first. If Lil and Grindar can help him, he is ready to start anytime.

He also shares the worries about getting across the Crystal Mountains...that is a problem that will have to be dealt with at some point.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, midday d20=3 ;
Friday May 22nd, 2020 12:36:58 AM
Plans are made for the next few hours, and for the longer term. Today, at least, that means hunting and interviewing. Later it looks like will mean heading back to the monks.

Bigby and Thorondir hunt. While they meet with success, it is not as easy here as they have usually found where they've been.

'Lil lunches with Smithira, and picks her mind about who might be capable at leading the militia. Top of that list is Broag Ironshield, who would rather replace Smithira as leader of the colony. Gruff Coalshine is a good weaponsmith, and Thori Rocksplitter is handy with a pick. These three are all dwarves. . . Everyone likes Taggert and Jarl, both humans, but their skills lie elsewhere. They'd be able to get people to pitch in, but they wouldn't be able to train them for battle. . . Kuiper or Shannon? No. They're survivors, but not fighters.

Grindar and Caelwyn worry about the potential trip. Aside from the grasslands, there are the crystal mountains to cross. This time they don't have Thich with them.

Sol and Akuno consider the conversations they've had, and the difficulties they may face.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday May 22nd, 2020 3:57:36 AM
Sol nods does what he can to prepare for the trip for the whole party, seeing what resources he can buy and such, and ways of transporting it.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday May 22nd, 2020 5:41:41 AM
Grindar is happy to assist Caelwyn in teaching some drills and when Lil comes back with a short list of potential leaders for the militia, he is glad that there is more then one option. "I don't know if putting Broag in a place of authority is a good idea at this moment", the half-orc ponders, That said we need all the help we can get. My thoughts on the matter are as follows: Place one of those three in charge, as say a colonel, and place the other two under him as lieutenants, with everyone under Caelwyn's authority, who would act as the general. Since you are the man in charge Caelwyn, it would be up to you to make that decision. It may help spending some time talking with the three candidates before making those choices though".

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday May 22nd, 2020 12:08:01 PM
'Lil listens to Smithira's ideas. None of them stand out as great options, but putting Broag in charge of the military seems to be asking for a coup.

She's also not sure Caelwyn's a great choice either. "Don't get me wrong, dude. I think you'd do a bang-up job, but we're probably gonna be outta town a lot, you know? The guard needs someone in charge that's gonna be here. Else yer gonna end up with someone else being the de-fac-to leader since Cae's gone so much. The dudes under him may come to view someone else as their real leader. Am I sayin' all that right? Makes sense in my head." She scratches said head.

"Truth is I ain't pleased with our choices. Maybe we get a message to Duke Rowan asking for another dude to lead a militia? That old guy's got a lot more resources than we do."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday May 22nd, 2020 2:43:29 PM
Caelwyn listens to Lil and Grindar, thinking hard. "I share your concerns about Broag...he is clearly an experienced warrior, but his desire to be in charge rules him out as commander. But he should have some sort of role. We want to make use of his experience, and to ignore him completely would simply make the problem worse. He and a couple others with experience should act as the lieutenants and sergeants, to train the men. But we need a leader, and I agree it should not be me if we are going to be traveling too much. I won't be able to gain their loyalty or trust."

He frowns in thought. "However, getting someone from Duke Rowan would take too long. I also think bringing in another outsider, unfamiliar to the people here, would be unwise. It has to be someone who is trusted by those here. Is there anyone else with at least some military experience, but also knows how to work out problems that arise between people...uh, but who isn't me, I guess?" He chuckles.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday May 22nd, 2020 3:07:43 PM
"perhaps Broag can be assistant to the general fighter manager. his experience can help but maybe the guy with pick axe is the guy we can trust for now. Just a thought. But then again I"m all for uncoventional weapons." Bigby looks at his claws and thinks oh yeah, if only teeth also. One day. He bares his teeth, lost in thought and bites. "oh yeah."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday May 22nd, 2020 10:49:56 PM
Not knowing the people in the town or their strengths, Thorondir is at a loss.
"As I have said, I don't know these people, or their strengths or needs. I do know that self sufficiency is the key to survival most places. All of them need to take a role in protecting themselves. I suppose I could teach them how to use a sling, if they can find any stones. Making a sling is something simple, and the supplies are all around us. No use teaching them to fight with swords if the equipment isn't readily available. But like I say, I don't know what they have at hand or can easily get."

Bigby's suggestion of unconventional weapons gets a nod from Thorondir. "Unconventional weapons are too frequently overlooked, but if someone is skilled with a scythe for farming then that is the best weapon they can use in a fight. No use getting someone killed trying to master something difficult."

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, afternoon
Saturday May 23rd, 2020 9:56:36 AM

Consulting his notes, Sol goes searching for the few items that the group is likely to need that the hunters won't be able to find along the way. Akuno decides to tag along, able to help him carry anything he finds.

Grindar, 'Lil, and Caelwyn debate the best way to handle the militia. Teaching people drills while they're in town is one thing -- the question of whether Caelwyn should be "in charge" is another. Grindar suggests that they talk to some of the candidates. It seems that all of them are busy at the moment, but that any or all of them could be approached when evening comes around, individually or as a group. During this, they also learn that Kuiper and Shannon are two of the better hunters in the village. Jarl is a farmer. Taggert is a tinker.

As for sending a message to the Duke, from what had Smithira said about that, with luck, the new sergeant might be here in a year.

Bigby joins the conversation when he returns, as does Thorondir. Thorondir raises the questions of who is to be in the militia -- is it a group in town, or everyone? And is the entire militia to receive the same training?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Saturday May 23rd, 2020 8:05:07 PM

Akuno walks behind Sol, humming a odd little tune. She keeps an eye out on the wizard. He seemed to still be a little down. "I've got discs for carrying things. So buy as much as you need."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Sunday May 24th, 2020 1:39:28 PM
"I'm still a bit worried about Broag leading the militia, but if we pick someone what ain't good for the job, there may not be no village left to defend. Might also cool his jets about bein' in charge. The other folks Smithira mentioned really ain't ideal." She muses.

"I say we just be straight with the guy. Tell him we think he's the most qualified, but need to know he's not the kind to use the militia for his own political ambitions. I'm good judge of character; think I'll be able to tell if he's trustworthy if I can get a chance to have words with him." She looks at her dudes, anxious to get a read on what they think'a her plan.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday May 24th, 2020 9:32:29 PM
Caelwyn thinks about Lil's words. "I agree, we need to speak with him just to get a read on what sort of person he he is...if he is honorable and trustworthy, than yes, it may be good to give him this kind of position...If."

He also thinks over questions of weapons and tactics. "Given what we have here, I think spears and slings are going to be our best options. Shields would be ideal, but we have very little wood. However, if we can get Ahoyka to come around, perhaps some steelgrass shields would be helpful."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday May 25th, 2020 2:28:16 AM
Grindar cringes a bit as Caelwyn mentions Ahoyka., but says nothing. Those who have gotten to know him, know that he feels a little hurt that she would leave them in their time of need. He shakes off the feelings of betrayal and says, "Both spears and slings usually require both hands anyway, so shields wouldn't be very helpful anyways". I"I'm down with talking to the dwarves to see if we can find a winner, even if it is Braog!"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday May 25th, 2020 2:50:31 PM
"Welp, sometimes best to just make a choice and live with it afterwards, then to not. Talking to the candidate seems like a good idea." Bigby wasn't sure why those words came out of his mouth rather than just thinking them. Guess he was ready to move on. Civilization was not really his thing. Adventure, hunting, the thrill of the wind on his fur, the community of his pack out there together. Was this him speaking outloud or thinking again. Ah, he's been here too long. Bigby chuckles as if having a conversation with someone else. Wolfgang gets him. Bigby rubs the back of Wolfgangs ear. "so lets go talk to the guy. You guys talk, I'll just watch and support." Did he say that outloud again?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday May 25th, 2020 7:41:51 PM
Thorondir will go along and watch, his sling suggestion seems to have been taken up. He thinks, but doesn't really have anything else to add to planning.

After a while, he goes outside and calls Aewen down to him. The eagle sits on his shoulder as Thorondir preens her.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, towards dusk
Monday May 25th, 2020 11:15:04 PM

The group gathers back together before dinner. Folks of Rattledam typically dine together in the evenings, and separately at breakfast and midday. The earlier meals are typically items served cold or with little preparation. The evening meal has more variety. This gives the group a chance to talk to their candidates.

Broag Ironshield is short, even for a dwarf, and well-muscled. He is distinctive, as his thick, dark hair falls in two directions -- not because he has parted it, but because there is a narrow scar diagonally across the top of his head where the hair doesn't grow. Most people in town carry knives, tools, or spears. Broag has a fine axe strapped to his back, and a sword at his waist. He sits with a few other dwarves, including Thori.

Thori Rocksplitter has not brought a weapon to dinner. He looks equally as strong as Broag, but more disheveled. His leather clothing has not been designed as armor, although it would undoubtedly provide him some protection. Rather, from the areas that are reinforced it is designed to protect his arms and legs.

Gruff Coalshine is dining at a table of humans. He carries a dagger, using it to eat. He appears even stronger than the other two, despite a slight pot-belly. He has taken time to clean up before joining in the meal. He sits at the table, not saying much. But those nearest to him generally chuckle after he speaks.

Before any of your group speaks to the dwarves, a skinny human joins you. You remember him as Taggert, either from past conversations or the previous evening's meeting. "Heard you," he gestures to Sol, "were gathering supplies today. So I guess it's true you're going to take Sprocket to see the boat being built? You're not planning on going right away, are you? You haven't had any time to rest."

As the place fills up, you see people generally sitting with their own kind. Not so much by race, but by clothing. There's a bunch of farmers in the far left. The hunters are scattered down one side, and so on. Some exceptions to this rule are that Smithira and Taggert move from table to table. And a number of people take time to approach the table where the insiders sit, although they mostly talk to Freakshow.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday May 25th, 2020 11:39:21 PM
Caelwyn heads over to the table where Broag and the dwarves around him are sitting. He sits down, hoping to see what the dwarf feels about all this.

"Broag, I hope you're keeping well. Will you speak with me? My companions and I are working to better organize the town, and we believe you could possibly play a significant role in keeping Rattledam safe."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 2:19:39 AM

Akuno watches Taggert and Smithera move about, and smiles a bit. They understood what it meant to part part of a community, those two. She nudges Bigby. "Smithera has some good ideas, I think. She's the right pick to lead this place. Maybe she should find a way to make Taggert a part of that too."

When it comes time to 'test' Broag, Akuno decides that she wants to be there. True, it's 'Lil and Caelwyn's expertise, but Akuno has an eye for talent.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 6:06:57 AM
As some of his pack approach Braog, Grindar notices something different about Gruff. He takes note to the fact that the weaponsmith has taken the time to wash up before dinning, which to the half-orc translates to self awareness, and a concern about his public image. He also notices the fact that even though he doesn't talk much, people listen when he does, and he wonders how that would translate if he was given authority, or if he was barking orders. Grindar decides to approach the dwarf, and as he walks over to the table he says, "Do you mind if I join you?" Assuming Gruff has no complaint to his joining, Grindar sits down and asks, "I hear your a weaponsmith, I was wondering, before coming to the Sargrass, where did you practice your trade, for the private market, or the military? I know it may seem like an odd question, but as one who depends on his weapons for survival, things like that hold interest to me, not because of any particular reason, mind you, I just like to know peoples backgrounds, especially those who make their livelihood crafting or using weapons, and since I've yet to meet a weaponsmith who didn't at least have a rudimentary understanding of the usage of their wares, I assume you have done both".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 1:42:27 PM
Bigby watches Grindar do his thing. Nice nice. He strokes his wolf goat tee. Bigby speaks to Thorondir, "this may not be our thing, but its important for two reasons, one like it or not this is our community. I think you'll find some will grow on you. They've certainly grown on me. But secondly its important to our team so that makes it important to me. But take your time. I'm sure you have good reason to be wary of humans and should trust that instict."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 5:01:22 PM
Sol nods to Taggert when he speaks.

"Yes, I intend to leave, relatively soon. As soon as we can get some other tasks sorted we will probably head out. Rest is not a luxury we have I am afraid. If Rattledam is to survive, we cannot wait and must get started on everything to help secure it as soon as possible."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=29 ;
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 5:28:31 PM
Cae and Grindar is already talkin', so 'Lil listens. She figures that's more important here anyway.

Sense motive: 29 - 'Lil's tryin'a get a read on Borag.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=16 ;
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 8:52:56 PM
Caelwyn is hoping that Broag is willing to speak with him, so he does his best to sound professional.

Diplomacy 16

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, evening
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 12:42:53 AM

Caelwyn and 'Lil approach Broag. Akuno watches the room. Grindar talks to Gruff while Bigby watches. Sol talks with Taggert as he returns from his forays to talk with others. Thorondir mostly wishes there weren't so many people around.

'Lil -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Broag seems to have resented something Caelwyn said, but decided not to respond. His friends are watching him, too.
Broag's waiting for Caelwyn to say what's on his mind.}

Broag takes Caelwyn in, considers a moment, and allows as how he'll listen to what Caelwyn has to say. "Aye, I'm keeping well enough. What's on your mind?" One of the other dwarves starts to say something, but stops when Broag tells him to use Common in company that doesn't speak Dwarven. "Sorry, he and I've known each other a long time. Same clan. Split up when I joined the army, got back together for this venture."

.
Taggert explains to Sol in snatches, "We've learned a bit from Freakshow, Ahyoka, and Needle while you've been gone. How to make some things that might be useful to you on your way. But what we can gather that might be a help to you will depend on how long you expect to stay. The question is, will it be supplies on hand, or should we be trying to make something?"

.
Gruff gives Grindar an appraising eye, but is quick to say he's welcome. "That's a fine axe you've got. Good workmanship. Never made a double-axe myself, though axes are what I'm known for." As Grindar presses, he realizes Gruff is not much of a talker. But when he talks, he's confident in what he says. Gruff agrees that yes, he has some skill with both hammer and axe. He's been in fights, too -- and explains that just about everyone in the town's first wave fought someone or something during the bloodgrass invasion, if no other time. That's not the only time Gruff's fought, but he's never been in the military. "So what's up? You don't need an axe."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 6:20:42 AM
Grindar looks at Gruff while trying his best to decide how to answer. finally he decides to be strait forward.

"As you probably know my pack and I have kinda fallen into the role of protectors of our fledgling community. I say fallen, because, well, it just kinda happened, at least that's how I see it. The problem is, it seems that we are going to be called away again soon, and if this is going to be the trend, we will probably be away much more than we like in the future. We know there are capable warriors among our community, warriors who are willing to fight to protect, but their isn't any organization, and if this town were to be attacked by any serious force, I fear it will be quickly overran, even if we were here to defend it. As such, we have been tasked with assembling a militia, and the first step is finding a worthy leader. Someone people respect, and someone who is willing to work with and possible take orders from the new council. It just so happens, that you are one of a handful of people who may fit that role, and we are trying to sort out the best person for the job".

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=10 ; d20+10=12 ;
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 10:47:38 AM
'Lil winces. She takes a seat and leans back, hoping Cae will pick up on her casual demeanor and loosen up a bit. She pats the seat next to her if he don't take the hint.

She decides to do the talkin', hoping Caelwyn forgives her presumption. "Had lunch with Smithira earlier to talk about gettin' a militia up and running. Your name came up, seein' as how you've served before. We wanted to get a read on how willing you'd be to serve again and get some folks here fit to fight." She pauses a bit. "I'm just gonna be straight with you for this next bit: rumors are you felt you should be in charge. Hope you understand how that might make a body concerned about what they might do with a militia if they found themselves disagreeing with Smithira 'bout something down the line."

'Lil must be nervous about all this, cause she ain't on top of her game.

Diplomacy: 10
Sense motive: 12 - rolled 2 on both

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+9=22 ; d20=9 ;
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 2:37:16 PM

Akuno watches the dwarf with burning intensity. She's not sure what she's looking for, but if something feels off, she'll let Lil know. If he looks offended at what 'Lil is suggesting to be the hiccup, she will try to help smooth that over too.

"Any wise leader has to keep a very concise picture of those who help her. It's not that we think you are going to try and lead an armed revolt." She clears her throat, and puts on an anticipatory smug smile."No dwarf with a brushed beard would do something like that." She punctuates this line with a snap and a wink. "Nailed it again! Time to drive it home!", she thinks. "We want to know if in your own, solid granite opinion of yourself, if you think you can keep your beard straight and your feet square on the stone." The lacy catgirl stomps tiny booted feet on the ground and pretends to stroke a beard, completely selling out to her attempt to get on even footing with the good dwarf.

"Especially if the time comes when Smitheras plan of action isn't what you would do. We don't expect you to pretend that watered down wine is good dwarven stout.." Here, she pantomimes drinking from her own massive tankard, the size of her head. "...but if she hears your arguments and insists you drink it, then we wanna make sure you'll do it with only the right and proper amount of grumbling!" She takes a final gulp of air, then slams down her mug and wipes her air beard, pleased as punch with her attempt at dwarven diplomacy.

Diplomacy 22: Trying to not offend him with their concerns.
Aid Another Sense Motive: Failed.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 4:08:47 PM
Thorondir wanders in and out listening to the conversations. Bigby's attempt to get him more involved hasn't worked yet. "I'm of no use here in this town. All of my skills are based upon the natural world, and I'm not much of a talker."

Thorondir did mention before that he is willing to teach techniques for using a sling better.
"I'll be happy to teach those who want to improve using a sling in the morning. Better to hit your opponent from a distance than to stand around trading sword blows."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 6:26:16 PM
Sol nods.

"I am not sure how long we will remain here, but as I said we will probably be leaving soon... it may be something we have to discuss to be certain of exactly when we will leave."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 7:59:37 PM
Bigby takes note that Thorondir still isn't comfortable in town. He shrugs it off and thinks, well I can definitely understand that and lets him be on his way. He considers distant weapons for a moment and then laughs. nothing beats claws. hmm, not for later on a game. Sling, paper, claws. It could be fun.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, evening
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 11:25:59 PM

Gruff listens to Grindar and chuckles. "No. Oh, I could make sure folks had decent weapons, and I might even be able to give 'em pointers on their use. I could work with a council, but. . . Okay, I'm less clannish than other folks. That comes from years living with humans. . . Helvede, you're serious. How about we stretch our legs together after supper?"

.
Broag and the dwarves listen as 'Lil and Akuno say their piece and Caelwyn watches. 'Lil thinks what she said was perhaps received well enough, until Akuno starts explaining it in dwarven fashion. She watches the dwarves start a slow burn as the cat-girl speaks, until suddenly Broag's "rude" friend bursts out laughing. He says something -- "Jegville væreglad forat havenogle udvandet vini denneødemark. Bedreend hvadvi harfået nu." -- which gets the others laughing. Except for Broag.

"A militia? You've seen something in your travels we should know about?"

"Laddem tro, atdu kunneplacere etkup meddette nummer. Sehvad dukan kommeud afdet. Nemmere endat regere."

"You know, I was regular army. Any militia we make out of this lot won't be. They'll be farmers and craftsmen who learn how to fight." Broag gestures to the room as he speaks. "I'm probably the only one here who can take an order."

.
Thorondir and Bigby hear what's going on, but keep to themselves. Taggert says good evening to Sol and goes on with his doings.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=19 ;
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 11:57:12 PM
Caelwyn winces inwardly as Akuno speaks. This ridiculous cat-girl is going to ruin everything, he thinks to himself. He quickly picks up the conversation, trying to move on from that embarrassing moment.

"Well, we won't make a regular army in a day, certainly. But we are looking for those willing to help guide and protect this town. You have the most experience out of anyone here. You aren't the only one we are speaking with, but we wanted to see if you might be willing to have a hand in protecting this place."

Diplomacy 19

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday May 28th, 2020 6:01:01 AM
Grindar happily agrees to take a stroll with Gruff after supper. He finds he likes Gruff"s demeanor greatly, especially his modesty. He believes in his mind that Gruff is the right man for the job, but how does he inform his friends, who seem bent on Broag? Finally he sees a solution, as he realizes that Gruff is a person who understands how things work. He says to him, "I would love to join you for a stroll after dinner, but I need to check in with my pack first, will that work for you?" If Gruff is fine with Grindar checking in, the half-orc will excuse himself, and head over to where the rest of his pack are interrogating Broag. "Guys, something has come to the surface, and I need to talk to you all in private!", Grindar says to get the pack away from Broag. When out or ear shot, he says, "I think Gruff is our man, or I suppose I should say dwarf. He's humble, personable, as well as, even keeled, and because he grew up among humans, he doesn't hold any clannish attachments! He doesn't say a lot, but when he does, people listen, that's the kind of respect he carries among the others, and everyone seems to enjoy his presence. After dinner I'm supposed to go for a stroll with him to talk about the prospects, maybe you guys should join me".

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday May 28th, 2020 12:29:17 PM
"Any militia we make out of this lot won't be. They'll be farmers and craftsmen who learn how to fight."

"Yea, like we said: a militia." 'Lil's rubbed the wrong way by these dudes speaking dwarf. It's rude, even if Akuno was talkin' way too fancy for these folks. When Grindar comes with his news, she's plenty ready to excuse herself.

"Ok dude. I'm not crazy about Broag and his posse. I'll give this other dwarf a listen."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20=2 ;
Thursday May 28th, 2020 4:22:44 PM
Bigby will join along with Grindars request. He attempts sense motive, but senses nothing. I'll just trust Grindar, 'Lil and Cael to handle this. But if things get dicey, we're here to help he thinks.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday May 28th, 2020 7:17:32 PM

When everyone starts readying to leave, Akuno isn't quite sure who to follow. She does a little dance of moving back and forth, before waving a cheerful goodbye to Broag and following 'Lil out the door.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday May 28th, 2020 9:06:34 PM
Caelwyn is happy to hear about Gruff's potential, but he still wants to finish his talk with Broag. Whether or not Broag is selected as a leader, they will need him and his followers to take part in the military preparations if the city is to survive. He waits to hear what Broag will say.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, evening
Friday May 29th, 2020 12:26:48 AM

Grindar talks to his friends, then goes to talk more with Gruff. 'Lil, Bigby, and Akuno follow. When they meet outside, Gruff says, "Didn't realize there'd be many of you." The little group walks for a while, variously in small talk or in silence, before getting to the point. After a while, it's clear Gruff is leading you a particular direction. "I'm guessing that if you're talking to me, someone said something that makes you worry about Broag. More than a guess, really -- he's clearly got the background for the job."

Gruff goes to the upper edge of town, where the construction is different. There are no grass huts here, but a slight slope dug into the gentle hillside. It leads to an earthen wall that has a half-dozen doors set in it. "You can guess who lives in these houses. Now, down there you can a seam of rubble. It's traditional construction to protect from flooding. Think we need flood protection here? Took a lot of work to build a trench drain into this hillside. Most of the town thought it was crazy, but there's a good number of dwarves here, determined to do what they know. Door on the right there belongs to Needle. He was so happy when he saw this. Seems that it doesn't rain every year, but there's a seasonal storm. And if you happen to be where it rains, it floods. The Climbers never thought to drain their tunnels. The dwarves knew what they were doing, but they couldn't convince the rest of the town." Gruff looks at everyone, maybe trying to decide if they understand. "Broag knows more about training people to fight than I ever will. He's just. . . hidebound."

.
Caelwyn stays to talk to Broag.

Broag seems out of sorts. But he answers Caelwyn's questions. There's probably no one here better qualified to play a significant role in keeping Rattledam safe. He has been a professional soldier, lead units, and trained recruits. And why Caelwyn's friend got upset when he was explaining that militias are tied to the community and prone to consider more than what they're told to do is beyond him. The obnoxious fellow who's been speaking dwarven switches to plain Common to back up what Broag's telling Caelwyn, and aplogizes to Caelwyn for teasing Broag about the cat-girl.

.
Sol -- Perception DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {When Akuno tried to talk to them, the dwarves responded with a joke about watered down wine being better than what they drink now. A pun was involved. They followed up teasing Broag about the questions.}

Thorondir watches the door.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=8 ;
Friday May 29th, 2020 2:58:15 AM
Sol is not being perceptive today, and remains quiet, as he doesn't want to interfere with choosing a militia leader, something far beyond his scope of abilities.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday May 29th, 2020 6:18:53 AM
"Gruff, we recognize Broag's, ability, and would love nothing else but to utilize it, but our concern isn't his ability to lead a militia, it's his ability to play nice. We need a militia leader who recognizes potential in the abilities of everyone, not just his own kind, after all we a community of multiple races living together, and not everyone can do what your people do brilliantly, while at the same time, there are things humans do better then anyone, and so on and so forth. I agree with you that Broag can't see past his own race, and that has potential to limit our strength. I am also afraid that he may not be able to, or willing to work with and take orders from the council, that's being formed, and the council leader, who for the time being is Smithera. Gruff, you have said that you grew up among humans, and watching you at dinner, it is obvious that you are comfortable with people of different races, and unlike Broag, you haven't shown any ambitions for the council leadership. In the short time I've been talking to you, I have gleaned that you are both humble and confident, which are two traits you don't often find in the same person. If you are chosen as the militia leader, I would suggest talking to Broag and asking him to help, maybe even making him your lieutenant. Of course no decisions have been made yet, but if you are chosen, I believe you have the potential to do an amazing job.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday May 29th, 2020 11:57:28 AM
'Lil tends to agree with Grindar's thinkin', but it brings her back to the same issue she had with Cae bein' in charge: that bein' the militia will know who's really in charge when Broag is the one with all the expertise. She reckons her and her dudes are gonna end up disagreeing about who should be in charge.

She don't have a real strong opinion either way. She finds Gruff a lot more likable, but puttin' him in charge of a militia seems like it'd be pigeon-holing him where he don't belong. Then she remembers that this really ain't their decision to make. Best they can do is report back to Smithira and let the elected leadership of this new town decide.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday May 29th, 2020 2:27:08 PM

Hopping around was fun, but Akuno could be easily distracted. She had let Broag know what the worry was, and she kinda thought he was a good choice to oversee training, if not the militia in general.

"The drill sergeant doesn't have to be the commander.", she mumbles.

Suddenly disenchanted with the whole affair, Akuno decides its time to muck about and look at this place a bit closer. What's here? Stores? Food? Just some houses? Akuno takes the time to explore the place.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=17 ;
Friday May 29th, 2020 8:45:19 PM
Seeing Akuno slip out to explore, Thorondir follows her.
"What you hoping to find? If it is excitement, I think you are in the wrong town. They don't have anything to spare here, and the sooner we are gone the better."

Seeing that it is evening, Thorondir decides if he is going to look around he better have the right set of eyes.

"I'm going to fly around as an owl and see what I can see. I'll let you know."
Perception check 17
Thorondir wildshapes into an owl and will fly around trying to spot anything that has escaped his notice.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday May 29th, 2020 11:25:30 PM
Bigby just listens in, not having much to add to the situation. He leans towards having towards supporting Grindar's dwarf.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday May 29th, 2020 11:55:14 PM
Caelwyn listens hard to Broag's words, looking for any sign of dishonesty. He hasn't picked up on anything so far. The dwarf is clearly a soldier.

"Thank you, Broag. I apologize for my friend's brusqueness - she has not serve in any military unit herself, as far as I can tell, and doesn't seem to understand the point you were making. I must speak with my companions, but it's clear to me that you are a capable warrior and strategist. If we are to survive, we must all band together and use our skills for the good of the whole community - yours may be of great help to Rattledam. I'll be in touch."

He accepts the other dwarf's apology and moves to find his friends, thinking hard.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20=8 ; d20+11=25 ;
Friday May 29th, 2020 11:55:44 PM
Sense motive: 8

Diplomacy: 25

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, morning
Saturday May 30th, 2020 12:56:36 AM
As Caelwyn leaves the dining hall, he is offered a few items wrapped in leaves, to take for breakfast. By the time he finds the others, Gruff has left them. Akuno has left the group to go exploring on her own. Thorondir has done the same. 'Lil, Grindar, and Bigby are talking among themselves about what they learned. Sol catches up with the group carrying his own breakfast packages. Having learned what they could from Broag and Gruff, and not having a chance to talk to others before the dinner is over, there's not much to do until morning. Even the explorers find the community to be quiet that evening.

Breakfast turns out to be some very chewy bread with a thick, mild, meat-flavored paste. It's almost like fowl, but outside of the homes of druids, the party isn't sure they've seen any birds in the plains.

Sprocket finds the group early, and asks what the plan is. Taggert told him last night that they weren't looking to stick around long. "And if you don't mind me asking, what do you call yourselves? Not your names, mind, but your pack as Freakshow would say."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Sunday May 31st, 2020 5:57:36 AM
Sol looks a little taken aback.

"A group name? I had not really thought about that being a requirement to be honest with you."

He then looks at the rest of the party to see if they have had any thoughts.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Sunday May 31st, 2020 12:08:46 PM
“We’ve discussed this on and off, but honestly We never came up with a name with enough shade to it. I personally like the name Sargrass Sentinels, but I also like the Rattledam Rangers, The Wolf Pack, as well as simply “The Pack”, they all sound very Sargrassian to me, but whether or not they have the right shade to them, and whether or not they fit our pack...???”

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Sunday May 31st, 2020 1:51:12 PM

Akuno thinks for a moment.

"The Traveling Knights of Princess Akuno?", she helpfully suggests. "Or maybe, if its better to keep some things secret, we can shorten down to something like..." She squeezes her fists against her head, trying to squeeze juicy thoughts from her brain. "The Grass Guard? I mean, that seems to be what you do, is travel about and guard the communities of the Sargrass. You just show up when needed, right? Like palace guards."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Sunday May 31st, 2020 7:42:25 PM
"I'm wondering that too." says Thorondir in response to Sprocket's question. "I mean I really don't know much about you myself. I was asked to tag along to keep an eye on things, but I really don't know much about you guys. You talk with reverence about druid wood, so I assume you are good. Though I too would like to know more about you. Your name would be handy, incase I need to call upon your group someday. I didn't realize Akuno was your leader when we first started out, since she wasn't with us until we got here."

He turns to Akuno and with a slight bow he adds "So your highness, I should call your group the Grass Guard?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday May 31st, 2020 11:52:14 PM
Caelwyn glances sideways at Thorondir and Akuno, barely managing to keep from rolling his eyes and stifling a smile. "We did not meet Akuno until we returned to Rattledam, Thorondir - you have been travelling with us longer than she has, actually."

"I prefer the Sargrass Sentinals as well, Grindar - has a better ring to it. That would be my vote, should we make a decision. We are the protectors of this town and the area around it, so I think it fits."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Monday June 1st, 2020 10:43:10 AM
'Lil feels the need to clear somethin' up right now.

"Think I've let this slip too long already, kinda hopin' it would go away." She turns to Akuno. "I ain't gonna speak for these dudes, but I am no one's knight 'cept Domi's. Ain't sure where you got the idea that we was'er to serve you, but I ain't on board with that. You handle yourself in a fight and work to keep these folks safe with us, you're more than welcome. Let's just make sure we're all real clear on the hierarchy here, ok?"

She waits a moment before concluding, "..and yea, Sargrass Sentinels sounds like a winner to me too. Good thinkin', Grindar."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday June 1st, 2020 2:17:10 PM
Bigby thinks, don't care if we are called wolf pack, but I consider this my pack. He looks to Wolfgang, and says "our pack. Better?" To the group, "Sentinels of the Sargrass, sure sure. Ummm, but what is a sentinel?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday June 1st, 2020 2:46:49 PM
With a frown, Akuno shies away from 'Lil with big, defiant eyes. "I never said anything of the sort! I just thought it was a good name!" Her tail twitches, showing agitation. Like a cat, she starts grooming her dress, covering her embarrassment. "But don't you worry, Knight of Domi, I'll not err on the side of being too familiar with you again." She picks a small bug from her dress, and flicks it to the ground. She watches it crawl for a second, then crosses her arms and turns away from Lil. "Hierarchy understood."

Normally, she would have found a spot to sulk. Instead, she uses Bibgy's question as a distraction.

Akuno pats Wolfgang, and answers Bigby, and only the tiniest bit of haughtiness creeps into her voice. "Its a guard or knight, keeping watch and protecting from attack. Sometimes they stay in one place forever, serving until relieved or their duty is finished." It's a bit of a romanticized answer, but its more or less accurate she thinks.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday June 1st, 2020 4:36:37 PM
Looking from Akuno to Lil, Thorondir shrugs. He whistles, and Aewen comes down from the sky and lands upon his shoulder. They preen each other and Thorondir says in the eagle language "You are much easier to understand. These strange folk seem to not know who they are, as of yet anyway."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday June 1st, 2020 6:04:34 PM
Sol nods.

"I also think the Sargrass Sentinals has a nice ring to it... I just wish I had thought of it..." he gives Grindar a playful punch on the arm, despite his apparent lack of physicality. You suspect even if he had tried it wouldn't have hurt...

Sol looks a little concerned when Akuno get's quite clearly offended.

"I am not certain we even have an official leader. Simply because we have never needed to think about it. We all have strengths and weaknesses that each of us can cover. Do we need a specific leader? If so, as much as I might like the task, I am not certain I would have all of your support, given my... uh... lack of contributions in some areas."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday June 1st, 2020 11:52:43 PM
Caelwy backs up Lil as well. "I am a servant of Domi, Akuno, and therefore will seek to protect you along with other innocents from those who might do you harm. But I do not serve you. We shall work together, however, and hopefully we can achieve safety for Rattledam." He smiles, hoping to show Akuno that he is not angry and that he means this kindly.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, morning
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 12:04:46 AM
Sprocket apologizes for distracting you, and says he'll be ready when you are. Meanwhile, he knows you're working on another task. "And how's that going, if I may ask? Don't let Smithira put too much on you. We can deal with our tensions if you need to deal with your own."

Folks here are working hard, with always more to do. That doesn't mean you can't ask more questions or find a moment to share your opnions.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 6:00:05 AM
Grindar smiles at Sol's playful punch, then acts as if he was hurt, before breaking out laughing with his friend. He than turns to Sproket and says:

"Well, I guess we are officially the Sargrass Sentinels, by a overwhelming vote, but don't worry Sprocket, I feel we needed to make a decision on a name eventually anyways, after all, all the note worthy adventuring packs have one, not that we are going out of our way to be noteworthy, at the moment, it feels that we are just trying to survive, kinda like everyone else in Rattledam. As to the task given us by Smithira we have been asked to determine who might make a good leader for a militia, as it has become clear that an organized defense is essential for our community's survival. We have interviewed both Gruff and Broag, whom Smithira suggested may be good candidates. Our conclusion is that Broag has by far the most military experience in Rattledam, experience that would most defiantly serve him well, but he is a bit close minded towards non-dwarves, and possibly a bit of a hot head. While on the other hand Gruff has no military experience, but he is a natural born leader. He is respected and well liked by people of all races, as well as a team player. Personally, I would love to find a way that we could utilize Broag's experience and Gruff's level headed, and inclusive, leadership skills. Of course the final outcome will be decided by Smithira and the new council, but my suggestion would be to make Gruff the commander of the militia, and Broag his Lieutenant/Drill Sargent, thus gaining the benefits of both leaders, doing what they do best, assuming of course that Broag would be willing to be Gruff's subordinate."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 10:27:50 AM

Akuno tries her best to be quiet and respectful, and finds herself squirming while Caelwyn talks. For some reason, she saw him different than she did 'Lil. He was more of an authority, and not someone she wanted to roll eyes at or stomp feet with.

Face flush, she repeats what she told them all from the very beginning. "Rulership is servitude, ser Caelwyn. I'm here for three reasons. To serve and help other people, to become a better noble, and to find out where I belong. I've no desire to lead an adventuring group I joined to learn how to adventure!" She knew she was sounding whiny, like an upset tween, so she zips her lips and offers a most excellent curtsy before excusing herself and plopping down on a floating disc, near Thorondir.

"Your bird is pretty.", she sniffles. "Can I pet it?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 5:34:43 PM
Sol simple stays quiet and lets Grindar speak, he was speaking well and was giving out the conclusions the group had come to.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 6:14:25 PM
"Well Akuno, petting is more for dogs and cats. Aewen likes to be preened, that means you look through the feathers and clean them. If you see any lice or ticks" Thorondir pulls a small tick from between Aewen's feathers "like this, just pull it out and eat it." Thorondir pops it into his mouth and bites it between his teeth and then swallows. "If you build trust, Aewen will also return the favor and preen you, removing any lice or ticks that may be in your fur.

Thorondir talks to Aewen, and then holds the bird close to Akuno. "Would you like to try?"

He then turns and looks at the group. "So you guys are the Sargrass Sentinels? You don't have a leader though I take it? Perhaps you can take it in turns to act as a sort of executive officer for the week."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 6:23:19 PM
'Lil smiles. "All good then, Akuno dude." She ain't too on board with any'a them being leader, but she also ain't sure Thorondir wasn't just joking around. She hadn't spent too much time with the guy, but to be fair dude spent a lotta time away from people.

Nothing wrong with that, of course.

She listens to Akuno's response to Cae. "I dunno, Akuno. I hear leader types sayin' they're servants a lot, but I don't know any servants that eat as well as royalty, ya know? Always just thought that was something they said to take some'a the heat off them." Her tone is friendly. She's not looking to start an argument, just a discussion. "Don't mean I don't think you don't believe it, mind you." She goes back over that sentence in her head. That was a lot of don'ts thrown out at once. Reckon she should make sure she didn't accidentally throw out a double negative. She thinks she said it right.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 8:54:08 PM
Bigby thinks on the leadership talk, "so we need an alpha that the pack can follow? I'm sure someone will emerge. Some have already." Bigby trails off in thought. He considers what Thorondir says of Aewen and nods that it makes sesne.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 11:12:15 PM
Caelwyn is unsure about Grindar's position. "I am not yet convinced that Broag is the wrong person to lead the militia. He is undoubtedly the one with the most expertise, and no one else will know how to train the soldiers properly. And I don't think there is any chance he will answer to Gruff - they know as well as we do that Broag is the one with the qualifications. If he's willing to be militia leader, and doesn't seek to elevate himself further, maybe it should be considered? But we need to find Gruff a position as well, he clearly seems to merit it."

He listens to Thorondir's suggestion. "Interesting. But perhaps all the decisions of that officer should be ratified at a special bi-weekly meeting?"

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, midday
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 12:53:56 AM
Two positions arise from the group's internal discussions. Broag can drill routines and combat scenes with footwork impeccable, but is that enough?

Before the debate is settled, Taggert finds the group. "Say, did you happen to be looking for Smithira this morning?" Seems that she's missing a tool or two. It's not like her to misplace things, and Taggert thought that if anyone had been around maybe they'd seen something. Upon learning that group has not been out, Taggert leaves, with a wink for Akuno and a cheery, "It's a busy life in Rattledam," for everyone.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 6:00:40 AM
"You know Cae, I don't disagree with you regarding Broag's abilities, he's probably got more experience then you and I combined, my concern is whether or not he can be a team player. That said, I'm glad the final decision isn't up to us, and I'm Ok with both our recommendations going to the Powers that Be, and letting them decide which one is best! Sounds like we should just go talk to Smithira and tell her our observations, and maybe help her find the missing tools", Grindar laughs when he mentions the tools, giving the impression that he added that bit as a joke. "As far as a pack leader is concerned, we have multiple pack mates who have displayed wisdom, we have multiple pack mates who can hold, and have held the front line, handing out encouragement as they go, we have pack mates who display amazing rear echelon abilities, we have intelligent pack mates, and strong pack mates, and the list goes on and on. The point is we are all leaders in our own way! Those of us who have fought side by side have learned to trust one another, and rely on their abilities, and as far as our newest pack mates are concerned, I'm looking forward to seeing what they have to bring to the pack as well. We don't need an official leader, as the right person has and will continue to step up when the situation arises.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 1:21:39 PM
Thorondir nods at Caelwyn's suggestion. "Yes, a bi-weekly meeting would be a great idea to ratify decisions."

While he listens to Grindar outlining how the group works and leaders step up as needed, he adds "Sort of a anarcho syndicalism communal sort of a system? Sounds like a great way to keep the power in the hands of people. Why don't you suggest such a system for Rattledam?"

Upon hearing of the missing tools, Thorondir seems to change his mood. Looking at the group he says: "Tools don't just go missing on their own, sounds like perhaps theft is taking place. Has Rattledam had problems with theft before?

During all of this, he is checking Aewen for lice and ticks, pulling them off and eating them. Waiting to see if Akuno wants to take part.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 2:12:20 PM
'Lil's pretty sure ticks cause disease. She ain't sure eating them's a good idea, but she also don't want to stick her nose where it don't belong.

She decides to focus on the tool thing too. "All this talk about militia, we never talked about a Sheriff. I'm gonna go talk to Smithira about it afore we start playing detective. Might be a good time to talk about who's leading the militia too if anyone wants to join."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 5:45:03 PM
Sol nods at Grindar's words.

"I like that idea. We can defer to who has the most expertise to deal with the given situation at hand." he smiles, which quickly fades at the mention of the missing tools.

"Oh... that is unfortunate..." he gives a somewhat uncertain glance to Thorondir. "Are we quite certain we wish to jump to the conclusion of theft? I am not saying it is not the case, but there are not many here in Rattledam yet... a thief amongst us would be... unsettling..." he pauses.

"However I do not wish to shy away from harsh truths. Though is it possible someone has merely borrowed them without asking and intends to return them? We should still investigate to ensure this sort of thing does not happen again, whatever the cause."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 5:46:53 PM

Breathing a little easier after catching a wink from Taggart and a measure of conciliatory tone from 'Lil, her spirits are on the rise. She smiles back at Taggart and gives him a thumbs up.

She watches Thoromir carefully, and decides to give it a go with Aelwyn. She's never been much of a bird person, but right now this little lady was pretty, and show she sifts through a few feathers very carefully. When she finds a bug, she pierces it with a single claw, and flicks it to the ground. When she sees what Thoromir is doing, she's horrified.

"There's no way I could eat them!", she loudly whispers. She wasn't sure why she was whispering, she just didn't think Aelwyn would appreciate loud noises in her ears.

---------------------------------

Regarding sheriffs and militias, she felt like the dwarves were all good leaders in different capacities. Whatever Smithera picked, she didn't think there would be a problem.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 8:59:51 PM
right about now, Bigby would be sure to pull out a pipe and light it. "A theif you say? The game is a foot." He trails off to Thorondir's eating of the lice. "probably good protein."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 11:01:58 PM
Caelwyn nods his head as Thorondir responds. "Precisely...more of an autonomous collective rather than a dictatorship."

He is also glad they don't have to make the final decision about the positions in town. And that is strange about the missing tools..."Perhaps they were borrowed, or taken by mistake?"

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, midday
Thursday June 4th, 2020 12:01:07 AM
'Lil leaves to look or Smithira, not surprised if the others follow her. Smithira is not hard to find today -- she's in her shop. By trade, Smithira is a carpenter.

"Oh, hi," Smithira says softly when she sees everyone there. "What have you been up to?" But she immediately continues, more confident, "Learned anything?" Her voice more reminiscent of a human's than a dwarf's -- sweeter and higher pitched than most of her fellows.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday June 4th, 2020 6:15:02 AM
Grindar shares what he learned about Gruff, and what he learned from Gruff. He concludes by saying that his suggestion would be to chose Gruff to be the commander, and if he is willing, have Broag be his lieutenant/drill sergeant. He tells Smithira that this isn't a group consensus, and mentions that Caelwyn may have a different recommendation.

"I hear your missing some tools. What kinda tools are we talking about, and do you have any idea as to where they may be?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday June 4th, 2020 5:39:09 PM
Sol nods, baking up what Grindar says to Smithira.

"We wanted to offer our skills to help you find them."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday June 4th, 2020 8:09:27 PM
"Indeed tell of the tools. The game is a paw." Bigby taps a claw on hi cheek.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday June 4th, 2020 8:31:40 PM
After preening Aewen, Thorondir speaks to her in eagle shrieks and she flies up into the sky.

"There is nothing wrong with eating these parasites Akuno, that is how animals clean each other and get a small high protein snack in return as Bigby says. Some folk think they may bring disease, but we know that Marteaus is the source of disease. Don't cross him, and you should be healthy no matter what you eat."

Responding to Caelwyn, he says "It is good to be part of an autonomous collective. I couldn't be ruled by a dictator, I value my freedom too much."

He tags along, interested in the tool mystery. He is a bit concerned that Sol thinks he is prejudging folks too soon. "Sol, I don't mean to judge too harshly. Though it seems to me that Smithera isn't the sort to be careless with the tools of her trade."

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, midday
Friday June 5th, 2020 12:51:35 AM
"No one here is careless with their tools. It's too hard to replace them. No one here would steal tools, either. It would be noticed who had them in time. I'm missing a case about so big," Smithira gestures, "with my rasps. Don't worry, they'll turn up. Look if you want." She offers to make everyone tea, and excuses herself for a moment.

Smithira returns shortly. "So, when you recommend a militia, I assume that means in a place this size everyone would have to take their turn in it." She picks the party's brains on that topic a bit, before turning to others, such as what specific dangers rhe party has seen and what their long-term plans are.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday June 5th, 2020 6:04:23 AM
"As far as the militia is concerned, and based on the current size of our community, you are probably right, all able body persons should participate for now. Eventually, as Rattledam grows, we may be able to drop the militia, in favor of a full time guard, but let's not get ahead of ourselves", Grindar says, in way of an answer. "I personally haven't given much thought to long-term goals. We have been running from here to there since we have arrived, with unimaginable dangers always just around the corner, it feels like we are just trying to stay alive! I do desire to see Rattledam grow and prosper, and will do what I can to make that happen, with the Druid wood ship being a good place to start. I also wish to see the plains become a safer place to live and travel. The only personal goal I have is to be known as a hero of justice!

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday June 5th, 2020 11:05:18 AM
"Eh, I don't think this place'll ever be safe safe, ya know? Old Rattledam had to be built with a giant dome just to keep the Sargrass from swoopin' in and killing everyone."

It's a hard question. They're here because a duke asked them to come get this place ready for him to exploit it's natural resources. At least, that was her read on the situation.

"Danger-wise there's critters out there I don't know the names of. There's big bugs, cannibal halflings, and this thing called a mutation bloom popped up and turned just 'bout every creature around it into a bloodthirsty beast. This place is real dangerous, Smithira. We'll need hard work and brave souls and all that, but it may not be enough.

"Militia's up to you as far as I'm concerned. You want my help with it, all you gotta do is ask. Regarding Gruff or Broag, both have their merits. We don't necessarily agree on the best one for the job. Asuko wisely pointed out that the drill sergeant ain't gotta be the militia commander. Broag would certainly make the better drill sergeant. That's something we do agree on."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday June 5th, 2020 8:17:00 PM
Sol smiles at Thorondir.

"Oh absolutely, I agree... I just dislike jumping to any conclusions without facts to support it. Suggesting a thief is definitely a possibility, but we have no evidence to confirm it. I have often found that if you come up with a theory, such a thief did it, it can often become too easy to twist the facts to suit the theory rather than your theory to suit the facts. The facts are that Smithira has lost some tools, but it seems unlikely she would have lost them, yet they should be found. That is all we currently know."

He shrugs.

"Once we have more evidence we can merge that into our theory too."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday June 5th, 2020 11:43:55 PM
Caelwyn shares his recommendations as well. "It's true, this is a land of deadly perils. Any able body person must take their share in the militia, as needed. Broag is clearly an experienced warrior, and his talents should not be wasted. As to whether or not he should truly be in command...I leave that up to your good judgement. It seems that Gruff has a better disposition, but I don't think Broag would answer to him as a lieutenant."

He's glad Thorondir agrees with him. "Exactly! Couldn't stand being repressed all the time, now could we?"

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, midday
Saturday June 6th, 2020 9:46:02 AM
Lil's comments drag Smithira off in another direction momentarily. "Oh, the dome. Ahyoka and Needle say we need it, but aside from saying things get worse at times haven't explained why. I think it will take years to build, even if we started now. Freakshow doesn't push for it. We just don't have the resources yet." She shakes her head and gets back to her earlier train of thought.

"The reason I ask about long term goals is to think about whether we need to be planning houses for any of you in the near term. Guess it doesn't matter if we keep a couple of the tents from being put to other purposes."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday June 7th, 2020 10:59:57 PM
Caelwyn thanks Smithra for the kind words. "But don't use resources on us - we will likely be traveling on and off for some time, sorting everything out. We should be fine for now."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday June 8th, 2020 6:41:47 AM
"Eventually, it would be nice to have a permanent place to call home, but like Cae said don't worry about our needs over much, we are far from a priority since we never know how we will be staying when we are here".

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday June 8th, 2020 11:46:07 AM

Akuno thinks heavily on the idea of a home. A base, maybe, or a camp. Her home was somewhere else, she was just still looking for it.

"I'm with Caylwyn. If something gets set up here, we can probably handle it ourselves!"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday June 8th, 2020 12:56:28 PM
"Home is where the pack is." Bigby thinks, no wait he said it outloud. Sometimes Bigby wonders if he is losing grasp on his world.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday June 8th, 2020 6:21:14 PM
Sol nods and reflects Caelwyn's words.

"With the limited supplies, it is not worth using them on us who may not be here at all for weeks at a time. As and when it comes to it, if there are enough spare supplies that are not needed elsewhere for infrastructure, or the homes of other people, then I am certain we would like a home to call our own. But until such time, I am perfectly happy staying in my tent. Even if it is a little heavy to keep carrying around..."

He smiles.

"But that is why Grindar is such a good friend, he does not mind carrying it for me."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday June 8th, 2020 10:54:27 PM
Thorondir, glad to be part of an autonomous collective agrees with the rest. "Please do not waste precious resources on us, we can provide for ourselves." He looks around and his eyes rest on Akuno "Well, I'm sure we all do our best to provide for our own needs. At any rate, I'm sure we can help each other in turn."

He looks up at Aewen flies high above, and has a longing to join him. "I'm getting a bit hungry, so I will join Aewen soon for a hunt if nothing is pressing that we should be doing. Keeping ones strength is important, you must take care of yourself if you are to help others."

If nothing is pressing, Thorondir wildshapes into an eagle and joins Aewen for a hunt for their midday meal.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, evening
Tuesday June 9th, 2020 1:09:44 AM
"Very well." Smithira takes everyone at their words that they will sort out their place in time. She offers them a small lunch before returning to her work. Thorondir prefers hunting. The rest of the group can spend the afternoon hunting or pursuing other endeavors.

That evening at supper, Smithera asks for everyone's attention before the food is served. "A few nights ago, we started talking about forming a town council. We need to talk about that again. After we eat." Supper is served as normal then, although of course many of the conversations turn on the subject of a council.

The dynamic of the meal is a bit changed from the previous evenings, though. Smithira sits wih the insiders, Ahyoka, Freakshow, and Needle, rather than walking among the tables. Taggert walks the tables, though, as does Sprocket. After the meal, Sprocket announces that he has talked to everyone and feels that the appropriate number on the council is three. This is not a large community to justify a large number. When no one voices objections, he goes on to recommend that the council choose a mayor who is not one of their number. This causes some consternation.

"But that means we can't pick the best people for the council."

"Well, it means that anyone who wants to be mayor would have to remove themself from election for council. There's still enough good people available for council."

Smithira speaks up. "Like I said the other night, the council needs to pull us together, not split us apart. I'm not sure I see how your proposal will do that, Sprocket."

Sprocket responds, "Pick people you trust to set the rules we will live by for the council. But let them find someone to enforce those rules who doesn't also make them. I've seen good people do bad things when they were given too much authority."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday June 9th, 2020 6:56:10 AM
Grindar isn't sure what to say about the mayor council thing, though Sprockets words make sense. The truth is, he is more then a little tired of politics, and would rather be doing just about anything then talking politics again. He, of course keeps that to himself and acts respectfully, only speaking if called upon.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=19 ;
Tuesday June 9th, 2020 9:15:36 AM
"I see what Sprocket is saying" Caelwyn says. "There should be some separation between council and mayor, so that both groups can hold each other accountable. If they are the same people, that makes things difficult." He takes a moment to think. "Was there a particular candidate people had in mind?"

In all he says, Caelwyn tries to exude calm and respect. Now was the key moment, if ever, to make sure cool heads prevailed.

Diplomacy 19

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=18 ;
Tuesday June 9th, 2020 11:05:24 AM
OOC: I had the view set to 2 days instead of last post & thought we were still waiting on our DM post. That's my bad. Sorry guys.

"Best people is a pretty vague term. The best folk to make the laws ain't necessarily the best folk to carry'em out," 'Lil opines. "Cae's right. If the executive folk and legislative folk start working too closely together, that's a recipe for...well, tyranny's a strong word, but you get what I'm sayin'."

She knows this stuff's important, but she sure wishes these folk would come to an agreement.

Diplomacy aid other: 18. +2 to Caelwyn's 19 if that's a success.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday June 9th, 2020 7:03:09 PM
Thorondir shakes his head and looks about the room. This is all too much for me.
He sits and reflects quietly on what he has gotten himself into, wishing that he was outside in a grove of trees somewhere.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday June 9th, 2020 7:54:15 PM
Bigby just listens in and stays silent. Not sure what to add at this moment. He thinks to himself sometimes its just best to make a decision and live with it. Say something about Bigby, say he's practical.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, evening d20=2 ; d20=1 ; d12=1 ;
Tuesday June 9th, 2020 11:42:04 PM
Buoyed by Caelwyn and 'Lil's endorsement, and despite grumblings that Smithera's the clear choice for mayor, the townsfolk agree with Sprocket's proposal that they elect three council members who will select a mayor.

Perception DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {Broag seems to be vaguely worried with the proposal, or perhaps just perplexed, but he makes no argument against it.}

Sprocket calls for nominations for council members, and says everyone should vote Yea or Nay on each candidate. Those that get the most Yeas would be the ones elected.

The dwarves nominate Broag, who immediately declines. Also nominated are Jarl, Smithera, Sprocket, Nicephorus, Freakshow, and Kuiper. Each is asked if they would accept the position, and all eventually agree. It takes Freakshow quite a while to make his decision. Several people seem upset when Smithera makes hers.

Sense Motive DC 7: Highlight to display spoiler: {Broag clearly would rather be mayor. People have realized that Smithera won't be mayor if she's on the council.}

Sprocket starts to say more, but Taggert steps in. "Seeing that Sprocket is now a candidate, I think someone else should lead the vote. Perhaps. . . Akuno, could you see if nominations are complete, give people a chance to speak, and take the votes? I think we can all agree you have no ties here that would lead you to favor anyone." Half the people seem confused when Taggert asks that, but no one argues with what he says.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=16 ; d20+1=14 ;
Wednesday June 10th, 2020 2:38:30 AM
Sol says nothing, but has a slightly concerned look on his face, his lips pressed together after a few moments he visibly relaxes, but it seems more through force of will than through what he's seeing.

He says nothing as they continue on their way of deciding council members, he doesn't wish to get involved since his ideas are apparently not what this settlement is looking for.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday June 10th, 2020 7:39:12 AM
Grindar continues to keep his thoughts to himself. At this point he would rather be facing the mutant horde again than sitting in this meeting.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=8 ; d20+2=7 ;
Wednesday June 10th, 2020 9:18:32 AM
Caelwyn tries to keep a smile from his face as he feels the frustration growing among his friends. They were not used to this sort of thing, while Caelwyn had spent a bit of time learning about the nuances of politics. It would be settled soon enough.

He approves of Taggert's intentions, but forces himself to remain passive when Akuno's name is mentioned. She is an outsider, sure, and probably makes sense to lead the vote. He just hopes she won't do anything too ridiculous this time...

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=13 ;
Wednesday June 10th, 2020 1:22:43 PM
Perception fails. Sense motive autopasses.

'Lil ain't sure about people bein' asked to vote out in the open like this. A person's gotta be able to choose their vote without worryin' about repercussions. The room's already sick'a this, though. She decides it's best to address it for future elections.

She's also pretty sure the fact that Broag wants to be in power means he shouldn't be. 'Lil ain't lived much, but she's learned the folks what want to lead, usually shouldn't.

She notices some confusion about Taggert's suggestion. "Good idea. I'm sure Sprocket would keep things fair, but folks who are up for vote shouldn't be in charge of countin'em." She has no doubt Akuno will take things as serious as they need to be. This room could use a little less seriousness, frankly...

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=16 ; d20=2 ;
Wednesday June 10th, 2020 4:03:03 PM
Bigby taps his claws while waiting. great another person who wants power. He's going to be a problem, Bigby thinks to himself. But sometimes things have to play out how they need to play out. He just wished this process would hurry up.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=9 ; d20+4=13 ;
Wednesday June 10th, 2020 4:31:40 PM
Thorondir fidgets with the hem of his cloak as he sits and listens to what is happening. Clearly these people will do what they want, why he is here has him a bit confused. The power struggle seems like it will work out, as they always seem to do. Though rarely for the good. Luckily, Thorondir has his own interests though and waits patiently.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=19 ; d20=7 ; d20+9=13
Wednesday June 10th, 2020 5:53:00 PM

Akuno pops awake suddenly, her daydream of fish and yarn so quickly interrupted. Did someone say her name? What was happening? Something about leading a vote?

Climbing to the top of her floating disk, if only to be seen better, she takes stock of the room.

Perception at -1: 18
Sense Motive at -1: 6

"Well, of course I can be partial. The Lady Akuno won't be accused of being anything other than a most moderate moderator!" She takes a moment to consider the repercussions of everything going on. She was asked to do two things, collect votes - and make sure everyone has a chance to say their piece.

"We have our list of six nominees. Broag doesn't want to be on the council, despite being nominated." She gives him a big dumb smile. "Is it because of our chat the other day about you being a good follower if you aren't made leader?" She scratches behind her ear. "If so, it's mighty honest of you to defer to others. Public service is always made better by people who serve others instead of themselves." Akuno wets her lips, then says proudly. "You've got the cleanest beard this side of Burfell, Master Broag!"

Diplomacy: 13 (If needed to avoid offense, or to try and convince him to be honest in his motivations)

She uses a prestidigitation spell to make temporary writing that everyone can see. She writes down the candidate names.

"Remember! A council member is someone who you think can represent a number of people in the community by making the rules that people want to see. It should be someone who connects with others. A councilperson isn't always the best leader, instead they should strive to be the best representative of the people they are working for. So if you want someone to help you catch a fish, vote for the fisherman. If you want someone to help you build a wall, vote for the builder. This council should represent your needs."

She takes a big breath.

"So first, as Taggert asked, does anyone have anything to say before you vote? It can be anything, as long as its helpful! Please take turns! Lets start with the closest to me, then work our way around!"

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, evening
Wednesday June 10th, 2020 9:00:37 PM
Before Akuno is done saying her piece, Broag is up and shouting. It isn't clear exactly what he calls her -- the dwarves later claim it meant "insolent piece of fluff" -- but it breaks up the meeting for a while. During this time, Gruff gets up and says something to one of Broag's friends, then leaves.

It is a few minutes before people get settled again to listen to what's going on. His friends manage to calm Broag down, although it looks for a while as if he's about to leave. Akuno is forced to repeat her advice on what to look for in a candidate before the speaking starts.

The speaking boils down to a number of people speaking for or against the candidates. It gets repetitive. Jarl is a well respected farmer. His no-nonsense attitude and willingness to talk have endeared more than offended. Smithera is widely liked, and has been de facto leader as long as the Sentinels have been gone. She quells an undercurrent of thought that if she isn't elected she would be mayor by saying that she would rather be setting agendas than administering them -- she doesn't see mayor as a better role. Sprocket was the leader of his hometown before the bloodgrass destroyed it, and would already have been here too if he hadn't convinced people to follow Smithera instead. Nicephorus is a centaur, respected for his knowledge but sometimes a bit temperamental. Everyone knows Freakshow, who has been helping the community since they arrived and a big part of how they have prospered. Kuiper is the best hunter in town, and quick to help anyone.

About half an hour through the discussion, Gruff returns with a small crate. This places him last in speaking -- a couple of hours later. "I have here enough ingots for everyone to take one. I've also got a box and a barrel. If we set them behind a covered table, people can walk past and drop an ingot in one or the other without worrying about offending anyone. But we'll have to count each candidate before moving to the next."

After a bit more debate, that gets general agreement. Gruff hands out ingots to everyone, including Caelwyn, 'Lil, Grindar, Sol, and Bigby. There is no debate about including everyone who made the trip from Hook City, and Grindar has proven himself consistently ever since he helped the first settlers escape the halflings.

It is decided that the barrel is a no vote, and the box a yes vote.

=====
This post, you may speak on behalf of one or more candidates, or not, knowing that your opinons carry weight. Please state how you vote.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday June 11th, 2020 6:02:34 AM
Due to the fact that Grindar would rather see Smithira as the mayor, he doesn't vote for her. he easily votes for Freakshow and Sprocket, but since he hasn't had a chance to get to know them, he struggles to make his 3rd choice, but in the end he chooses Kuiper. He based this decision on two things, 1) he is a fellow hunter, and as such the half-orc feels he can better understand his thoughts, and more importantly, 2) his reputation of helping others is something that Grindar admires.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday June 11th, 2020 8:42:07 AM
Sol thinks for some time, but also thinks that it would be a good idea to make Smithera as Mayor. He also votes for Jarl, Sprocket and Freakshow. He seems content with his choices, but doesn't say anything, as while his voice may carry weight, he doesn't have the eloquence to make his case well enough.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=2 ;
Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:02:43 AM

Akuno hums happily to herself and watches people drop their ingots. She keeps an eye out to make sure anyone isn't doing anything suspicious.

Perception -1: 1

For a few seconds anyways. When boredom creeps in, she starts using her prestidigitation spell to draw little fishes in the air.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:07:03 AM
'Lil puts her hand on Akuno's shoulder. It's not gentle. It's not painful either, but it's a steady hand, one that grips the recipient's attention.

"Dear, ya need to understand right now that what ya think you know about dwarves ain't right. Every time you've opened your mouth, you've managed to piss'em off. You aught to start treatin' them like people, not stereotypes."

She votes for Smithira, Freakshow, and Sprocket since Smithira she said she'd rather be on the council than mayor. She ain't got nothing against the rest, but she ain't got to know'em. She trusts those three to do the job right.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:21:42 AM
Bigby votes Kuiper, Freakshow and Sprocket. Hopefully Smithira becomes mayor. Hopfeully this doesn't backfire he thinks. But hey Bigby wasn't one for thinking too long on decisions. Better to make it and live with a mistake than to live in fear of not making a decision.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday June 11th, 2020 12:25:17 PM

Her smile never falters, nor does she stop drawing fish with her spell.

"I imagine that it has less to do with a beard reference..", she says, a bit cooly, "...and more to do with putting the thought in peoples heads that he fancies himself too good for the council, but worthy of being the mayor."

She lets the implication hang between the two of them. 'Lil had made her distaste for Broag in a leadership role known, nearly ver batim in what Akuno had said aloud. It was up to 'Lil to decide whether she thought the faux pas was intentional or not.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:15:13 PM
Caelwyn would rather see Smithera as mayor, so he does not vote for her. She may not want it, but she seems like the person for the job. He also has a sneaking suspicion that Broag has declined to run for council in the hopes of being made mayor...something he is not sure is a good idea.

He casts his votes for Jarl, Sprocket, and Freakshow. He feels that these three have cool heads and proper temperaments for this position.

He adds his own words to Akuno in a low voice, building on what 'Lil said. "Akuno, I am sure you mean well, but that was most unwise. Speaking out in public like that about a very sensitive, private discussion we had with Broag? It's no wonder he was upset, it sounded as though you were insulting him and mocking him in front of everyone. If this settlement is to survive, we must be as united as possible...and making comments like that will only split us apart. You must learn to be more calculated in what you say. I don't meant this unkindly, but you have to do better in the future - it could cause serious problems."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:28:33 PM
Thorondir watches with minimal interest. People tend to put their trust in those who say the right things, only to have the realization that power corrupts and the leaders only build their own coffers. When he sees folks reprimanding Akuno, he says "You are doing fine, folks that can't take straight talk probably aren't meant to lead anyway. You just be you and it will all work out."

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, evening d20=6 ; d20=11 ; d20=2 ; d20=5 ; d20=20 ; d20=18 ;
Friday June 12th, 2020 12:17:02 AM

The votes for each candidate are counted...

Jarl 28
Smithera 47
Sprocket 37
Nicephoros 25
Freakshow 35
Kuiper 35

There's a bit of grumbling at the tie between Freakshow and Kuiper, because it means going through all this again.

"Not at all," says Sprocket. "I'll be going with the Sentinels soon to look in on the boat that's being built. Freakshow and Kuiper can both serve while I'm gone, and we'll sort it out when I'm back." When people still question this result, Sprocket points out that over half the people voted for each of them, and he wasn't that far ahead. Eventually, it's agreed.

As people stream out, it's already late. Sprocket approaches the party, "I can see some of you are already itching to be away, but this may delay me a few days. Is that all right?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday June 12th, 2020 12:12:51 PM
'Lil sighs. "At what cost, Akuno?" is all she has to add to the matter.

She's happy that folks listened to Smithira's wishes and respected them. With those three...four?...on the council, they'd pick a good mayor. 'Lil was fine waiting a few days so long as she didn't have'ta fill them with politics.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday June 12th, 2020 9:54:48 PM
Glad that he is not involved, Thorondir just waits for it all to end.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Saturday June 13th, 2020 6:47:18 AM
Sol seems satisfied with the outcome, but he says nothing, as he is happy to let the settlers figure out exactly what they want to do now.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 8, morning
Saturday June 13th, 2020 9:58:28 AM
A few days pass without event as the Sentinels stay away from politics for a while.

Bigby, Thorondir, and sometimes Grindar pass it by hunting -- all three are invited to join the village's hunters, although Bigby and Thorondir tend to go off on their own. There are almost ten hunters and twice as many farmers who work full time on feeding the place. With the three druids helping, they are able to build a little surplus despite the occasional loss of Kuiper.

At first, 'Lil and Caelwyn get questions from the forming council, but those taper off quickly. Perhaps council members sense a lack of enthusiasm for the subject. They both still hear enough to learn the major decisions being discussed. Plus, everyone will be able to learn any specifics from Sprocket once they're travelling.

Akuno is left to her own devices. It becomes clear very quickly that Freakshow and the entire dwarvish population of the place dislike her. Taggert quickly becomes wrapped up in council business and starts spending less time around her. Perhaps the surprise is the slight scolding that Ahyoka gives Freakshow about Akuno one day, but Akuno can't follow all the talk about hands, sun, shadows, piggies, and walking.

Happy to have someone who can keep up with him, Needle puts Sol to work. They spend the days writing notes and making sketches as Needle tries to figure out how to explain some of the things that he just takes for granted from his upbringing to people who are well-meaning but sunbaked.

Then, at dinner a couple of days later, Sprocket says he's ready to leave in the morning if everyone else is.

When morning comes, Sprocket is ready at sun-up. Taggert is also there to see everyone off. Bigby and Grindar are sure they can retrace the path the party followed on the previous trip.

=====

Please let me know how the group is arranged while walking through the grass, including Sprocket and the animals. Remember that it is difficult terrain for all but the druids.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday June 14th, 2020 10:39:35 PM
Caelwyn readies himself for the journey, silently communing with Domi before they set out. He offers to take the rear of the column, as he has sharp eyes and solid armor, and can hopefully keep them safe in case of an ambush.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Sunday June 14th, 2020 11:01:02 PM
Thorondir is glad that the meetings are finally over and they will have a chance to get out into the Sargrass.
"Well, it seems you have yourselves a name for your group, Sargrass Sentinels is correct? Do you still not have a leader, even for a journey that may prove perilous? Who do I talk to about how I may help? In case it isn't clear, my companion is Aewen the eagle that is circling above us. At least once a day, I like to wildshape into an eagle and join her. We are able to see much from up high. I can do it for about 4 hours at a time, and can do it twice before it requires some rest for me. I can also walk through the Sargrass without hinderance, and I can do so quietly without leaving a trace. I also have a few things I can do if we meet with hostility, but I'm not built for front line combat. Please let me know who is organizing this outing and I will try and coordinate with her."

Thorondir will do as requested from the leader. If no leader emerges, he will fly in the mornings with Aewen and walk during the middle of the day, typically behind the group staying as quiet as possible. The evenings he will return to the sky again before they camp.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Sunday June 14th, 2020 11:10:22 PM
'Lil figures Cae or Grindar will take front. She's right behind in second position.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday June 15th, 2020 2:42:55 AM

Akuno sets herself in the middle.

"I've also got plenty of servants to help me in a fight. Hopefully it doesn't come down to that! I've never even been in one before." Of course, there's the issue of walking through grass taller than she is. "Ney, ney, does anyone know how long we plan to travel each day? I need to get my magic planned out right."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday June 15th, 2020 5:39:14 AM
“As in the past, I will take point, with Llew at my side”, Grindar offers, “If Bigby and Wolfgang wish to join me as they have before, that would be fine, though I won’t speak for my canine friends”.

OOC... I am without a computer until this weekend, due to the fact that I left my laptop in the backseat of my car, and my wife took it to spend the week with her daughter. Please bare with me this week as I post on my phone.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday June 15th, 2020 12:49:46 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang happily join Grindar and Llew leading the front or nearby. Bigby nods to the idea of Aewen bing our eyes from above. As for leader, Bigby knew that wasn't for him.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday June 15th, 2020 10:49:22 PM
Caelwyn readies his shield and trident, prepared to listen and watch for any sign of trouble from behind.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 10, evening d20=9 ;
Monday June 15th, 2020 11:39:28 PM
The morning passes pleasantly. As the day wears on, however, everyone is reminded how still and stifling the grasses are. Rattledam was in an area where the grasses don't grow, and at least had breezes. Here there are none. It is a hot, miserable day of pushing through the grass. And although nothing sizeable menaces the Sentinels, the flies are out in full force. It's as if any sweat that doesn't evaporate is an oasis to the insects. No biting flies, but many small, distracting ones.

The trip back to the Stone Temple should take 10 or 12 days, from what folks recall. The first few, aside from being miserable, are uneventful. Everyone is tired of bugs in their eyes. By the evening of the third day out, there are occassional gimpses of the mountains through the grasses, still far away.

As evening comes, Grindar and Bigby see a strange collection of grasses up ahead that are bulbous at their bases, six of the plants arranged in a neat circle. Each bulb is bigger than most of the party members. Before long, everyone is aware of it.

Knowledge, Nature -- DC 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {This is bulbgrass. The party has encountered it before.
The bulbs make a nice shelter. Many of the creatures of the Sargrass are repelled by the smell of them, so travellers use them for relatively safe camps. Freakshow has said that Harvesters plant it around their villages.}

"What an odd looking plant," says Sprocket.

=====

Should have asked earlier about a watch rotations, too. Here's what I gathered for a marching order from yesterday's posts: Marching Order. Let me know if it needs correction.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+5=17 ;
Tuesday June 16th, 2020 2:37:59 AM
((OoC: Yeah Sol would be in the middle))

Sol, is exhausted and sweating profusely, leading him to be a haven for the annoying insects, so he seems to constantly be swatting at flies, both real and possibly imagined.

"This is remarkable difficult..." he says between laborious breaths. "I do not remember it being this difficult the last tame we made this trip..."

Even though he is not carrying very much, as Grindar carries most of his belongings, it is still clearly very difficult for Sol and his very slight frame.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+6=21 ;
Tuesday June 16th, 2020 6:43:55 AM
Knowledge Nature 21

“Ahh bulb grass, this would be a good place to make camp!” Grindar says, “Most creatures here are repulsed by their scent, and if I remember correctly, Freakshow once said his people plant it around their villages for protection!” The half-orc is drenched in his own sweat, and more then a bit tired, he joking says to his fellow Druids, “I thought walking through stuff like this was supposed to be easy for us, or am I just not experienced enough?”

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+4=22 ;
Tuesday June 16th, 2020 1:44:06 PM
Knowledge Nature 22

"Yes, this is bulb grass." he says to Grindar. "It will make a good place to rest tonight."

Thorondir calls Aewen down to him, and the bird settles on the edge of a large bulb of grass.

"The trick in walking through this grass is to not fight it, move with it and you will find it is easier. It is also useful to ask the plants to let you pass as well."

Looking around at the group and the lack of leadership he adds: "Do you not feel that the lack of someone coordinating the group movement through treacherous terrain may lead to peril? I have offered my services and asked where you would like me and I have had no response. Now it is again time to sleep, and nobody is coordinating the watch. Aewen and I can be self sufficient, but I would like to be of service as I was requested to do. Unless I hear different, I will rest for a time as the sun sets while Aewen watches over me. Then, Aewen will rest and I will keep watch. That should provide us both with the rest needed. I am happy to deviate from this if you have a request."

Thorondir finds a place within the bulb grass and makes a spot for himself and Aewen.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=20 ;
Tuesday June 16th, 2020 2:09:15 PM
knowledge nature 20. "nice. Time for rest. I"m not the leader Thorondir, but your services helping us through treacherous terrain is always welcome." Bigby and Wolfgang always take midnight as before. When midnight watch hits, they howl at the moon.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20=6 ;
Tuesday June 16th, 2020 3:30:38 PM
'Lil looks at the plants. "They supposed to grow in a circle like this, or ya think something planted them this way." She ponders Thorondir's advice about asking plants to let'em pass, then wonders if maybe the plants just wanted to grow in a circle.

She ain't real on board with his talk of leading, though. "Think it's best we all stay equal. Yea, it's time to camp, but how long do ya think it's gonna take to set a watch schedule. Besides, if I wanted to follow someone's orders, I woulda joined Hook City's guard, not come to this place." 'Lil usually takes last watch.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday June 16th, 2020 6:36:23 PM
Grindar isn’t fussy about when he takes his watch so he says, “I’ll fill in where ever needed, I have no preference of time, when it comes to night watch, but unless someone can think of a better time slot for me, I’ll take the watch just before Lil”.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday June 16th, 2020 7:01:00 PM

Akuno spends most of her travels on her floating disk, sledding along happily behind her Unseen Servants. From time to time she chastises one about not avoiding the bigger bumps, but she's mostly pleasant.

She regulates her temperature with judicial application of Roses Temperature Control. To some, it might be a waste of magic. To her, it's practical. Princesses shouldn't have to sweat, and her lacy dresses are heavy.

Regarding watch rotations? "It might be best to pair me with someone who can keep a good eye on things. I spend most of my time focusing on the things I can control around me, and I'm not great at noticing what's going on around me." Translation? Her perception score is a -1. Her servants can help her partner though!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday June 16th, 2020 11:38:54 PM
"You are welcome to keep watch with me." Thorondir says to Akuno.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 10, evening d20=20 ; d20=6 ; d20=1 ;
Tuesday June 16th, 2020 11:46:02 PM
The group sets up camp among the bulbgrass. Aewen, Llew, and Wolfgang seem a bit subdued around the stuff, which does have a distinctive aroma. But they follow their companions to the campsite willingly enough. After camp is set up, Sprocket makes an offhand comment that causes everyone to realize that there are fewer bugs here, too.

The night passes quietly until the third watch, when Llew gives a start. He's tense for a few moments, then relaxes. Shortly after that he's softly purring to himself.

Morning comes without event. Everyone agrees over breakfast that it was better than the previous nights since leaving Rattledam. Not that that's saying much.

Grindar and Bigby: Highlight to display spoiler: {After whatever breakfast conversation there is, please provide perception rolls for yourselves and your animals.}

=====
OOC: I didn't realize that there was a link to a watch roster on the Sargrass Plains game page in the Woldepedia. Or that it was last updated prior to finding Rattledam. If someone wants to upate it again, that's great. For now I'll use:
1st watch -- Thorondir, Caelwyn (assumed), Sol (assumed), Akuno (maybe)
2nd watch -- Thorondir, Bigby, Wolfgang
3rd watch -- Aewen, Grindar, Llew
3rd watch -- Aewen, 'Lil, Sprocket

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+9=23 ; d20+6=7 ;
Wednesday June 17th, 2020 6:42:16 AM
Grindar eats his breakfast in relative silence, Llew’s mannerisms from the night before has him perplexed, finally he casts Speak with Animals, and asks Llew what it was all about. He decides to keep an eye out for anything unusual, and asks Llew to do likewise, however, Llew is distracted by a blade of grass moving in the breeze, and like a true pussy cat, he can’t help himself, and must play with it, batting it back and forth with his paws.

Grindar’s perception 23
Llew’s perception 7

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=13 ;
Wednesday June 17th, 2020 11:02:55 AM

Akuno is happy to partner with Thorondir for a little while. At first, his direct interpretations of what she said bothered her, until she realized she is also a direct person. He also didn't judge her excesses really, he just noted them for what they were. And after a whole day of getting scolded for Akuno being Akuno, his support the day before was more appreciated than she let on.

During breakfast, she pokes around at whatever Llew is watching. She hadn't paid much attention to the pretty kitty before, but he was amazing to watch. He was also bigger than her. She sniffs the air near the big cat, and her tail flicks back and forth. She looks back at Grindar. He had been pretty even handed with her so far. She wasn't sure he would mind her getting to know Llew, but asking would be awkward and getting yelled out would be worse. So instead, when she thinks he isn't watching, she rapid fires a piece of trail jerky from her pack in front of Llew, and watches to see if he likes it.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday June 17th, 2020 11:51:12 AM
'Lil ain't no nature person, but she wonders if the stuff in those bulbs could be taken with them. Maybe it could spread like some kinda ointment? She asks Thorondir, figuring he'd know.

"So, that bulb grass. Ya think if we keep some with us it'd keep the bugs away? If nothing else, we should harvest some to take back to Rattledam with us...if it'll keep. Afraid I don't know much about any of that."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday June 17th, 2020 1:10:31 PM
Grindar watches Akuno out of the corner of his eye, watches her slyly give Llew some jerky, and watches Llew devour the dried meat. A chuckle begins to brew, until he has no choice but to let it out, in a full on laugh, finally he says, “Llew won’t bite, and neither will I, he’s a pack mate, don’t be afraid to get to know him, we could all stand to know one another better!”

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday June 17th, 2020 1:55:55 PM
"Well, I know what bulb grass is and a bit about it. I'm not too keen on the nature of plants though, my interest lies mostly with the animal kingdom." Thorondir says in response to 'Lil. "I can check to see if it is poisonous though."

Thorondir casts Detect Poison and checks the bulb grass. If it is not poisonous, he will then:

"Mostly if you don't have the lore you can learn a lot about plants from careful observations though." Thorondir takes a knife and makes a small incision into a bulb. He takes a small pea-sized amount and smears it onto his arm with the knife blade. "We will find out soon if it causes a skin reaction I suppose."

If no reaction, he will look for a few small bulbs to take along, trying to get the root as well so they can be planted.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=16 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+11=17 ;
Wednesday June 17th, 2020 3:04:34 PM
perception for Bigby 16, perception for Wolfgang 21.

Bigby and Wolfgang eat breakfast as well and look at the grass where Llew is observing. "Seems Llews found a friend he says to Akuno and Grindar." The pack has grown into something he was very comfortable with: anmial lovers.

Bigby wonders if the cutting the bulb idea will work. "It seems worth a shot." He nods at Thorondir and 'Lil. knowledge nature for the bulb question.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday June 17th, 2020 11:10:20 PM
Caewlyn is happy to participate in the first watch. He winces as Thorondir smears the plant on his arm, hoping it won't cause a negative reaction, and chuckles at the interaction between Grindar, Akuno, and Llew.

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 10, evening
Wednesday June 17th, 2020 11:44:46 PM
Grindar:
Speak with animals: Highlight to display spoiler: {When you speak with Llew, he says he heard something last night. But it was out there and not getting close. And he was enjoying things.}

Thorondir:
Detect poison: The bulbs are poisonous. You would not want to eat them.
Wisdom check DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {Eating the bulb is more likely to make you sick (nauseated or worse) than to kill you. Prolonged, direct contact with the sap might also have some effect.}

Bigby and Thorondir:
Add a Perception check and a Know Nature check, combined DC 42: Highlight to display spoiler: {If the checks are successful, the character is able to find one six-lobed bulb of a suitable size to carry.}

While the druids fuss over Llew and the bulbgrass, the rest of the party packs up and gets ready to go. (Ok, Akuno might be doing more fussing over Llew than packing.) And 'Lil, at least, is curious about what her friends determine. Caelwyn seems more worried about it.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday June 18th, 2020 2:45:57 AM
Sol wakes up late, as usual, eats some breakfast while packing, and watches what the others do with the bulb grass, he begins making notes in his diary.

"Perhaps we should just bring a bulb with us, and see how long it lasts? That way, if we decide to bring some back to Rattledam we know how often we would need to send out parties to collect more if we plan on using it as a defensive measure."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+9=13 ; d20+6=20 ;
Thursday June 18th, 2020 6:44:24 AM
Grindar packs his things, scratches Llew behind the ears, and takes his position at the head of the party he keeps his eyes on the horizon, and instructs Llew to do likewise.

Grindar’s perception 13
Llew’s perception 20

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+3=5 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+6=9 ;
Thursday June 18th, 2020 2:31:33 PM
Looking at the bulb grass Thorondir puts his knife away. "It does appear to be poisonous, best not to cut into it. I don't know if it is only toxic if you eat it or if it can harm you otherwise. The fact that animals avoid it should tell you something."

Thorondir looks around trying to find a small bulb to collect, but it seems like they have all grown too large to carry.

Wisdom check 5
Perception + Knowledge nature = 32

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday June 18th, 2020 3:30:38 PM

After being encouraged by Grindar, Akuno spends quite a bit of time kneeling by the big cat, her lace and underskirts spread out as evenly as possible over the grasses. She pokes him from time to time, and reads him stories featuring cats or shows him pictures from her picture book. At some point, she asks him aloud how he would feel about wearing a vest made for a cat as big as himself.

When its time to pack up camp, Akuno finds herself facing a choice. She mumbles to herself. "..would be easier... two servants? ... maybe I should... might cut my hands! .. grrr..!" At some point she reaches a decision, and starts picking up trash and helping clear camp, though she holds it all at full arms length, like it might try and bite her.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=28 ; d20+11=27 ;
Thursday June 18th, 2020 4:00:15 PM
perception: 28, knowledge nature 27 +55. Bigby points out that there is a 6 lobed bulb that we should be able to carry with us. Bigby goes over to pick it out and asks Thorondir if he would do the honor of looking after it. "Looks like we got one," he says to the party.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday June 18th, 2020 5:49:20 PM
"Ah well. Still think it'd be good to plant some 'round New Rattledam to help keep critters away. Maybe some got seeds on'em?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday June 18th, 2020 11:34:42 PM
"Perhaps another time we could make a large scale effort to replant some of these bulbs? Maybe once the ship is built? As you say, they would be a useful natural defense..."

DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 11, morning
Friday June 19th, 2020 12:12:59 AM
Bigby and Thorondir wrap the bulb and safely stow it away. Sol, 'Lil and Caelwyn debate the benefit, agreeing the bulbs would be good around Rattledam but envisioning different timing. Sprocket also seems interested. Akuno helps out. And Grindar gets ready to lead the group through another day. When everything is prepared, and everyone is ready, they set out in the order they've become accustomed to these last few days.

The party has not gone far before Grindar shouts out a warning, and Wolfgang lets out a growl. Bigby stops short, but Llew is distracted and walks right into the area Grindar has noticed. Everyone else is far enough back. Llew has walked straight into a large but nearly invisible web, and gotten tangled.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+10=25 ; d8+7=10 ; d20+9=25 ;
Friday June 19th, 2020 6:37:18 AM
Seeing his companion walk head long into the web, Grindar rushes to his side, and before he begins trying to cut him free, he takes a good look around looking for the creator of the web. (perception 25) If he sees an enemy he will lash out with a two handed chop, if not he will attack the web. Hits AC 25 for 10 damage.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=7 ;
Friday June 19th, 2020 8:37:38 AM
Sol, seeing this ruckus immediately brings his staff up and into a defensive position, and starts looking around to see if he can spot what might have caused the webbing.

((Perception 7))

However, being so distracted by his thoughts previously, he notices very little.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=5 ;
Friday June 19th, 2020 1:31:12 PM

Akuno helps Grindar search, keeping an eye out as best she can. Admittedly, that's never been her strength. (Aid another, fail. Result 4).

She reaches into her Handy Haversack, and calls forward both a tanglefoot bag and a mage armor scroll. Readied Action: Read Mage Armor scroll if an enemy appears.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=11 ; d20+5=11 ;
Friday June 19th, 2020 3:15:57 PM
Upon hearing the shout, Thorondir wild shapes into an eagle and joins Aewen up in the air. He circles around the place that Llew is trapped in the web, looking for the spider that created it.

Thorondir's Perception 11
Aewen's Perception 11

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=24 ; d8+3=11 ;
Friday June 19th, 2020 3:50:18 PM
'Lil's got a stabby weapon and a smashin' weapon. She don't have a slashy weapon, so she'll leave it to her dudes to slice Llew free.

She grabs Maya from her back and stands ready to stab anything with more than 4 legs.

Readied attack: Hit AC 24 for 11 damage

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=15 ; d20+7=22 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=10 ; d6+1=6 ;
Friday June 19th, 2020 5:48:55 PM
perception 15. Bigby will move up and use his claws to help out Llew out of the web. 22 claw att. dmg 5. Wolgang 10 bite att. dmg if hit 6.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, morning d20+6=10 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=16 ; d4=2 ; d4=4 ;
Friday June 19th, 2020 11:34:49 PM
Llew's struggles in the web attract the attention of a number of spiders that quickly rush to the movement. The spiders are too far into the webs for anyone but 'Lil to reach this round, so Grindar and Bigby are left freeing Llew. Bigby finds the webbing too stretchy to damage, but Grindar is able to clear it away with a mighty swing. Llew is free.

Akuno finds her two items, and can use them next round. Sol guardedly looks for the source of trouble. Caelwyn guards the rear. Sprocket goes digging in his pack.

'Lil stabs one of the spiders where it sits in the webs, wounding it severely and causing it to flee. There are five remaining. Three of the spiders attack Llew, two successfully.

Llew takes 6 HP damage and must make two fortitude saves vs DC 14.

Here is a map of what the party can see at ground level among the tall grasses.

Thorondir: Highlight to display spoiler: {From above you can see that the web stretches in a broken circle around the bulbgrass where the party spent the night. There must be more spiders than the party is dealing with.}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=17 ; d3=2 ;
Saturday June 20th, 2020 2:55:01 AM
Sol is going to try and cast Ray of Frost at the spiders nearest Llew, but that Grindar can't reach.

17 to hit, 3 points of Cold damage.

Sol does a rather uncharacteristic gesture of celebration as his Ray of Frost seems to connect, clearly he's happy to finally hit something rather than miss, as is what usually happens...

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+4=10 ; d20+4=19 ; d20+2=6 ; d20+2=9 ; d20+2=13 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+8=22 ; d8+5=8 ; d8+5=9 ;
Sunday June 21st, 2020 3:16:03 PM
Llew's fortitude saves 10, and 19 Failed

Llew roars in pain as the spider's fangs sink into his flesh. The lion will make a 5ft step to 22,K, then will lash out at the spider at 22,J in a full round attack left claw 6, right claw 9, bite 13. I assume the claws both miss, but bite does 5 damage if it hits.

Grindar will also perform a full round attack against 22,J. Primary hits AC 21 for 8 damage, Offhand hits AC 22 for 9 damage.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Sunday June 21st, 2020 3:42:59 PM

Akuno watches the spiders emerge and start swarming with wide eyes. She points a shaky hand at the mass of bugs. "G..g..gross! No way!" She takes a nervous step backwards, and considers the prospects of fleeing on foot. Alone. In the grass.

She turns back in time to see the spiders start biting Llew, and that is not okay. Finding her nerve, Akuno drops her two retrieved items, and barks a command to her unseen servant. "Pick those up!"

She starts a spell, droning in the long monotonous language of the school of conjuration, she begins casting a summoning spell.

-------
Akuno: Drop Items. (Free action)
Akuno: Start casting summon monster 2 spell. (Full round action.)
Akuno: 5 foot step to M20. (Or not? Are we in difficult terrain? If so 5 foots aren't allowed.)

Unseen Servant: Picks up Akuno's dropped items. (Double move.)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=15 ; d20+7=12 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+4=24 ; d6+1=3 ;
Sunday June 21st, 2020 6:39:04 PM
Ooc: Bigby is always mounted on Wolfgang.

Bigby and Wolfgagng five foot step to where Grindar was to attack the spider that Grindar is attacking. Claw att: 15, claw attack 12. dmg: if 15 hits: 4. Wolfgang bite: 24, dmg: 3.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=10 ;
Sunday June 21st, 2020 11:24:39 PM
Caelwyn is unable to move close enough to engage, and he is worried about more spiders attacking from behind. He moves closer to his companions in front, looking to help with his trident when possible, but also keeping an eye open for more spiders.

Perception 10

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+3=18 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=6 ; d4=4 ; d4=3 ;
Sunday June 21st, 2020 11:55:05 PM
Thorondir has spent so much time in eagle form that movements are second nature for him. He drops towards the spiders, but instead of going in to strike he pulls up and makes some motions with his talons.

Aewen drops fast on the spider at 17I.
Talon hit AC 18 damage 4, hit AC 22 damage 3, Bite hit AC 6

--------------
Using Natural Spell Thorondir casts Entangle centered on 27C (These are 5' squares and 7' on diagonal?)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=25 ; d8+3=9 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+6=20 ; d8+3=7 ; d8+3=10 ;
Monday June 22nd, 2020 4:06:04 PM
'Lil figures Llew can take a few more hits before she needs to worry 'bout healing him. Killing these spiders would do more to save his life than playing catch up while they bite'im.

It's another solid hit, hopefully driving another one off.

Attack spider at I20 - Hit AC 25 for 9 damage.

AoO if appropriate: Hit AC 23 for 7 damage and AC 20 for 10 damage.

Return to Stone Temple

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, morning d20+4=24 ; d20+4=15 ; d6=2 ; d20+2=19 ; d20+2=5 ; d4=4 ; d2=1 ;
Monday June 22nd, 2020 10:43:14 PM

The Sentinels begin to make the spiders regret attacking.

Llew fights back but, suddenly a little wobbly, misses. Grindar, Bigby, and Wolfgang combine their attacks on the same target to leave it nearly obliterated. Sol and 'Lil target the same spider, causing it to flee in an attempt to escape its wounds. Aewen also attacks a spider, which retreats as well.

Thorondir casts a spell; the grasses on the far side of the web, and some within it, begin writhing and twisting. Two spiders that were in the entangled area hasten out of it as the plants start moving. Thorondir is confident there will be no more spiders coming from that side.

Two spiders remain, the rest having been killed or fleeing into denser patches of the webs. One attacks Llew, the other Grindar. Llew suffers another 4 points of damage. Grindar is untouched. Neither of the remaining spiders has been wounded.

Llew is shaky and has lost (1) strength. Llew must also make another fortitude save vs DC 14.

Aewen has entered the webs in order to attack, and must make an escape artist attempt vs DC 12 to avoid becoming entangled.

Akuno finishes casting her spell while her servants hold the items she had dropped.

Caelwyn watches for more spiders, aware that this is an opportunity for them to attack from an unexpected angle. Sprocket seems to have found whatever he was looking for.

Here is a map.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=15 ;
Monday June 22nd, 2020 11:36:01 PM
Caelwyn moves forward a bit more, menacing the spider on the left flank. But he does not go too far from Sol and Sprocket, seeing that Grindar, Lil, and the others seem to have the situation in hand. He keeps an eye out for flanking enemies.

Perception 15

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+12=14 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=20 ; d8+5=12 ; d8+5=9 ;
Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 6:44:24 AM
Grindar offers Llew some encouragement with overcoming the spider's venom (hero point) and Llew barely makes the save (fort 14) Grindar then commands Llew to withdraw and the large cat retreats to 21,P, as the half-orc goes full round attack on the spider threatening him. primary hits AC 13 for 12 damage, and offhand hits AC 20 for 9 damage.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 12:02:08 PM
Using last roll from AoO that didn't happen.

'Lil pokes at the varmint attacking Llew, sure that Grindar can take care of himself a lot more than his critter can.

Attacking spider at I21, hitting AC 23 for 7 damage.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=18 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=10 ;
Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 2:30:41 PM
"Nice job Thorindir with the entangle spell."

Bigby and Wolfgang moves over to k23 to assist Grindar in attacking and attacks. 18 att: 5dmg. Wolfgang bites 10.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+2=9 ;
Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 3:32:54 PM
Again Thorondir swoops down and his eagle talons weave a spell (Entangle centered on I-9).

Aewen struggles to free herself, but is unable to do so. (Escape artist attempt = 9)

Thorondir as the eagle screeches at the party as he continues down towards Aewen, his screeches and whistles seem to be directed directly at Bigby. (plans on landing at H-17 when the time comes)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+6=14 ; d3=1 ; d20+6=16 ;
Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 9:18:44 PM

A small ball of fire, sentient, suddenly pops into being amongst the webs of the spiders. The fire elemental is given rudimentary directions. "Burn up the webs!", shouts Akuno. She hopes its flaming body is up to the task.

Akuno then shoots a small spatter of acid from her hands at the nearest spider. (Hit touch ac14. 1 damage.)

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, morning d20+4=22 ; d20+4=24 ;
Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 11:14:25 PM

Caelwyn moves forward a bit and continues to watch for trouble from other directions. Llew retreats from the spiders, while Grindar wounds another spider so badly that it tries to flee. Bigby claws it before it gets away, wounding it further. 'Lil attacks the other remaining spider, stabbing it neatly. Akuno flings a spell at the same spider. Thorondir has entangled the webs on the other side of the party, giving any spiders that might have been hidden there other things to worry about. Sprocket takes the chance to examine Llew's wounds.

The elemental Akuno summoned gleefully goes about following her command to burn the web. The web shrinks away rapidly as the flames get close, and the elemental is able to clear the space around it this round. Although the webs themselves do not burst into flame, there is a little sputtering from bits of debris that were caught in the web.

The spider fleeing from Grindar enters the entangled area, which hardly seems to slow it down so desperate is it to escape. The spider fleeing 'Lil is equally desperate.

Suddenly the Sentinels find themselves with no obvious enemies to deal with.

Aewen may make another check to escape the webs, this time at DC 16.

Here is a map.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday June 24th, 2020 2:32:06 AM
Sol sighs, looking around, trying to keep an eye out for other natural traps or enemies who might be approaching.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+10=29 ; d8+7=10 ;
Wednesday June 24th, 2020 6:08:12 AM
Grindar looks around, now that the spiders have fled. upon seeing Aewen trapped in the webbing, he rushes over to try to assist. he know it is going to take some time to cut the bird out, but he goes to work with a two-handed swing. hitting AC 29 for 10 damage. He calls out in a soothing voice to the struggling bird, "Hold on I'm coming, and will have you out of there in no time"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+2=22 ;
Wednesday June 24th, 2020 9:23:02 AM
Aewen struggles to free herself from the web as Grindar cuts a path towards her. At about that same time, Thorondir lands near her at H-17, and quickly reverts to his elven form. He reaches for his dagger when suddenly the eagle frees herself from the web and hops onto Thorondir's outstretched arm. Pulling bits of web from the feathers of his friend, Thorondir calls out to everyone:
"This web encircles our bulb grass campsite. There are many more spiders than they few you saw. Quickly, follow Grindar's lead and cut a path through this web and lets be gone before my entangle spells are done."

He motions for everyone to come help cut the path.
"Thanks Grindar for coming to the rescue of my friend, it will not be forgotten."

Looking towards Bigby he adds: "I tried to warn you from above but you could not understand my words."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday June 24th, 2020 10:44:42 AM

"Why wait for Grindar? Follow the flames!"

Akuno's fire elemental clears another space, I-19. Hopefully this either sags the web, or gives them a clear path through should the group decide to flee.

Akuno herself grabs and picks up her Unseen Servant, then hurries through the gap. The unseen servant continues to hold her items. (To H-18)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=7 ; d20+6=24 ; d8+3=7 ;
Wednesday June 24th, 2020 2:02:39 PM
'Lil's pumped. She's had fights where she ain't landed a single blow. This time she's stabbin' spiders left and right. Still, Thorondir's words cool her heels. Probably best to skedaddle.

If Akuno's fire elemental does burn the webs away (and hopefully stands aside to let'er pass), she takes up position on the other side of the webbing at F17. She holds there, making sure no one gets left behind.

Readied attack if any varmints get near: Hit AC 20 for 10 damage (from previous roll).

AoO: miss (nat 1), and hit AC 24 for 7 damage.

Note: 'Lil has combat reflexes. It's a big part of her toolkit, that's why I'm usually throwing up AoO just in case.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+9=11 ;
Wednesday June 24th, 2020 2:17:41 PM
Bigby takes in Thorodirs warning of more spiders. He looks to Bigby, "we need to learn to speak bird." Wolfgang gives Bigby an inquisitive look. Ready charge if spider comes near the party. 11 charge.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday June 24th, 2020 9:25:05 PM
"Go, go!" Caewlyn urges his companions forward. "I'll watch the rear, we have to get out of here!"

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, morning d4=1 ;
Wednesday June 24th, 2020 10:26:50 PM

While Sol and Caelwyn watch the rear, the rest of the group goes through the hole in the webs created by Akuno's summoned elemental. Sprocket pronounces Llew as free of the poison as he can be without magic. Grindar can tell that Llew is still feeling the effects of the poison, but it isn't exactly obvious to anyone who doesn't know Llew well. Thorondir leads the way between the areas he has entangled; the spells have twisted the grass in the area so that there is very little web left standing, and he feels safe from any spiders for the moment. 'Lil is looking for more, though, ready to attack. Bigby is ready to take the battle to anything they encounter on the other side of the webs. But they encounter no trouble getting everyone through.

The party pauses for a moment while Bigby and Grindar agree on which direction they should be headed. Sprocket packs up his healer's kit.

Perception DC 25: Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a faint, lingering smoke around the areas of web that the elemental cleared.}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=6 ;
Thursday June 25th, 2020 2:33:19 AM
Sol follows through the webbing, keeping his eyes out, but still not seeing anything, perhaps he is distracted by the fact he managed to hit something for once?

"Where to now? Which direction?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=27 ; d20+8=16 ;
Thursday June 25th, 2020 6:50:07 AM
Grindar's perception 27
Llew's perception 16

Grindar nods his understanding to Thorondir's words, and say, "He is a member of the pack, I would gladly do the same, or more, for any of my pack mates!"

Grindar notices the smoke from the web and thinks to himself that could be bad if left unchecked, so he heads to where he sees the smoke, and then being careful to not let any hit the ground, he casts create water to put out the potential fire, multiple times of needed. (The spell description says up to 2 gallons per level, implying less can be created. So Grindar is simply making enough to do the job, without spilling)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=26 ;
Thursday June 25th, 2020 11:01:41 AM
'Lil wonders why Grindar's making water until she sees the smoke starting to rise (perception 26).

"Good thinkin' with the fire, Akuno, but unless your new buddy can fly it might be a good idea to send him home. We already had to outrun one grass fire. Them things move real fast."

She waits for the all clear from Grindar before moving. She stays in the front of the party, ready to stab anything what needs stabbing.

Readied attack if any varmints get near: Hit AC 20 for 10 damage (from previous roll).

AoO: miss (nat 1), and hit AC 24 for 7 damage.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=18 ;
Thursday June 25th, 2020 12:00:39 PM
Glad that the party has made it safely through the spiders web, he turns his attention to Aewen for a moment. Carefully, he picks out any remaining webs from her feathers and soothes her with gentle strokes.
---Speak with Animals---
"Aewen, you need to be careful with those webs. You got out this time, but I was afraid the fire was coming for you. Be safe, fly now and tell me if you see more danger."

He lifts his arm and Aewen takes off quickly gathering speed and elevation.

Watching as Grindar puts out the fire he says:
"We got safely out of the spider web for now, but we must be more careful. It would be helpful if someone could perform speak with animals when I am above and trying to tell you something. I must tell you Akuno, I am thankful for your help in getting the party through the web but I was very afraid that the fire would spread to Aewen who was trapped in the web at the time. I will try and keep her out of the web, but please consider her safety. We are all a bit spent after that close call, but we need to keep going. The spiders could return soon, especially after my entangle spell fades."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday June 25th, 2020 12:21:09 PM

"Oh man, I totally helped!" Akuno thinks. "Maybe I'll get an adventurers nickname like 'Sparky' or 'Haughty Hottie!' I also zapped that spider with acid! Maybe a bard will write about this one day?" Then of course, she's told she put both Aewen and the Sargrass at risk.

With a "hmph" that's pretty par for Akuno's course, she waggles a finger and dismisses her elemental. Red faced, she's embarrassed that she hadn't considered what would have happened if the fire had spread all at once, rather than in a controlled section by section burning. Her tail sags a little, and her ears lose some of their perk. She was pretty sure a small elementals burn ability had to be intentionally used, but arguing it would have been a bitter juice that wasn't worth the squeeze.

She stuffs her Unseen Servant into her backpack, along with her items, and finds a rock to sit on while the others decide what they should be doing next.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday June 25th, 2020 1:11:18 PM
Seeing Akuno’s slump, Grindar comes along side he and says, “You did real good back there, that fire elemental was perfect for the job needed, I was just making sure we didn’t have any issues, you know like a wild fire. You do your job, I’ll do mine, and everyone else will do theirs, and we will perhaps someday be called the Sentinel Dragons!“

“I have speak with animals prepared a couple of times, in case I need or want to talk with Llew, but I was unable to cast it when I heard you calling, due to the spiders”.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=18 ;
Thursday June 25th, 2020 5:01:33 PM
Bigby hopes that the water doesn't cause any other unforseen issues. He remembers what the Manfri had warned about creating water in the Sargrass. Bigby nods to the party on a job well done. Bigby continues along with the party looking out for any issues. perception: 18. Bigby isn't certain on the direction but consults with the other druids for next steps.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early afternoon d20=7 ;
Thursday June 25th, 2020 11:33:42 PM
.
Grindar works slowly and carefully, creating small amounts of water to put out smoldering bits of grass while the rest of the party grows increasingly nervous about the spiders. Fortunately, Thorondir's spells last a few minutes. Still, Grindar does spill a few drops on the ground, where there is a sudden but very short-lived flurry of activity. No one saw just what it was.

Meanwhile, Thorondir and Bigby get their bearings and are confident they'll be back on track. Akuno's elemental disappears. 'Lil and Caelwyn stand guard while Grindar works. And Sprocket asks Sol to help him get his pack adjusted.

Everyone's ready to go before long, and the miserable slog begins again.

A little after midday, Aewen flies down to Thorondir. Before he can find out what's going on, there is a shout from the distance. "Ho!, the druid. What news?", followed by the sound of someone approaching.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday June 26th, 2020 5:15:26 AM
Sol helps Sprocket adjust his pack, and frowns when he hears the voice.

"Who's there?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=30 ;
Friday June 26th, 2020 6:46:36 AM
Grindar tells Llew to stay behind him, as he hold Bwyell at the ready, he scans the area with his eyes, and listens intently, in hopes of seeing or hearing the source of the voice. (perception 30)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=21 ;
Friday June 26th, 2020 10:28:26 AM
'Lil nudges Akuno & gives her a quick nod of her head, the universal sign of "good job." Her and her dudes had been hard on the cat girl. Domi knows she earned some of that, but that weren't no reason to keep puttin' her down when she done good.

She's confused by the voice. Who the heck would be out here? Do they not see the giant ring'a spiders and webs? She keeps her eyes peeled (perception 21) and Maya at the ready. Maybe some'a the critters in the Sargrass could mimic?

Readied attack if any varmints get near: Hit AC 20 for 10 damage (from previous roll).

AoO: miss (nat 1), and hit AC 24 for 7 damage.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=18 ;
Friday June 26th, 2020 12:17:15 PM

Akuno cheers visibly when both Grindar and 'Lil" offer encouragement. The catgirls emotional responses seem to be balanced on a razors edge and easily swung in any given direction. Her tail a bit more lively and her ears restored to their former perk, she eventually absorbs the lesson about making sure her spells don't have accidental casualties.

When a voice calls out, she finds herself near Grindar, helping him scan the grass. She lets her Unseen Servant with her items out of the bag, and tells it to stay close.

Perception 18; Aid Another for Grindar. Success.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=31 ;
Friday June 26th, 2020 1:48:36 PM
perception: 31 Wolfgang attempts to use scent to determine the direction of the voice. "where's it coming from Wolfgang?" Bigby and Wolfgang get into defensive position. It probably is friendly, but you never know in the Sargrass.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=10 ; d20+4=15 ;
Friday June 26th, 2020 4:29:09 PM
--Speak with Animals--
"Aewen, what did you see? Are there many?"

Thorondir steps forward a bit, still staying behind Grindar.
"What druid are you looking for? Hold and declare yourself first, tell us who you are and why you are here."

Perception 10
Sense motive 15

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early afternoon
Friday June 26th, 2020 11:55:08 PM

OOC: It looks like I wasn't clear in my last post. After the spiders, the Sentinels walked the rest of the morning before this new encounter started. The fight, adjusting the pack, thanking Akuno, spiders and webs -- were the same day, but now it's four or five hours later.

-----

"Declare myself? I believe I just did," the voice says. It's soft and distant sounding, but getting louder. "I called out so's you know I'm not sneakin' up on you. If you're lookin' for a name, it's Roddy. That don't make me any more or less friendly."

Grindar, weapon in hand and closest in the party to the voice, has no trouble telling which direction the voice comes from. Nor does Bigby. As Roddy approaches, he keeps talking, although it's a rambling conversation and he doesn't seem to expect any response to it. Maybe he's letting you know where he is, or maybe he just talks to himself. Following Grindar's gaze, everyone else can tell where the voice is. Before long, the group can see a man approaching, but he's still at a distance where the grasses prevent them from making out clear detail.

'Lil also has her weapon ready. Until the man got close enough, she'd thought it might be something else. At her command, Akuno's unseen servant readies her items. Sprocket hovers near Sol, in the center of the group.

Caelwyn looks around to make sure this isn't a distraction for an attack from another direction.

Thorondir -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Aewen says it's just one man who moves fast.}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Saturday June 27th, 2020 8:15:53 AM
Sol steps forward smiling.

"Nice to meet you Roddy, I'm Elijah Solomon. You can call me Sol. What brings you way out here in the Sargrass?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Saturday June 27th, 2020 11:54:25 AM
Seeing Sol get all friendly, with the stranger, sets Grindar into action. He quickly puts himself between Sol and the direction of Roddy. He turns back to Sol and whispers, “He doesn’t sound like a threat, but I’m not taking any chances, the lives of my pack mates are too important to me!”

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Saturday June 27th, 2020 3:08:27 PM
"When I said 'hold and declare yourself' I mean for you to stop moving and tell us your purpose."

Thorondir moves his arm and Aewen launches into the sky.

"I understand that you are traveling alone, but move unnaturally quickly through the Sargrass. Stay still and we can have a conversation. If you keep moving, it seems we will have to assume you mean harm to us."

[To DM: can I have a description of what the man is wearing, in particular does he have any metal items on him?]

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Saturday June 27th, 2020 8:58:15 PM

When Grindar jumps in front of Sol, Akuno is a bit startled. It seemed like a rare occurrence to bump into someone out here. Maybe this group had found trouble on the road in the past?

"Wait, if he knew Thorondir was a druid, doesn't that mean he is one too? Are there bad druids?

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=11 ;
Sunday June 28th, 2020 9:05:04 PM
Caelwyn knows he companions will handle the introductions fine, but he is also wary of strangers in the Sargrass. He keeps his eyes open for threats from any other direction, shield and trident at the ready.

Perception 11

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Sunday June 28th, 2020 10:40:32 PM
Bigby watches the new comer and is cautious. The Sargrass has eaten him up more than once and you just never knew what you would be dealing with. But he's also learned that good people and things come from the Sargrass.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Monday June 29th, 2020 10:45:37 AM
'Lil ain't never met a bad druid...or has she? Some of them druids were really angry about their tree being used as a boat. Would they have gotten violent if their head dude hadn't been there to calm them down?

Either way, she's pretty sure there are evil druids out there. She ain't got much to say that hasn't already been said, so she waits for a response.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early afternoon d20+16=36 ;
Monday June 29th, 2020 8:19:07 PM

Roddy continues moving towards the group, still talking, until Grindar and Bigby can get a reasonably good look at him despite the grass. He stops at that distance, about 25 feet away from them. 'Lil, Sol, Akuno, and Sprocket can also see, and be seen by, him. Thorondir and Caelwyn have a harder time because of the grass.

Roddy is outfitted in a bulky-looking armor made of woven grass and scales cut from the carapaces of large beetles similar to those several of the Sentinels have encountered before. He appears to be about seven and a half or eight feet tall, but human except for the height. At his waist hangs a cruel-looking club, with a row of spikes along its length. You see nothing metal, and several bits of his outfit you just don't recognize. His face is difficult to make out below his broad, woven hat, but his hair is long and white.

"Good afternoon, Sol," Roddy says, catching Sol's eye around Grindar's protective bulk. "I haven't seen outsiders for ages now. I pretty much live out here in the Sargrass." His eyes move to Grindar, "I'm not threatening you. I saw there was a druid in the area, and thought I'd come learn any news he has. I gather that's him with the anti-social attitude. Thorondir, is it? That's a name from the southern side of the mountains." Roddy nods in Thorondir's direction. "Though with the other animals there must be more than one. And yes, young lady, there have been plenty of bad druids. But I think that problem was mostly taken care of in the last age."

"Didn't catch the names of the rest of you. I'm going to assume you've gotten a good enough look that we can all relax a bit? I'd love to hear what news you have."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday June 29th, 2020 10:22:33 PM
Speaking druidic, Thorondir responds:
"Yes, I am Thorondir one of the druids. I don't lead this party though, I have been asked to help keep them safe. So you will excuse my caution I am sure. Tell me what brings you here at this time? What news do you seek, perhaps I can help you if I know more of what you want."

Turning to Akuno, Thorondir adds: "It isn't so easy to judge good and bad. Choices are made that seem good to some and bad to others. Judging is difficult, and frequently wrong."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=21 ;
Monday June 29th, 2020 10:43:03 PM
Caelwyn decides to simply monitor the situation, keeping an eye on the newcomer. He remembered hearing concerning things about the "Tall Men", or something like that, from previous stories, but he isn't sure about the details. One man shouldn't pose a problem...but the Sargrass is a strange place. Best to be on guard. Friendly, but not relaxed.

Perception 21

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday June 30th, 2020 2:43:01 AM
Sol smiles, and puts his hand on Grindar's shoulder.

"It is fine Grindar, I appreciate you attempting to keep me safe. But there is only one of him and several of us, even if he takes a swing at me, you will all be on him in a moment. I doubt he is that foolish."

Sol peeks out from behind Grindar.

"What news are you looking for? There is a lot happening in the Sargrass, and to be honest, if you live out here, it is more likely that you know what is happening better than us, as you will know what is unusual and strange, so, pray tell, have you seen anything odd or out of the ordinary?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday June 30th, 2020 6:55:03 AM
Grindar lefs his defenses down for the moment, as he steps out of Sol's way. "My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, and if you come in peace you are most welcome", the half-orc responds, "As you surmised, their are actuality three druids among our number, though Thorondir is the only one who hasn't branched out into other learning. I myself am more Ranger than Druid. That said, as my friends have said, what news are you looking for?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday June 30th, 2020 11:38:08 AM

Akuno watches all of this with interest. She hadn't realized that Bigby and Grindar both were druids. She assumed Grindar was well, a Grindar. And she figured Bigby had Wolfgang because of dogs and packs and bonding and all that stuff.

When the man asks for news, Akuno smiles smugly. "It's pretty clear what this is about.", she declares. She strides forward proudly, patting off her fancy dress. "Yes, Mr. Roddy, the rumors are true. Akuno Neko, princess and inheritor of her parents vast kingdom, has come to the Sargrass."

Her curtsy would shame a socialite, but for her its par for the course. "I thank you for seeking me out and saving me to trouble of a perilous journey! Tell me wanderer, what news of my family?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday June 30th, 2020 11:56:19 AM
Bigby observes the interaction and wonders how the man knows Thorondirs name already. Must have been something he missed. Bigby simply introduces his name as Bigby and allows the rest to continue the conversation.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday June 30th, 2020 12:45:20 PM
This girl was too much. 'Lil suppresses a chuckle, and introduces herself.

"Good to meet ya, Roddy. I'm 'Lil. This place has tried real hard to kill us, so we've got what I'd call an abundance of caution. I promise we're a friendly bunch when we're not worried you're gonna kill us." She wonders why her dudes are answering his question with more questions, though. Were they expecting Rattledam to be a secret or somethin'? Truth is the place needed bodies to help get it off the ground.

"We're helpin' set up shop in New Rattledam. On our way now to get some'a that help from folks in Stone Temple village." She does leave the part about Virgil and the druidwood out.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early afternoon d20=5 ; d20+16=28 ;
Tuesday June 30th, 2020 7:25:41 PM

Roddy sits and talks at length. Mostly he responds to what the party says, but he sometimes goes off on a tangent that clearly means something to him but doesn't obviously connect to what he had been saying. When he sits, you notice that there are devices attached to his legs, no longer hidden by his attire. They account for his unnatural height.

He considers Sol's question first. "What am I looking for? Well, like I said, news. Can't tell me you don't have any, being Outsiders and all. That's news in itself. And the oddest, most out of the ordinary thing I've seen lately." He rambles on a little bit before remembering his manners. "Well met, Sol, Grindar, Akuno Neko, Bigby, and 'Lil. And Thorondir, too. I should've said that first. Who's your gnome friend? Or the one hanging back?"

When Akuno approaches him and says her piece, his attention settles on her. He removes his hat, revealing a boyish face with piercing blue eyes. "And what's this about a kingdom? I'm sorry, miss, I didn't know I was supposed to come looking for you. So it's a matter of luck that I found you. I don't recognize the name Neko, but the plains are a big place. Where do you think your family might be?" He takes in any details Akuno might tell him.

He also answers when 'Lil speaks. "So you're headed to the Stone Temple? The way you're going, you'll have to cut through the mountains to get there. Not the safest route, unless that's a singing monk you've got keeping guard."

"Of course you've got to be careful. No one's gonna fault you for that. But you've also got to take the opportunities you find." Roddy talks to fill space any time the party lets a silence form. He also asks the group questions, seemingly as they occur to him. Mostly they're questions about where you come from and what that was like. Of course, why you came here crops up, and did you really see clouds almost every day. When he asks what's the weirdest food you've ever eaten, it seems he's looking for an answer from back home.

Sense motive DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: {You get the impression Roddy doesn't get much company, and tries to make up for that when he meets people. The only pause -- a very brief one -- in the words that tumble out of Roddy comes when 'Lil mentions Rattledam.}

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+4=7 ;
Tuesday June 30th, 2020 10:49:56 PM
Unsure if the stranger understood the druidic language, Thorondir decides to watch and listen as others tell their story. Aewen circles slowly above.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday June 30th, 2020 11:03:47 PM
Caelwyn introduces himself as a servant of Domi and protector of the innocent and helpless. He is respectful, but guarded - free with information about himself, but not keen to talk much about Rattledam.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=12 ;
Wednesday July 1st, 2020 5:38:22 AM
Sol politely answers any of Roddy's questions, without prejudice and with utmost honesty, unless it's something that should be kept secret (for example, what Druid Wood actually is, how they came by it as those are not his secrets to tell, but anything about him personally, he answers happily.)

"Where are you headed then Roddy?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday July 1st, 2020 6:27:37 AM
Grindar put Bwyell away, and has a seat with his friends sharing his story. He talks about the day the hill giants attacked his village, and how the then Paladin, Succotash Slenderstick and his wild pig mount came to their aid just in time. He shares how Succotash and his father, Grindor the Ranger, lead the village to victory, and how Succotash healed Grindor when he was mortally wounded. He tells Roddy how that inspired him to become an adventurer, and talked about the Ranger training his father gave him. He talks about how his father asked a wizard friend and former adventuring team mate to teleport Grindar to the southern continent, as that is where he wished to make a name for himself. He shared how he was captured by savage halflings upon arrival, and how he helped the Sentinels defeat the halflings, after they helped him escape. He shares the adventures they have had thus far, though he is careful to omit anything that may indicate the help from the druids, druid wood and the like, as he, like his friends, considers that to be a secret to be taken to the grave.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday July 1st, 2020 10:28:11 AM

Akuno smiles nervously at Roddy. "Well, they're somewhere. Hopefully here, if not, elsewhere! I couldn't tell you much about them, since I've never met them. Just kinda going on blind faith."

When Roddy asks about the weirdest food she's eaten, she looks pale. "Eh.. heh. Well, I ate a mouse once. I didn't want too, but children can be mean and because of this.. and this.. and these, they though it would be funny to make me eat one." Akuno points to her ears, tail and fangs. "He was my pet for awhile, and when I brought it to school to show him off, some boys made a ruckus about it. Cats can't be friends with mice. So they held me down and forced Pinky in my mouth and wrapped it closed with my scarf. Pinky got scared and started biting me.. and so .. I had to chew."

She smiles weakly and bonks herself on the side of her head. "I shouldn't have brought him with me, but they weren't mean to other kids with pets. Never trust the rabble, they say."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=12 ;
Wednesday July 1st, 2020 1:19:40 PM
'Lil lets Grindar and the rest talk. She smiles a bit when he mentions seeing clouds every day.

"Nah, I'm a city girl. Grew up in Hook City where they have a weather machine what keeps things nice. Nice for us, anyway. All the rain we're supposed to get falls on the outskirts where the poorer folk live." She tries to remember if what he's saying about having to go through the mountains was right. Wasn't the place at the foot of the mountain?

(OOC: Carl's genuinely forgotten)

Her smile vanishes at Akuno's story. Yea, kids can be cruel, but she's pretty sure that's sociopathic behavior. She ain't got kids, but she tries to imagine what she'd do if someone did that to her kid. More to the point, she's confused about her admitting some part in it.

"That ain't a rabble thing, Akuno. I ain't one to give advice to royalty, but if I was in your shoes I'd make it a point to stop assigning myself part of the blame for that."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday July 1st, 2020 2:56:11 PM
"I don't remember much about my upbringing. Most of its kind of a blur to be honest. I remember Wolfgang and it seems he's always been by my side. we're connected in a way. Am I connected to him, or he connected to me. I don't know, but I just accept it. Well, I guess I somehow got to Hook City and saw that someone was putting a party together to head to the Sargrass. It sounded interesting to us and we went for it. We thought maybe we could learn more about how beastfolk came about."

Bigby shifts a bit and you can tell he's thinking. "as for food, well...eggs and eels has to be the most unique thing I've tried, but let me tell you it was pretty good. That's all I got to say about that."

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early evening
Wednesday July 1st, 2020 8:43:48 PM

Roddy is genuinely delighted to hear about everyone's history, and shares plenty of his own in return.

In response to Sol's question, he talks about wanderlust. "Where am I headed? Pretty much just walking. It's what I do. I know some people like to live i one place, but I haven't for a long time. Mostly wander between Harvester villages." He does not notice, or does not remark on, Thorondir's silence. "So you're one of Domi's Bravest?" he asks Caelwyn, before talking about a man he met once -- a cleric, it seems. He seems to connect Grindar's story about the halflings to events he has heard of before. 'Lil's story of city life is fascinating for the number of people she says could be in one place and the notion of pushing the rain away. "Hah, it must be interesting seeing rain make it all the way to the ground."

As for 'Lil's pondering about going through the mountains, the rest of the group agrees that when Thich led them to the Stone Temple, they had to cross the mountains. "Thich would be a monk then. No one else prefers crossing the mountains to taking the crater. Mind you, neither is easy, but at least the crater don't explode anymore." Akuno's story gather her some sympathy, although Roddy didn't take it as poorly as 'Lil. "Blind faith, eh? Gets me more places than most things else." But the longest story easily had to be about where beastfolk come from. "Everyone's pretty much agreed that the Warper-Sar created the beastfolk -- though many think it might've been by accident..." the story goes. The exact method isn't mentioned, just that the Warper-Sar can create change. "... But what I find most interesting is that he probably hasn't made then yet..." Roddy talks a bit about the Wold's Cradle, and what happens to folks who get lost in it. Sometimes good things, more often bad. Sprocket chimes in on this tale to explain that is how he's heard things, too. People get lost in Maab's realm and sometimes come out again before they went in. "... Then there's beastfolk who were ordinary folk before they met the Warper-Sar, but from what I hear they remember the time when they weren't... And if you don't remember your childhood, you just might be one of the original beastfolk," he says to Bigby.

The conversations take the remainder of the day. Druid wood is not one of the subject Roddy brings up. (Although he'd surely have a story about it if someone else did.)

When the group notices the time, Roddy asks if you want him to move on before nightfall. Being that you just met him.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday July 2nd, 2020 2:41:26 AM
Sol thinks for a moment.

"I have no issue with you joining us, if you want, but I think we should discuss it. I am certain you understand if my colleagues may be a bit apprehensive."

He turns to the other Sentinals and speaks in a lower whisper.

"As I said, I have no issue with him staying here, however I appreciate I can be somewhat naive in these sorts of things, I suggest if any one of us have a strong objection to him remaining, we ask him to move on. I do not wish to offend him, but I would prefer you could all sleep comfortably."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday July 2nd, 2020 6:48:24 AM
"I have no issue with Roddy staying the night, I would like to ask him more of the crater route. I've been concerned about entering the Crystal Mountains without a singing monk to guide us, and the chance of a less explosive route would be nice" Grindar says to his friends, then turning to Roddy he says, "Would you be able to guide us to this crater route, or at the least give us decent directions, without a monk in our party, I've been concerned as to how we are going to safely get to Stone Temple, and this crater path that you mention seems like the most logical approach".

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday July 2nd, 2020 11:24:05 AM
"Yea, he seems friendly enough. May be useful too, ya know? Cae here could tell if he had evil in his heart. Ya did look, right dude?" She looks for a response. She thinks he once said he don't like using that ability willy nilly.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday July 2nd, 2020 1:53:40 PM
Bigby considers what Roddy says. "Original beastfolk?" He'd never considered that or what that even means. He would have to think on this. He would have to think on what this means for him. As for Roddy staying, Bigby nods his head and agrees with him staying the night. Bigby trusts the pack and always knows that Sols heart was in the right place.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday July 2nd, 2020 5:31:10 PM
Thorondir quietly walks over and listens as the group welcomes the stranger into their midst. He looks Roddy over carefully, then asks; "Could you tell me a bit about what you are wearing and what it is you have strapped to your feet? I spoke to you in druidic, thinking you were a druid. Perhaps I was mistaken. Who besides Roddy are you, and what skills do you possess to wander the Sargrass alone?"

He then adds: "Oh, I have eaten the entrails of a freshly killed Blind Swallow, but that is where the nutrients are."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday July 2nd, 2020 10:47:02 PM

Akuno is happy to move on from an unhappy subject. "I don't have a problem with Roddy. He seems like someone we could learn from." Maybe she didn't feel it as strongly as Bigby, but she WAS curious about why she was the way she way, instead of being born as something normal, like 'Lil.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 12, early morning
Friday July 3rd, 2020 12:46:46 AM
Roddy accepts the group's welcome, and will even show you the crater if that's what you want, although it's a couple of days away. He can also explain the route well enough for Grindar, Bigby, or Thorondir to find it. He is not a druid, and says he doesn't spend much time south of the mountains.

The night is uneventful. In the morning, Llew has recovered his strength from the spider bites.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday July 3rd, 2020 2:43:58 AM
Sol awakens early, which is unusual for him, but he is up as the sun rises. He gets himself dressed and finds a nice spot where the sun will rise over him, and perches there, writing in his diary/records of what has happened recently. He is as quiet as he can be so as not to disturb the others, but patiently waits for them to awaken.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday July 3rd, 2020 11:46:32 AM
Grindar is ecstatic that Llew is better, as he preps for the day. He asks his friends, "It's up to you guys, do we want to take on Roddy as a guide, or simply except his directions. I have no opinion other then to say the guy kinda grows on ya, and I wouldn't mind his company a bit longer".

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday July 3rd, 2020 12:35:25 PM
"Seems Llew is in better spirit Grindar. Im glad to see that." Bigby pats Wolfgang and Wolfgang goes over to Llew to see if he wants to play. Wolfgang bends down looking at Llew and jumps up encouraging him to run about. "As for Roddy, he's actually pretty good company and I don't like to say that about people." Bigby is unaware of his social cues at that moment in his comments.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday July 3rd, 2020 3:24:45 PM
"Sure, keeping Roddy around is a good idea. Perhaps I can get answers to a few questions, and it is better to keep an eye on someone if you are unsure of their intentions."

Thorondir calls Aewen down and the two spend some time preening each other.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday July 3rd, 2020 5:59:03 PM
Upon Wolfgang’s invitation to play, Llew look up to Grindar, as if to ask permission. Grindar smiles at his feline friend and says, “Go on”. Immediately Llew takes off chasing after her canine buddy.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 14, evening d4=1 ;
Saturday July 4th, 2020 12:38:42 PM

Before setting out, Roddy explains to Grindar, Bigby, and Thorondir the route he is planning to take. The group set off, following Roddy's lead (slightly westward of their previous path). Roddy makes sure there's a constant conversation. The conversation includes advice on uses for the various plants the group encounters. They also hear about glassgrass and thrashgrass, but fortunately encounter neither. When the spiders of the previous day come up in conversation, there is advice on what they are useful for, too, which includes a good bit more than the party would have thought. The day passes quickly. However, Roddy leaves no time for hunting.

As evening comes, the party finds another cluster of bulbgrass.

Survival DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Roddy seems to have a knack for getting people to move through the grass. The group came twice as far as the non-druids would normally have managed in a day.}

The next few days pass in the same manner, and Roddy brings the group to the edge of the crater around evening. There, he tells everyone that he is not inclined to visit the Stone Temple himself. From here, it's a simple matter of following the rim of the crater to the other side of the mountains, and turning east for a bit.

Here is a map.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Saturday July 4th, 2020 12:45:01 PM
'Lil's glad Roddy's come with'em. She wonders why his constant talking don't draw more hungry critters to them, though. When it doesn't happen, she stops worrying about it.

When it's time to part ways, 'Lil speaks up. "Roddy, you've been a life saver...maybe literally. This place sure wants us dead sometimes. Will ya spend the rest of the night here with us an move on in the morning?" She tries to tell'im how to get to New Rattledam so he can come visit, but she's so turned around at this point that she ain't much help. Hopefully some'a her dudes help out.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=30 ;
Monday July 6th, 2020 6:28:21 AM
Survival 30

"How do you do it Roddy? we are making way better time and burning up way more miles then we were before we met you. Is there a trick to it, and is it something you could teach me?" Grindar is truly amazed. "As the one who usually takes point while traveling, often accompanied by my friend Bigby here, having such a skill would really help us out a lot!"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday July 6th, 2020 1:35:09 PM
"Perhaps if we had stilts to walk on as well we could all move easily through the grass." Bigby looks at Wolfgang and imagines him with four stilts on his legs and laughs. Wolgang looks back in knowing weary look and looks as if he were to shake his head at the idea.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=10 ;
Monday July 6th, 2020 4:01:46 PM
"It looks like my initial caution was unwarranted, I appreciate your help moving this group through the grass and keeping us on track." Thorondir sincerely says to Roddy. "Thanks also for directions to Stone Temple, it looks like we should be able to follow them easily enough."

As evening comes, he calls down Aewen and checks on her. Hopefully, she was able to catch some prey for a meal. Otherwise, Thorondir will hunt with her in the morning to make sure she gets a good meal.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday July 6th, 2020 10:14:57 PM

Akuno also offers him a spot. "You can stay up with me and the servants, and help on watch. Or you can just sleep!"

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 17, early afternoon
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 12:26:30 AM
Roddy accepts the party's hospitality for one more night, but goes his own direction in the morning.

That day, as the party travels through the grass with the mountains towering over them in the east, they begin to come upon rubble, then boulders, which grow increasingly large for several hours. In the early afternoon for a time the boulders are the size of houses. For the rest of the day, the rocks they encounter gradually shrink in size. For the evening's camp, they find a spot where the boulders are large enough to offer some defense from one side.

The next day the group leaves the rubble behind and turns east, having come through the mountains without clearly seeing a crater. In the early afternoon of the following day, they push through the grasses to see the village at the Stone Temple ahead, with fields to cross to get there.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 2:34:32 AM
Sol breathes a sigh of relief, he's glad to see the Stone Temple again, some safe refuge for the Sentinels rather than sleeping outside, which doesn't usually worry him, but the Sargrass is an odd and dangerous place.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 6:05:40 AM
Grindar isn't completely sure what to think upon arriving at Stone Temple. One the one hand, he is looking forward to seeing Virgil again, and some of the Monk's have shown themselves to be friendly indeed, not to mention, seeing any progress on the ship, but he wonders what fool's errand the Sentinels will be sent on next, as that seems to the trend.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 2:13:29 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang say their goodbyes to Roddy. They wish him well and hope to see him again. The Stone Temple. They kind of forgot what it was like being here so somehow it all still feels new to them. They wonder if they are going to end up on a quest from the monks.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 4:17:37 PM
'Lil's real glad to see civilization again. She hopes nothin' bad's in this plain they have to cross to get there.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 5:52:00 PM
Having said his thanks to Roddy, Thorondir again takes personal responsibility for the safety of the group.

Calling Aewen down to him [Speak with Animals]: "Watch carefully for danger, tell me if you see anything moving in the fields. Call to me from on high, I will understand."

Thorondir will again cast Speak with Animals if Aewen calls to him.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 17, early afternoon d4=4 ;
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 11:50:05 PM
It occurs to me that we may not always picture anywhere near the same thing when I try to describe an area. When the party travels through the Sargrass, I imagine them surrounded by grasses anywhere from 4 feet to 30 feet tall, but typically in the 10 to 15 foot range. As much like stands of bamboo as anything else, with visibility varying depending on the direction you look from about 5 to 30 feet. So encountering the boulders was not like finding a field of rubble, but like finding the rubble a piece at a time as you push through the growth. And finding cultivated fields outside of town means you can see for some distance again.

=====

The Sentinels begin their trek towards the village through the fields. After a few minutes, they realize they have been seen, as there is a bit of a stir at the edge of town. A bird leaves the town and heads their direction, attracting Aewen's attention. When the new bird arrives, it alights and turns into Biel.

Good day! he says to all. "Virgil has been worried. When the fairy diddles came back without you, he was almost beside himself. But they said you had been happy to visit with old friends, and stayed in town rather than joining them for the return trip."

As he walks into town with the group, Biel informs everyone that negotiations on the new boat have started, and -- "Who's this?" he asks, noticing Sprocket. Sprocket says that he has come from Rattledam to see about the boat, as they are greatly concerned about what might happen with it. "Of course," Biel answers, "Just like everyone else. Let me give you all the run-down... In the weeks that you have been gone, the sailors and craftsmen that the merchants had sent for have arrived. Shortly thereafter, I and a handful of other druids came. The druids are here to make demands about the boat. I'm here to urge you to follow your own counsel and not theirs..." In fact, Biel explains, he needs to return to his grove tomorrow. The merchants are not happy that the druids are making demands. The monks are concerned that the merchants would monopolize the boat to make money, when they need it for colonists. Virgil has retreated into a little thicket he grew around Genyielt's remains, and has rebuffed every attempt anyone has made to talk to him for the past few days.

"For my own part, what I have to say is that we must learn to live with the Sargrass as it is, not be coerced into a futile attempt to return it to what it once was. Or what it once may have been, seeing how many generations ago that was."

The party reaches the village without incident, and learn that they are welcome again -- Akuno, Thorondir, and Sprocket included -- to the quarters the group had been using.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 4:32:57 AM
Sol spends some time relaxing in his quarters, but then looks to meet up with the rest of the Sentinels to see what their next step should be.

"I feel we should talk to the druids first, and find out what it is they are expecting, so that way we can then debate as to whether we feel that is the most appropriate course of action."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 6:10:06 AM
"That's probably a good idea Sol, however, I think we may need to talk to Virgil too, it sounds like he isn't doing so well with all the arguing going on, they are arguing as to what to do with the remains of his closest friend after all", Grindar shares. "Why don't you and mayhaps some others of us Sentinels go talk to the Druids to learn their demands, while I, and whom ever wishes to join me goes talk to Virgil?", the half-orc suggests.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 9:47:39 AM
"I agree with Grindar." Thorondir says. "Perhaps it would be best if Bigby, Grindar and I go talk with him. That way we can converse in our druidic language. There are thoughts and ideas that don't translate well into the common tongue."

Thinking a bit, he adds "You know, if they are fighting among themselves over how to use this one ship, there will be others who will try and secure wood for more ships. This is something we must prevent."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 11:10:50 AM
'Lil sighs. This was all super important, no doubt, but her diplomacy muscles were just finally startin' to let up after days of heavy use.

No matter, one's gotta do what one's gotta do.

Her dudes all make good points, but she's got a request. "Thorondir, you mind coming to talk to the druids with us? If what you say about ya'lls language is true, might help to have a speaker with both groups."

What she keeps to herself is that Thorondir seems more likely not to brook any nonsense from folks, including his own kind. She's got a hunch these druids is waist deep in nonsense.

For her part, she's more than happy to make protecting druid trees part'a the Sentinel's duties.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 12:12:51 PM
"humans and their money making scheme." Bigby was willing to hear out each side but already felt that the boat should be for the people not for making money. Bigby agrees with a nod to 'Lils request for Thorondir to join and makes sure that he sees his approval.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 12:44:40 PM
Wishing more to go to the small grove that Virgil started, he nods in agreement to Lil.
"If you think it will help I will go talk to the druids. My concern is really more with the merchants, they will be the ones demanding more druid wood for more ships."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 1:23:54 PM
Caelwyn thinks for a moment, then states, "We must talk to all of them, and we can certainly split up to do it. But I will speak with Virgil first - he is the most important person for us to listen and speak to, as the ship means so much to him. Let us be diplomatic with everyone involved and try to listen first, then we can discuss what we find among ourselves."

If no one objects, Caelwyn wants to be among those who speak with Virgil first.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+7=26 ; d20+1=21 ;
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 5:07:00 PM

Akuno isn't quite sure where she should be going. There's names of people and stuff about a druid boat, but she's not really clued in on any of it.

"Boooring.", she says, before tucking her favorite servant under her arm and walking off towards the township itself. She doesn't make an explicit request for his company, but Akuno does turn around and glance back at Bigby for more than a few moments, and doesn't complain if he tags along.

She pokes around with the people here, sniffing the air for anything curious, and trying to learn about them as best she can. What are the problems they are facing? How could she help?

And maybe, just maybe, she can find someone with dried or canned fish out here in this wasteland.

Know History: 26 (Asking about local establishment and its history)
Know Local: 21 (seeking people with problems or need help, looking for someone who has a fish.) (nat 20)

DM Steve -- Stone Temple Village -- Module 4, day 18, morning d12=8 ; d20=17 ; d20=2 ; d20=7 ; d20=3 ;
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 10:50:27 PM

The Sentinels are not exactly enthusiastic to be back to baby-sitting grownups, but they set a strategy the rest of the day and plan to get to work the next morning. Before night falls, Akuno learns that her best chance of finding fish will be to talk to the recently arrived sailors.

In the morning:
* Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn will go to talk to Virgil.
* Sol, 'Lil, and Thorondir will go to talk to the visiting druids.
* Akuno goes to look for fish and non-boring ways to help people.
* Llew, Wolfgang, and Aewen go hunting.
* Based on inquiries he made last evening, Sprocket heads off to talk to the monks.

=====

Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn

Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn arrive at Virgil's thicket in the morning. Aware that folks are arguing as to what to do with the remains of his closest friend, and disapproving of human money making schemes, they approach Virgil carefully so as not to risk causing offense.

They find Virgil in a pretty good mood. He greets them and asks how their travels were. He talks about the town. Turns out that most of the townsfolk have been very good to him. Although he's not planning on staying here once there is a boat, he believes he will visit. Although he must have some idea what the three Sentinels are here to talk about, though, he does not broach the subject.

=====

Sol, 'Lil, and Thorondir

Having learned from Biel the previous evening where the druids are staying, Sol, 'Lil, and Thorondir head there in the morning, already skeptical about what they expect to hear. One thing they expect to agree with the druids on is the need to protect the remaining druid trees.

Biel has already departed by the time they get there. At least the remaining druids are known to Thorondir by reputation. The druids are, however, not interested in talking with the Sentinels. In fact, they go so far as to speak no Common.

"Le tuiscint a fháil ar an draíocht, foghlaimíonn Thorondir gur dheonaigh na draoithe adhmad cheana féin chun an long a thógáil, agus cé go bhfuil amhras fós ag cuid acu ar eagna an méid seo ghlac siad leis. Ach is iadsan an t-aon fhoinse le haghaidh tuilleadh adhmaid sa todhchaí."

"Ní dócha mar a shíleann siad go ndéanfaidís amhlaidh."

"Agus braitheann siad gurb iad an foinse is fearr le comhairle a fháil ar conas an úsáid is mó a bhaint as an adhmad."

"Tá sé beartaithe acu a seasamh a úsáid chun a chur ina luí ar na grúpaí eile beartais athchóirithe a ghlacadh. Dúnadh iad, áfach, as gach plé go dtí seo."

Thorondir Highlight to display spoiler: {Understanding druidic, Thorondir learns that the druids have already granted wood for the ship to be built, and although some still doubt the wisdom of this they have accepted it. But they are also the only source for any more wood in the future (unlikely as they think it is that they would grant it) and feel they are the best source for advise on how to get the most use from the wood. They plan to use their position to try to convince the other groups to adopt restorationist policies. They have, however, been shut out of all discussions so far.}

=====

Akuno

Sailors have a reputation. Akuno is careful as she pokes about, until she realizes that there really aren't a lot of them here, and the ones that are here are also craftsmen. As she asks about fish -- they do have some salted fish still, which she might be able to barter for -- Akuno learns that they are also annoyed. Not everyone survived the journey, for one thing. No one knows anything about building a flying ship, for another. They can build ships, of course, but after this hideous journey they learn they only have one tree to work with and no one even knows whether it is buoyant or how buoyant it is.

The only historic local establishment is the Stone Temple, which isn't really a temple anymore -- just a museum.

=====

The animals find the hunting near town disappointing.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday July 9th, 2020 2:43:05 AM
Sol simply raises an eyebrow, as if to express his dislike of the inconsiderate nature of these druids, but he says nothing, simply waiting for Thorondir to (hopefully) translate.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday July 9th, 2020 6:55:30 AM
"Virgil, it is truly shady to see you, my moonshade friend!", Grindar says as he see's the druid. "I hear that some whitehands are arguing over what to do with our friends remains, that saddens me, and I can only imagine how it makes you feel. I would love to hear your take on the whole thing, because to be honest, your view is the only one that matters to me!"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday July 9th, 2020 11:49:40 AM
Bigby wonders about the family on the caravan that they had saved. Were the two kids still playing that game with the wizard and fighter. Something like Barratore and the other name escaped him. He would have to look for them later and buy some eggs and eels as well. Perhaps that could be close enough to the fish that Akuno had mentioned before. ok Bigby, remember all of these things. Bigby greets Virgil, "how are you holding up? And hows the boat coming along?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday July 9th, 2020 9:10:04 PM
Caelwyn greets Virgil with genuine respect and pleasure. "Glad to hear all has been well with you here. We've tried to iron out some difficulties back in Rattledam, but now we hope to help here however we can. It looks like some folks are a bit on edge already...what needs to be done?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday July 9th, 2020 10:51:30 PM
Thorondir speaks to the druids in their language (he will translate later to Sol and Lil: "I agree, the wood must be honored and not taken for granted. I am afraid if the merchants have their way they will demand more wood for more ships. The grove will be in danger if greed has its way."

He thanks the druids and asks their leave. When they depart, Thorondir will explain to Lil and Sol that the druids have been shut out of conversations. He agrees that they must be part of it, and explains his concerns: "Merchants provide a valuable service to the town, but most eventually fall into greed. If they have full control of the wood and ship, soon they will request more wood for more ships. The druids must be part of the council to make decisions."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday July 9th, 2020 11:20:55 PM

Akuno drools over the mention of salted fish. It takes a moment to get her focus where it needs to be. "I'm sorry that the plans of the tree-boat aren't anchored down yet. Losing the wind in your sails is frustrating, but being dead in the water with no idea on how to get moving again is worse." She smiles a little. "But, I DO think that there's some really capable people out here in these poxed grasses. The Sentinels are doing everything they can to make everyone happy, and I think that sooner or later we will have you all on the right course. Just believe in heroes, and in yourselves. You'll endure."

She casts sad eyes towards the men.

"Unlike me, meow. I haven't eaten a single decent fish in weeks. I haven't even had a single indecent fish. If you could trade yours for gold or service, it might keep me from starving. I wasn't made of tough enough stuff to subsist on trail rations, raisins, and boiled grass." She puts a hand on her forehead, as if feeling faint. "It may be too late anyways...", she cries. "Would you be willing to make a trade?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday July 10th, 2020 12:27:44 AM
'Lil feels like everyone's bein' way too accepting of "the way things are gonna be."

"Look, I'm fully ready to smash heads of anyone what wants to kill more druid trees to make a boat. We're all on the same page with that, yea?"

OOC: Migraine. Short post. Sorry.

DM Steve -- Stone Temple Village -- Module 4, day 18, morning
Friday July 10th, 2020 12:43:07 AM

Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn

After Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn express their sympathies to Virgil and assure him that his opinion carries the most weight with them, he gives a small chuckle. "I forget. Did we ever tell you about the Baron?"

"Anyway, what needs to be done is we need to set some rules and get everyone here to agree to them. About how the boat is going to be used, and by whom. I've been sneaking into town and talking with Attius. Based on what he's told me, I have some ideas how to handle things. But first, tell me what you've learned about your feline friend, Miss Neko. Is she reliable?"

After Virgil hears the trio's answers, he asks them to come back with the entire group in the morning. Anything they manage to learn about what other people expect of the boat could also be useful.

=====

Sol, 'Lil, and Thorondir

The druids are highly irritated, and all Sol and 'Lil have to go on is Thorondir's assurance that this is with reason when the threesome heads back into the village. The three have most of the day ahead of them still, and are not sure that the Sentinels will be back together before evening. While they debate what to do, they bump into Sprocket.

"How has your day been?" he asks. He, himself, needs to find Attius or Flitch, but hasn't been having much luck.

=====

Akuno

"Would we be willing to make a trade? For salted fish? I suppose. What trade are you proposing?" The men debate among themselves, not sure how much of the stuff they might have left. The come to the conclusion that they must still have a barrel of the stuff, because they haven't been able to prepare it for several weeks now.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday July 10th, 2020 2:50:24 AM
Sol smiles at Sprocket.

"Ah Sprocket, good to see you. Well speaking with the druids was... interesting. They say they've been forced out of the negotiations about the druid wood? Do you know if that is true?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday July 10th, 2020 6:59:27 AM
"Akuno is a bit of a whitehand, though she is trust worthy, and she is trying, two important qualities. If she keeps going as she is, someday she may be as shady as the rest of the pack. Oh we decided to name our pack, well really the peeps at Rattledam requested it, I guess it makes it easier to identify us or something. We decided that the Sargrass Sentinels, or Sentinels for short, had some nice shade to it. We will gather the rest of the Sentinels for sure, if for no other reason than the fact that they would like to see you too, and we'll get this sorted out together!". Grindar makes sure to relay Virgil's message to the rest of the pack

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday July 10th, 2020 10:36:42 AM
Bigby listens to Grindars and Caelwyns response and then chimes in with, "Shes different but one of us. And she means well. What was it you wanted to tell us about the Baron," Bigby asks. When the time is right Bigby heads with the group in the morning with the entire group.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday July 10th, 2020 12:00:31 PM
'Lil starts feelin' pangs of something in her gut. She'd made some wrong assumptions about the druids, maybe. There was more to discover here, maybe. She wonders if Sprocket's heard anything about the druids being locked out, seein' as he's only been here as long as the rest of'em.

"The druids ain't wrong. It's only a matter'a time before someone gets the bright idea to go kill themselves a druid tree to get the wood. It's all good and well for us to say we'll punish any who do, but it took us days to get here and we still ain't near their grove, ya know? Until Sol here or Akuno can start teleportin' folks, we can just shake our fists, and them fists will look pretty small from so far away." It's a problem she don't have an answer to. Still, coming to the agreement that tryin'a raid the druids grove was a capital offense was a good start. She wasn't in the mood to get any push back from merchants on that matter, but would they show their hand like that?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday July 10th, 2020 5:28:31 PM
Thorondir talking to Lil, Sol and Sprocket:
"So how does is the ownership of the boat supposed to work? Does the town own it? Seems like if nobody rightfully owns it there might be some sort of squabble about who gets to use it and for what. Maybe you Sentinels should own it? Then you could loan it out as you see fit, and use it to move around the Sargrass. Like I say, I was sent to protect the tree and look after you folks, so I don't have a concern myself on it. Just want to make sure there isn't a bunch of folks looking to make a fleet of them."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday July 10th, 2020 8:25:10 PM

Akuno hazards a smile. "I have gold? I can perform service? I can offer unseen servants for labor? Lets make a deal!"

Negotiations

DM Steve -- Stone Temple Village -- Module 4, day 18, evening
Saturday July 11th, 2020 10:05:25 AM

Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn

Virgil say's he'll talk about the Baron when everyone is there, the next morning. Before the adventurers leave, he adds, "But you three should understand. I would not have agreed to the building of this boat if Maab had not told me that in the long run it would help protect the grove. Maab also put a great deal of trust in your party, so I will be trusting you too."

=====

Sol, 'Lil, and Thorondir

Sprocket is quick to reply to Sol, "From what I heard, negotiations haven't started. Virgil saw what was gathering and holed up." With a bit more discussion, Sprocket lays out why he's here and looking for Attius or Flitch. Rattledam is interested in growing the community and making sure it will survive. They see the boat as a way to bring in settlers and materials needed to build. This is something they should have in common with the monks of this village. Sprocket wants routine trips to cities where settlers can be recruited and the ability to send the boat on diplomatic missions it the need arises -- and maybe some cargo capacity. He's here to see what of that Rattledam can actually secure.

"I don't know for sure about any other folks, but Rattledam's in no shape to go after the druids -- and I doubt anyone else just moving in would be either. And yes, we could and would agree that it's a capital offsense to kill the trees for their wood. We would even agree to punish anyone who came to us in an unsanctioned boat -- if we can tell that it's unsanctioned and can muster the force to punish them. If someone's harvesting trees with a druid community trying to stop them, though, they'll be formidable."

"Ownership of the boat... Well, when our friends went out to look for druid wood, we in Rattledam kind of thought they'd bring the wood back and we'd build a boat and it would be ours. Smithira's a right good carpenter you know. When you came back, however, 'Lil said a druid named Virgil would be in charge. We'd never heard of him. I'm here to see what he's like, too."

=====

Akuno

The sailors and craftsmen talk among themselves, They confirm that they do still have an unopened barrel and decide that 60 gold pieces is a reasonable price for a barrel of salted cod.

Perception DC 16 Highlight to display spoiler: {From overhearing the conversation, Akuno knows they paid 50 gp for the barrel back in Hook City. And that the barrel itself is worth 2 gp, as one guy keeps pointing out.}
Sense Motive DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {The men aren't being up front about everything. For some reason they stopped eating the stuff after they made it through Dre Moria.}

Meanwhile, Akuno hears them complaining more about the trip and the lack of ready work when they got here. However, there is a rumor that the adventuring party that located the wood and disappeared has returned. Perhaps they will manage to make folks see reason. "Have you heard of them, miss? Some folks think they're going to be angry that the work hasn't started, after braving the plains to find the wood, but it's not our fault it hasn't." They seem really concerned that they're going to be blamed, and even punished, for not knowing how to make a ship out of a single tree. "I heard one of those guys is a wolf-riding warrior from savage lands. And everyone knows one is an orc." No one's even seen a floating ship since what they call the long wait. "Can you imagine the size that wolf must be?" Really, they were brought here to figure out how to make a new kind of boat, but have been given nothing to work with.

=====

The rest of the day passes uneventfully. After their various conversations, the group reconvenes in the evening.

Thorondir -- Highlight to display spoiler: {While Thorondir preens Aewen that evening, he finds a piece of grass wrapped around Aewen's body and tied. It is positioned and slack enough not to cause Aewen any discomfort.}

Akuno -- Only if she buys the fish: Highlight to display spoiler: {One of the men is concerned that Akuno knows how to prepare the fish for cooking, although he doesn't say anything until after the sale. The fish has been dried and salted, and needs to be soaked in water for a day before using it, to get rid of the excess salt. He says one fish will need about a gallon of water, and it will be less salty if she changes the water a couple of times throughout the day."That much water is hard to come by here."}

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=19 ; d20=12 ;
Saturday July 11th, 2020 1:43:08 PM

Perception -1: Pass 18
Sense Motive -1: Fail 17

Akuno pats the concerned sailor on the arm. Her voice sounds...motherly. Perhaps she's imitating her own mother, or at least, the human who raised her? "There there, daijobu dayo. You'll be okay! She looks off towards where she thinks the others might be. "The sentinels are mostly nice. Some might be more stern than others, but they won't hurt you for something you can't do. I'm with them actually!"

She plonks down 60 gold. She's so happy to have some fish back in her life that the small profit the sailors are making isn't a problem at all. And she can beg either Lil' or Thorondir to make the water she needs.

"Maybe with this, you can buy some tools or trade for what you need?"

-------------------------

When the groups meet back up, she comes into the room perched precariously atop a barrel of salted fish, which is awkwardly balanced atop a floating sphere, which is being pulled by her Unseen Servant.

"Mission accomplished! Fish has been found!" She smiles with gusto, nuzzling a salted cod whose expression is somehow horrified. "Also, I found the sailors who are supposed to be working on the boat. They don't have tools I guess, and have no idea what they are doing. They haven't started because its completely different from normal shipbuilding."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Saturday July 11th, 2020 6:18:23 PM
"We will talk to Virgil in the morning and settle how the boat will be built and who will be in charge of it."
Thorondir says to Sprocket and anyone else who may listen.
"You are correct about the defense that druids will mount. It is highly unlikely that any will survive trying to harvest more druid wood. I myself will gladly fight to defend the trees."

When Aewen returns and Thorondir starts to preen her, a look of concern comes over him. He unties a bit of grass that is wrapped around Aewen. "Someone tied this to Aewen, or perhaps she was caught in a snare. That is unlikely though, as it wasn't tightened as a snare would. If they wish to see the power of a druid to defend their charge, they only need do this again."
Thorondir then casts --Speak with animals---
"Aewen, how did this become attached to you? Has anyone bothered you? If so, show me who and I will deal with them."
If Aewen gives some detail then Thorondir will wildshape into an eagle and have Aewen show him where this happened, and who may have done it.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Sunday July 12th, 2020 11:55:54 AM
Grindar tells Virgil that he will se him in the morning, then goes off to report to the rest of the pack, as well as to hear what news, they may have gained. He is perturbed that the Druids have been left out and assures Thorondir that if the Druid groves need defending, the Sentinels will be there! The idea of ownership of the boat is a simple thing to the half-orc, and he shares his view, “I have no desire to own the boat, and I don’t think that is something us Sentinels should consider, the only one who has the right to it’s ownership is Virgil, and I for one am willing to fight to make that happen if needed, though I would prefer not to!”

When Aewen returns, Grindar’s hand instinctively goes to his ax, though he waits for Aewen’s response before acting. If it comes to it, he will follow the two eagles as best he can on foot, to assist his friends.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday July 12th, 2020 11:27:21 PM
Caelwyn looks forward to hearing Virgil's words about the Baron. He has been wondering more lately about who the man is, and what his plans are for the Sargrass. He hopes Virigil will provide some new information, perhaps.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+9=28 ;
Monday July 13th, 2020 12:22:02 PM
'Lil's glad Sprocket's a reasonable fellah. "Yea, Virgil was real clear that he'd be captain. If he wants to just use the boat to sail around the grass seeking fame, can't say we'd be able to stop him. I ain't gonna stand for anyone tellin' him what to do with it. No sir." 'Lil's face is pretty hard as she says this. They're just all going to have to talk to Virgil and get this worked out. Hopefully with just him and her dudes.

She continues...

"I don't know much about carpentry, but I know enough to know that it makes a mess, and that there's usually sawdust and scraps involved. That wouldn't only be wasteful with this here boat, it would be disrespectful. Won't do to let little bits of Virgil's lifelong friend be swept up and tossed in the bin, ya know? We really ought to let the druids help shape the wood, which means at least a couple'a them should be on our side.

"Them Thorodir talked to didn't seem friendly or keen to help, though." She shrugs.

'Lil watches Akuno eat her fish. She ain't ever eating salted fish that wasn't soaked. She can't imagine that tastes good to humans.

"That must be some strong fish if you can taste it through all that salt, dude. Careful not to go dehydrating yourself out in the desert with that stuff." Heal: 28 to know the dangers of excessive salt consumption in the desert. Her tone's friendly and helpful, not judgy.

"We may as well go gather the others and have a sit down with Virgil. We all got a bunch'a speculation going on when the man with the answers is right over yonder."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday July 13th, 2020 12:38:47 PM
Bigby takes in what the other team share of the druids and about the many issues revolving making a boat from a being that used to live. Who would have thought that this is what it meant when they originally went out to get druid wood. Bigby was innocent of the Sargrass plains and he has certainly matured a bit after seeing the things they had seen out in the plains searching for druid wood. Bigby agrees it would make sense to have the druids help shape the wood. "I guess we are going to see how messy this going to be after hearing about the baron and from these merchants. That's all I got to say aobut that."

DM Steve -- Fish has been found!
Monday July 13th, 2020 9:30:40 PM
Stone Temple Village -- Module 4, day 19, morning
=====

It is evening when the group gets back together. They are without Sprocket, who it still looking for the village administators. Akuno is so happy to have found fish -- perhaps even fish of an edible sort, properly prepared -- that it's hard to understand what she has to say. Thorondir, 'Lil, and Sol talk about how the druids aren't being heard. Everyone agrees that they will fight for the grove if the trees are threatened. The idea of ownership of the boat comes up, with the more vocal Sentinels -- at least -- saying they don't want it. To their minds, Virgil owns the boat. The benefits of having the druids shape the wood are also brought up. Caelwyn looks forward to hearing Virgil's words about the Baron. Bigby also talks about the merchants.

Thorondir: Highlight to display spoiler: {Aewen says the knotted grass is okay, he'd forgotten about it. He was giving Llew's friend a ride. Thorondir is unable to obtain a description of the friend.} Thorondir and Aewen go flying, with Grindar and anyone else who wants following along. But it's just a circuit of the northern part of the village.

'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {Akuno could seriously make herself sick on those fish if she eats too much. Plus, the more salt she eats the more water she's going to need to eliminate the excess.}

The next morning, Virgil greats the party when they reach his thicket. It really is a little thicket. Only one of the living druid trees remains. The rest of the area is underbrush that obviously had magical help to grow so thick so fast. But it screens Genyielt from any curious villagers, and gives Virgil something to look at other than crops and grass. The party sits down with Virgil and fills him in on what they've been discussing.

Virgil starts with the merchants. "I don't actually know what the merchants want. The only person I've been talking with is Attius. Attius hasn't been talking with anyone but me, as far as I know, and someone named Flitch. I am certain that my colleagues have not talked with merchants either. Traders don't have a good reputation with us in the grove."

Virgil pulls out a scroll case hands Sol a piece of parchment from it. "This is what the druids who came to town want." Sol is able to make out an archaic script, and reads, There was a forest here. A forest that lived long ago, back when I was alive and out in the Wold. But Maab bid me sleep, and now this desert of grass usurps the forest's place. I can bring it back. I can mold forest and desert. . . "That passage is known as Eberyon's Promise. It dates from a previous age. Since that time, the Sar was born. Most druids hold to the promise. A few hold that it would be wrong to restore what once was at the cost of what is, without consent. Biel, and he may be the only one, doubts that we know the truth after all this time."

"You might not realize it, but the plains are a different place than the plains you will have heard about in legend. The biggest population in the plains today are the Harvesters, who went by a different name then. And they are very much not the same people that they were. The Harvesters are loosely organized and largely nomadic. I doubt you'll find more than fifty together at most times. When they were the Baron's Men, they were very different."

"The Baron's Men were very organized and very disciplined. They lived in magical forts across the plains. And they did the bidding of the Shadow King, who was rumored to have been Marteus. Although they were outnumbered at the time by both the Manfri and the Monks, the Baron's Men on their rapke mounts were the equal of any others as a political power. They were far more powerful than we druids were."

Virgil continues to describe a world that used to exist in the plains. The Baron's Men were dedicated to their own power base as well as the worship of the Shadow King. They believed it was a time of testing. Followers of Marteaus made pilgrimages here from far away lands to be tested as a Baron's Man. All were evil. They worked with the Traders and the Raiders, although those peoples hated each other. The Raiders made their living tricking and plundering Traders. The Traders included both merchants and pirates. But they all relied on the Baron's Men for wood for their boats, and the Baron's Men stole that wood. It was wood carefully nurtured in druid groves, known as Singing Oak.

"The druids in that time could not work openly. So they tried to assist Eberyon's Promise in secret. Here -- I don't know which of their enemies wrote this, it's greatly overstated --" Virgil fishes out another parchment and hands it to Sol. This one is torn and mostly illegible. The Druids are a group dedicated to the eradication of the Sargass Plains and the rebuilding of a great forest that stood before in the First Age. The Druids are composed of historians, non-Plains folk, and fey – although not all Druids are aware of each other. . . . . . The plan of the Druids is to develop trees that they can awaken with rites into treants. . . . . . Imported treants died because of the woldsblood in the Sargrass. For the moment, the druids are not aware of woldsblood causing these deaths. But, they do know Singing Oak can grow in the plains. So a new breed of treant is being developed from Singing Oaks. . . . . . they develop, picture a row of giant treants ridden by druids marching destroying the Sargrass with each step in a line between them. Then picture the Manfri riding moths, and other powerful Sargrass creatures opposing them. This is the grand conflict to come.

"Maab herself has told me a similar story to the literature that has grown around Eberyon's Promise, but different in key details. That makes me think Biel might be right. This is part of that literature." He pulls out a third scrap, written in a tightly cramped script. Yes there use to be trees on the Plains a long time ago. . . . . . what we call plains, though it would only grow to about two feet. Then a sickness came to the land that killed off the trees as they are older organisms and harder to change. The grasses though are faster growing and more survivable and thus took to the sickness and soon became what you see now. . . . . . though in areas the grass still remains short or is not exhistant at all. These new trees here are not born here so they cannot resist the sickness either and even ones that are born here sometimes are not strong enough. As you might have guessed, the council knows what the sickness. . .

"I have thought about this carefully. I worry that any attempt to have the druids in the same discussion as any merchant, no matter how honest, dooms it before it starts. I need you to find a way to make it happen."

Virgil sets down the scroll case after putting pack the pages he had removed. "I hope you can. If you can't, Thorondir and I are capable of representing the grove's interests in some respects. But we can't promise its help in getting the work done."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 3:09:58 AM
Sol reads over the pieces of paper a few times.

"So... the druids are looking to create a new Sargrass Resistant strain of treants and use them to destroy the Sargrass and rebuild it anew as a forest?"

He seems a little confused by the premise.

"Whether that is the case or not... we are here to discuss the Druid Wood boat, and what the plans for it are. It seems likely that there may be some... issues... with the Druids and the Merchants being in the same discussion... but if we..." he thinks for a moment, his voice trailing off. "Perhaps if we frame the discussion as more a plea from each side directed at yourself Virgil? As discussed, we feel the Druid Wood belongs to you. If we can get both the Druids and the Merchants to agree that your word is final, then give them each a chance to state their cases to you..."

He smiles.

"Then at least we know that you will still be in control. If we say it is either this way, or no one will get access to the boat they may accept it. Besides, that way you can decide what you feel is best and we can work with that. Obviously, we would like Rattledam to have access to it also, but I, personally, feel we can trust you to make the right decisions."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 10:53:14 AM
'Lil nods. Sol's got a good idea. All it's missing is someone to back it up...forcefully if necessary.

"Smart, but diplomacy only really works when there's threats of violence below the surface. We should make sure folks know we're here and ready to make sure Virgil's wishes are met by whatever means necessary."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 1:11:41 PM
Caelwyn nods in agreement with both of them. "I believe this is a wise courses of action, We might also want to consider limiting the number of participants in this meeting - maybe a few representatives from each group, for a smaller and more orderly discussion? If everyone is involved at once, it could quickly become mayhem if an argument breaks out. Above all, we must prevent any rash actions."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 1:32:08 PM
“We can always threaten to give a 2nd funeral, this eliminating the argument all together if people refuse to play nice!” Grindar shares.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 2:32:57 PM
Bigby always thought Sol was the smart one in the group so he simply nods in approval to Sols plan. Always better to have a plan in place, try it out and then regroup if necessary. "second funeral," Bigby says out loud with a chuckle. "I guess things are about to get more tense, so let's just get this overwith."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 5:27:57 PM
Surprised to learn from Aewen that she was giving a ride to Llew's friend, Thorondir decides to talk to the lion.
--Speak with animals--
"Llew, who was your friend that Aewen gave a ride to? What sort of creature was it? Have you know it long?"

When Virgil gives his information, Thorondir says to the group:
"Druids always seek to restore the natural order. As we travel across the Sargrass you are sure to come to the conclusion that it isn't natural, or desirable. We all play a small part, but if the time comes to heal the land I will be ready to do my part."
Thorondir looks around at the others.
"I realize that not everyone has the same view, but as druids we try and take a neutral path that benefits nature, and in turn everyone."

"I like Sol's plan, and I can help shape the wood for the ship. Perhaps we never needed the sailors, though perhaps someone to tell me what shape is needed might be important."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 6:26:41 PM
"I'm not sure that is what Maab wants though Thorondir. Just before we met you, we all had a conversation with Maab. In the conversation I mentioned that I hoped to someday fall in love with the plains, and she told me that she was saddened that I didn't already love the plains, which I interpret to mean she loves the plains and wants me to also. I know this isn't what was, but the grasses are natural. As a Druid and a Ranger, I have great love for all of nature, and I have even now learned to love the grasses of the plains. I'm not saying I would love a forest less, but for Druids to completely ignore and loath, one form of nature seems odd to me. If the consensus of the inhabitants of the plains was to attempt to recreate the forests, I wouldn't be against it, but to force ones will on the rest wouldn't be right, it would be no better then the Warper-Sar and his Mutation blossoms! Without some sort of consensus I couldn't, in good conscience, agree to it "

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 7:28:23 PM
Bigby adds, "Just want to add that whatever our decision is, I hope we will not be supporting any group who wish to harm or erradicate Beastfolk in any effort to restore things. Because that I will not abide by." Bigby looks over and nods at Akuno. Bigby was surprised at how he responded about the topic. Perhaps he was coming to some connection to his past during this time in the Sargrass.

DM Steve -- I like Sol's plan, and I can help shape the wood for the ship.
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 10:43:15 PM
Stone Temple Village -- Module 4, day 19, midday
=====

Virgil emphasizes that everything Sol read was written before the long wait, and that he intended to show the amount of distrust there is to overcome. He doesn't expect it to happen overnight.

The Sentinels propose to treat the wood as Virgil's property, and let everyone else make what promises they will to obtain its use. With only one or two people representing each group, the discussions may be manageable.

Virgil thinks that plan may work with all of the groups except the druids. They aren't looking for the use of a druidwood boat. But it's a good start. He will ask Attius to tell each of the affected groups to provide one person to represent them, and start discussions in two days. As he counts them, the affected groups are the druids, the merchants who hired the sailors to come, the monks, the harvesters in town... Rattledam (mentioned by Sol), and beastfolk (mentioned by Bigby)... He wishes the manfri were here, but they have not responded to a message he had sent. The Sentinels will be there to keep the peace. Is there anyone else?

There is some debate about whether or not they actually need the sailors. Virgil settles that. "I suspect the druids could figure out how to shape the wood, but it would take a long time for us to learn to sail. Without a sail, we're limited by whatever would tow us."

The group talks together for the rest of the morning. When the time comes to say goodbye, Virgil asks them to think about what they would want to say and try to find out anything they need to know today or tomorrow. He bids them good day, with a promise to see them day after tomorrow.

.
Thorondir: Highlight to display spoiler: {Llew can's tell Thorondir much about his friend. He's nice. Llew met him at the last town, but he had the smell of the grove about him. It's small, hardly weighs anything.}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 2:52:50 AM
Sol nods.

"I would hope very much we have to say little and that the discussion will be cordial and manageable. It may also be an idea to have a neutral 'chair' so to speak... someone who every group can trust to be unbiased to manage who is speaking, or have an object you must be holding if you wish to speak, that is passed around the group. My staff could serve in that function, though it may be wiser to choose one that isn't usable as a weapon..." he smiles jovially.

"But for not, let us relax, tomorrow will bring interesting challenges and I wish to be prepared for them."

During the afternoon, Sol will look around and see if he can find anyone with spells he may be able to learn/copy, assuming there is time. But he will be certain to get to bed early to be up and refreshed for the next day.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=11 ;
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 11:50:39 AM
"I have no desire to have the beastfolk gone." Thorondir says to Bigby. "None of us have a choice in how we are brought into the Wold, and it is only by chance that we are who we are. I was referring to the environment needing to be natural."

Thorondir calls down Aewen and preens her, checking again to see if she has grass tied to her.

Talking to Akuno he says: "What is your favorite color? Do you like pink? I've recently learned a fun little trick to make things glow. Here, let me show you. Don't worry, it is temporary and causes no harm. See that blade of grass by Llew."

He turns and casts faerie fire with a pink hue centered on the grass next to Llew. Everything in a 5 foot radius from it glows with a pink outline.

DM:Highlight to display spoiler: { I'm looking for a pixie or other invisible creature near Llew.}

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 2:40:03 PM
'Lil's tried to stay neutral in this whole restore/mutate/preserve argument, but try as she may, darned if she ain't managed to form an opinion on the matter despite her best efforts.

"I dunno, Thorondir. These grasses have been here a long time. You got whole societies and...what you call them...ecologies? Yea, ecologies based around'em. We gonna tell'em to shove off with their whole way of life just because this place used to be a forest? There's lots a forests in the world, dude. There's only one Sargrass. Don't really see how forcin' that issue can be called 'neutral'". Her tone ain't ugly; she hopes this don't grow to be a point of contention between her and her dudes.

'Lil thinks about the whole boat business when she's got time to herself. She wants it used to help ferry new folks to Rattledam. Supplies too, but mostly folk. She ain't forgot her argument weeks ago that Rattledam needs more people in it to thrive. It was the first big disagreement the Sentinels ever had, and if they'd gone and gotten the wood for the boat and it wasn't used to help Rattledam, then it really was the worst outcome of all the choices they considered.

She was prepared to argue to worth of her cause, but she wasn't gonna put undue pressure on Virgil. She's real, real firm about him being the first and final decision maker on the matter. Besides, she trusted Sprocket to handle that argument. Far as she's concerned, her job's muscle until she sees a real good reason to open her mouth.

She keeps an eye on Akuno, making sure she don't get herself sick on those fish.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 3:26:24 PM
Bigby nods to Thorondir showing they see eye to eye on beastfolk from his response. Bigby was not looking forward to this meeting being described. If it were up to him they should simply have more fights to settle arguments. You learn about yourself and another person in a fight. Hmmmm...a dome where people could settle arguments. Bigby thinks outloud..."two men enter, one man wins an argument." Bigby looks over to the pink flower trick and laughs at his musings.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 6:20:14 PM
Grindar feels he has said all he has to say for the moment. Like Lil, he feels that Virgil has final say so with the ship. He personally has no preference as to whether the Sargrass remains a plains or becomes a forest, as long as all parties are on the same page, but will fight tooth and nail to protect any people who wishes to keep things as is.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 7:39:11 PM

Akuno watches the magical lights and smiles. "That's pretty great, Thor! I'll have to see if I can make that work someday. I don't think I ever learned light magic, mostly because I see fine in the dark."

Akuno is aware of the salt fish and how it could dehydrate her, the sailors were nice enough to let her in on that. She hadn't quite figured out how to work up the nerve to ask Lil to make water buckets for her fish. Maybe it could be a reward?

She's happy enough just to hug the cod in her hands right now. Tastes aside, she was just happy to have it.

------------

When Bigby points out that some factions might be against the Sar effects that "spawned" beastmen, she gets a bit somber. She offers an extended fist to Bigby, hoping for a knuckle-bump of solidarity.

"I.. don't feel like the business of the tree or Virgil concerns me to be honest. I'm new to this pack, and this is a heavy responsibility you all shouldered before you met me. What I will do, instead, is promise to help you all realize any vision you think is right for everyone. But I don't think any situation where fighting is the outcome is the right way to go."

DM Steve -- There's only one Sargrass. d8=5 ; d20=19 ;
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 10:29:55 PM
Stone Temple Village -- Module 4, day 21, morning

The group is lost in heavy thoughts and discussion as they leave Virgil.

Sol suggests that there should be someone or some way to manage who gets to speak. He then goes searching for new spells. Thorondir provides a momentary distraction for the rest of the group. He seems anxious as he does so, all the same. Everyone else discusses the concerns they have. Sol comes back in the evening without success.

Thorondir: Highlight to display spoiler: {No pixie or the like. At least not this time.}

The next day arrives and passes. The meeting will start the morning of the following day. A message from Attius comes saying that it will be held in a front room of the Stone Temple.

The next day, it's time to go help Virgil. The Sentinels arrive as requested, earlier than most others. One of the druids is outside, examining the construction. The Stone Temple is a large structure clearly built with stone that is not from the local environment -- at least not anymore. The stone temple is constructed of simple grey-ish stones with some sandstone mixed in to highlight and contrast colors in places. At only one story tall but wide, images of trees are carved into the stone in various places. The trees appear to be pointing (swaying?) towards the door. The doors are hard wood with iron bandings, also not from the contemporary Sargrass. Carved into the door is an image of what appears to be a god but not one you would easily identify.

"Thorondir, what do you think of the sculpture?" the druid asks.

Inside, Virgil calls the group to one of the front chambers of the building. It is fairly large, with eight chairs set in the room. One chair is centered against a wall. Along the wall to its right are three chairs, separated by several feet. Along the wall opposite those three are four chairs -- two of the chairs are together, the others set apart by several feet. (Here is a map.)

"Good morning," Virgil says. "I suppose we better get this over with." He gives a sigh. "Thorondir, please stay with me. Akuno, please take one of those two chairs," he points to where the chairs are set together. "I should have warned you, but I don't think it will make any difference and you didn't need the worry." He turns to the rest of the Sentinels, "You either. I need you to set the ground rules for maintaining order. Take a few minutes to think about it, and let the others in."

When the time comes to let the others in, Virgil greets each as they enter, making sure he knows their name and directing them to a seat. He then moves to the center chair. (The "c" on the map.) Clockwise from Virgil are:
Trosdan, one of the druids; Cat, a harvester (although a more conventionally dressed than Freakshow); Akuno, beside an empty chair; Edith, the merchant, with a man standing to the right of and slightly behind her chair; Sprocket; and Attius.

Perception DC 25 (+5 if you are a druid):Highlight to display spoiler: {The buttons on Trosdan's clothing are pewter acorns.}

Akuno: Highlight to display spoiler: {The man with Edith is the shipwright who told you how to soak your fish.}

"Good morning, everyone. I'd like to --" Virgil begins.

"Wait a minute, Virgil," says Trosdan. "I thought we were supposed to be one to a group -- who is he, and why is he with her." Trosdan points across the room to Edith and her companion.

Virgil continues smoothly, as if he were expecting such an interruption, "Well, Trosdan, as I was about to say, I'd like to have everyone introduce themselves. But first, let me introduce the band that brought us together today. These are Caelwyn, 'Lil, Grindar, Sol, and Bigby. They set out through the Sargrass looking for a way to help their community, and impressed the Fey Queen along the way. They have also accepted the possibly more difficult task of maintaining order today. They will explain the rules of order here, including the consequences for further outbursts and whether Camber can stay."

The man, meanwhile, gives Edith an odd look that he controls quickly.

=====

OOC: Characters have one day of opportunity to retcon simple tasks before the meeting is in full swing.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 11:50:06 PM
Caelwyn huddles up with the others before the meeting begins. "I think we should keep things simple and straightforward. Everyone has the right to speak and be heard - perhaps we need a physical object you must be holding in order to speak, as they did at Rattledam? I feel like Virgil should be the facilitator, the moderator of sorts, but I am also happy to fill this roll if need be - I have done a fair amount of negotiating in my time. One outburst results in a warning, a second in a final warning, and a third results in your expulsion from the meeting. We will of course be on hand to maintain order. Thoughts?"

When the time comes, Caelwn hopes to find out more about who Camber is before deciding if he can stay.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=15 ; d20+11=24 ;
Thursday July 16th, 2020 12:16:05 AM
Thorondir spends the morning prior to the meeting flying with Aewen, keeping a sharp eye out for who may have tied the grass to her.
Perception 15

When he gets to the temple Thorondir responds to the druid in their own language "The trees would look better swaying on the plains, but for now it is a pleasant reminder of what was and could be."

Perception 24 at meeting
He takes his place by Virgil. He looks at the empty chair by Akuno and asks Virgil: "Who is the empty chair by Akuno for, or is it not empty?" He bows slightly to the chair, looking directly at the seat area.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=12 ;
Thursday July 16th, 2020 3:04:44 AM
During the free day, Sol will spend time gathering stories and histories from people who will talk to him, both the merchants and the druids and anyone else in the village or the temple, and write them down in his book.

Sol nods at Caelwyn's suggestion, and smiles cheekily, speaking quietly.

"Like I suggested a couple of days ago?"

Sol is clearly just teasing and coming out of his shell a little. He also wants to find out more about Camber before deciding if he can stay.

However, he does speak to the group of assembled parties.

"Distinguished guests, thank you for coming to this discussion. The rules are simple, you will only be able to speak if you are holding this.." he brandishes his quarterstaff. "...and you are recognised by Virgil, who is the chairperson. You will each get a chance to make your case, and ultimately, Virgil will make the decisions. We are here, partly to ensure everyone plays nice, but also in part, to represent Rattledam. However, we are here much more for the former rather than the latter."

He then moves round to Virgil and hands him his quarterstaff.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+13=20 ;
Thursday July 16th, 2020 6:55:13 AM
Grindar agrees with his friends regulation ideas, and adds, "And if they are expelled and refuse to leave, I'll pick them up and carry them out.

At the meeting Grindar, after Sol shares the low down, Grindar stands up and says, "We will be civil towards one another! Do you understand me?! He makes it clear by the tone of his voice that he isn't playing around, and is more then ready to bust some heads if anyone gets too out of line. He isn't looking forward to another council meeting, as he feels he got more then his fair share in Rattledam, but he does his due diligence, almost hoping for the opportunity to go hands on with someone.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday July 16th, 2020 11:07:18 AM
Bigby gladly gives up that fist bump to Akuna.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+16=24 ;
Thursday July 16th, 2020 11:10:18 AM
perception 24. Bigby is standing next to Grindar as he gives his message. To stand in solidarity of that message Bigby stands with arms crossed tapping his foot with Wolfgang next to him. "Mhm," Bigby mutters and with a lifted eyebrow as if to say do you smell what the pack is cooking?

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=9 ; d20+10=13 ; d20+10=26 ;
Thursday July 16th, 2020 11:32:44 AM
Perception: 9
Sense motive: 13 - Maybe 'Lil figures out Akuno wants some water but don't want to ask?

'Lil figures it's important to know the strengths of you & those around you. 'Lil knew how to handle herself in a fight. She could heal and comfort them who needed it. Most importantly right now, she knew how to talk in tough situations and had a good head on her shoulders. Most'a her dudes other than Thorondir couldn't match her there. She hopes one day her dudes will learn not to be so fast with their words. Saying they're here to speak for Rattledam and the muscle, then threatening everyone in attendance, don't paint the best picture.

Credit where it's due, though: Cae sure knew how to talk pretty.

She places a firm hand on Grindar's shoulder. "Best be practicing what we preach here, dude. Ain't no one getting violent yet." She faces the rest of the folks here. "Sprocket will be talking for Rattledam. Ain't gonna pretend we don't all have hopes about how this ends up, but we're here to make sure Virgil's word is honored here, no matter what that ends up being. So lets all of us just be cool."

Diplomacy: 26 - 'Lil's trying to get things off to a calm start where folks are already on edge.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d6=4 ; d20=4 ;
Thursday July 16th, 2020 10:20:42 PM

Akuno sways back in forth in her chair, kicking feet that come just a little shy of the ground. She watches the sentinels with big curious eyes, ready to be impressed. Although she wasn't raring to be a part of the deliberations, she happy to keep a watchful eye on the attendees.

Perception, 3. Looking for hidden weapons.

Until of course, she remembers that she tucked a couple of fish away on her before they came her. Her lips were a little dried out, and she had been burning through her water supplies, but she wasn't going to complain. Prestidigitation made it taste less salty, even if it wasn't.

-------

After a bit she tries to entertain herself, wondering who is going to sit next to her. She waves excitedly at Freakshow and Attius, and then leans in close to whomever Cat is.

"Hello Cat.", she says with some hint of conspiracy in her voice. "Don't be alarmed, I have a fish." She pats the salted fish she's been nibbling on, then tucks it away in a pocket.

DM Steve -- Simple and straightforward. d20=15 ; d20=5 ; d20=18 ; d20=16 ; d20=17 ; d20=17 ; d20=11 ; d20=9 ; d20=15 ; d20=9 ; d20=20 ;
Thursday July 16th, 2020 11:29:08 PM

Virgil asks Grindar to hand Sol's staff to Edith long enough for her to explain who is with her and why he should be allowed to stay. They Sentinels will decide if he may stay or not. Then the rest of the group will draw lots to determine the order they will speak in.

When Virgil introduces Akuno to the assembly, he notes that the beastfolk and the manfri are the newest and oldest of the dwellers in the Sargrass, but each is the product of the third aspect of the region -- harnessing change. He also notes that the empty chair is there as a reminder of the manfri.

Edith nods. When she receives the staff, she explains, "I am Edith Culliver. I represent a group of merchants. In order to assist with the building of this boat, we obtained the services of experienced shipwrights. We hope in return to gain access to the boat to move goods to the places where people most need them. This is Cambridge Stott, one of the shipwrights. I had to bring him, because he knows his capabilities -- I do not. We need to have an accurate understanding of the work involved, and only he can tell us."

As Edith concludes, the harvester, Cat, starts to speak. He then realizes he shouldn't yet, and shakes his head. Virgil takes five straws -- short straw speaks first, then people will be allowed rebuttals in reverse order -- and lets everyone but Edith draw one, starting with Sprocket and going around the room to Akuno. The resulting order is Attius, Trosdan, Sprocket, Cat, Akuno, and Edith.

.....

Attius explains that the monks have been decimated by the long wait. The village here at the Stone Temple is as large as it has ever been, but that is because they have taken in others from places that are no more. The monks need new blood, or their way of life will not last. And while the others may not care about that, the monks still tend to the Crystal Mountains. Without them, there will be catastrophic results. The monks need the boat to bring new recruits in reasonable safety.

Attius is not a smooth speaker. He seems flustered to be first in the spotlight.

.....

Trosdan's message boils down to: The druids have already granted wood for the building of a boat. There is debate among them whether this was the right thing to do, but they have accepted it. However, they are not now inclined to grant more. Without their help, the boat being built will be of inferior quality. They can shape the wood, and get the best use from it. To obtain their help, though, they want promises that there will be no raids for more wood, and that the others will help them rebuild the forest that was once here.

Trosdan's delivery is even worse than Attius'es. Other members of the group tense up as he talks about the changes he would like to see, particularly Cat.

.....

Sprocket explains that he is one of the settlers of Rattledam, a new village being built on the site where the old one once stood. The came from Hook City, in the employ of Duke Rowan, and swore an oath -- to strive against banditry, protect the Noble Races, and tame the wilderness. The Sargrass has been a harder life than they realized it would be, but they made it to Rattledam and are now largely trapped there. It is an oasis in the grass where they are protected, but they need to be able to travel from Ratteldam in safety. The community will die if they do not find a way to do so. Rattledam would be ready to punish any who came there with druid wood not freely given by the druids, if there is a way to tell. They would be ready to contibute their labor to the building of a boat -- or such parts as could be built in Rattledam, anyway. They would use the boat to bring more settlers and the materials that would help to build the community. They would like to be able to provide and receive aid from their neighbors. Sprocket hopes that the boat can become a community resource.

Sprocket speaks with sincerity and eloquence. The others nod at various points throughout his delivery, even if they aren't moved from their own agendas.

.....

Cat is amused to have been invited. The harvesters have not sought out a boat, and the druids should not worry about them trying to steal wood for one. They are learning to live in the Sargrass as it is, adapting to it rather than bending it to their will. And they are thriving in a way that other people are not. Harvesters grew as a people during the long wait. The druids grew because they were in the Vales of Twilight, but they will begin to decline again now. The Manfri declined in the Vales, and may begin to grow. Harvesters will not work to restore a forest. As for the notion of punishing anyone who stole druid wood, the harvesters are scattered and unorganized. He cannot speak for them all. However, Cat and his village would gladly barter their labour and skills to their neighbors who do want the boat.

Cat speaks almost as well as Sprocket, but what he has to say is clearly unwelcome to Trosdan and Edith.

.....

Akuno should also provide her perspective.

.....

Edith talks about trade being the lifeblood of civilized communities. Caravans have come into the Sargrass, but they are already dwindling -- the place is just too dangerous for the small ones, and lacks the resources to attract larger ones. But the people living in the Sargrass need access to tools, metals, the materials needed to build and better their lives. She talks about the places that the villages would recruit from also being places where goods can be obtained, and the need for regular routes in order to secure the best trades. The merchants are willing to pay for most of the construction labor, in return for established routes and cargo space.

Edith is not up to her usual standard at dealing with other people. Trosdan is clearly unconvinced, and bristles when she mentions Hook City during her discussion. Cat scoffs when Edith mentions lacking resources.

.....

It may have sounded orderly above, but there were tense moments. That much discussion took several hours. Please let me know if the shipwright was allowed to stay. Please also include diplomacy rolls when talking about the boat yourselves. 'Lil's saved some trouble this post.

Virgil asks Attius if he can bring in lunch, and asks the Sentinels for their opinions during the break this provides. It might also be useful it they explain to the group why they do or don't think the boat is needed.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=18 ;
Friday July 17th, 2020 12:05:46 AM
Caelwyn is of the opinion that Camber be allowed to stay - his perspective on this seems to be important, and he is not directly connected to Edith. He attempts to outline for the others some of the reasons why the Sentinels believe the boat to be necessary.

"Some of us were originally hired to protect the new Rattledam settlement - we wish to see it grow and thrive, and the boat will be absolutely necessary for that to happen. We have a variety of views about the forest, I believe...I like the idea myself, but we don't all feel the same way. We are of one mind, however, that druidwood is not something to be harvested and used by anyone - this tree, and boat, are a special exception."

Diplomacy 18

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday July 17th, 2020 3:24:59 AM
Sol, having slightly messed up, keeps a smile on his face and tries to look confident, but decides to not say anything more at this juncture, other than to say that he has no issue with Camber staying. He's thinking about how to make the boat work for everyone so everyone can access it as needed, but he won't mention it unless the Sentinels are asked to speak up.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday July 17th, 2020 7:54:19 AM
Grindar lets out a small grunt of dissatisfaction at Lil’s chastisement. In his mind he never presumed to speak on Rattledam’s behalf. Sure he wants to see it prosper, but since the Sentinels are rarely there, he doesn’t feel as though they can accurately speak on their behalf, and besides, that’s what Sprocket is here for. He feels that the current role of the Sentinels is enforcement of decorum, and one of the best ways, in his mind, to maintain said decorum is to let people know what the consequences of stupidity are. He keeps is thoughts to himself however and takes the chastisement.

He has no problem with the shipwright being in the meeting.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=22 ;
Friday July 17th, 2020 12:43:52 PM
To be fair, 'Lil didn't chastise no one for speaking on Rattledam's behalf and bein' the muscle. She kept them thoughts in her head. She still didn't think it was best to start this thing out so hostile, though. Her and Grindar are gonna have to agree to disagree there...

***

"Telling the druids we won't tolerate folks harvesting their trees seems like a no brainer, but I got a hunch ain't nothing gonna be good enough to convince them." She thinks on what would make everyone happy, but ain't sure that exists. So, she thinks on who needs to get made happy.

She comes to the conclusion that the druids need to be made happy. It just won't do to sloppily build that boat outta Virgil's friend. She also has a duty to Rattledam she can't ignore and thinks Stone Temple has just as much right to exist as they do.

Before she's ready to cement that thought, she needs to hear from the shipwright, though...

She adds to what Cae's talking about. "We've already lost a bunch of merchants and settlers tryin' to get to us. I've said for a long time we need bodies more than anything in Rattledam if the place is gonna thrive. A few well-stocked hardy people ain't a city, it's a camp."

Diplomacy aid other: 22

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday July 17th, 2020 1:03:49 PM
Bigby doesn't object to the shipwright being there as well. Ships need captains. It was unfortunate that the manfri wasn't there. To Bigby this was starting to get complicated. If we made a decision one way it seemed someone else was going to be offended. If only we could get the groups to somehow trade and teach each other their skills. Show each other the value of interdependence.

Ah but this was not Bigbys strength. Bigby looks up to Grindar and nods his head that hes ready to knock some sense into these people if needed. He brings a fist to his chest to encourage Grindar.

Bigby asks the group later at lunch when its just the sentinels why the harvesters are worried about the druids request of a forrest? Also about these supplies with what Edith talks about...can't just learn how the harvesters or manfi work with the land? Perhaps they could teach us. I mean limitted boat and all, I choose people. Or atleast thats my first thought.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday July 17th, 2020 1:31:01 PM

Akuno is a bit surprised that she's giving her thoughts on anything. She knows she's probably younger than everyone else in the room, and she knows that probably no one takes her claims of royalty seriously. So why? She thinks for a minute, kicking her feet quicker and quicker to try and jumpstart her mind.

"I'm really more an outsider for now, than anything else. I'm also not sure how far the royal authority of my family extends, so I can't really make a decree either. But from where I'm sitting, all of you communities just need to find something that binds you."

She puts a finger on her lip, thinking.

"Attius wants the Monks to be able to have reinforcements. If the monastery fails, everyone is in trouble. Trosdan can promise the best and most able ship. but wants help regrowing a forest and a promise of maintaining the sanctity of druid wood. Sprocket also wants to use the boat to pipe in settlers and keep people safe. Rattledam is an oasis for regular people, that wants to be a community everyone can depend on." She looks at Cat for a moment. "Cat doesn't like fish, but seems to still be an okay person. He doesn't need a giant community it seems, but any kingdom that isolates itself is going to pay eventually. And he won't be able to trade with anyone if the boat is poor, the people are too scared to migrate, the monsters are overflowing, and they gain a reputation as stubborn and aloof." She looks at Cat and Trosdan. "Maybe a forest preservation could be set aside? You can't expect everyone here to want to upset the whole grasslands. Would a sizeable reservation be a comprimise?"

She can't respond to Edith.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=12 ;
Friday July 17th, 2020 7:32:00 PM
"Forests always start as a grove, and it takes a long time for them to spread. It isn't a threat to the grasslands, as they seem to go on forever. Most places I have been there are both forests and grasslands, as well as marshes and fens. A complex system is always more healthy than a simple one."
Thorondir says, though expecting nobody to understand.

Thorondir looks around to see if anyone is listening to him. Perception 12

"Personally, I don't need a boat but I can see how bringing city folk and goods can benefit from use of a boat. If you loop the druids into the construction, we can make sure all of the wood is used for construction of the boat. I have seen a lot of waste from sawmill construction, we don't need to do that here. We can shape the wood, if the shipwright can tell us what shape works best."

DM Steve -- Telling the druids we won't tolerate folks harvesting their trees seems like a no brainer. d20=6 ; d20=1 ; d20=3 ; d3=2 ; d3=2 ; d3=2 ; d3=1 ; d3=1 ; d3=3 ;
Saturday July 18th, 2020 12:09:51 AM
Stone Temple Village -- Module 4, day 22, morning

Akuno's discussion surprises people, for the most part favorably. Bigby asks some pointed questions during lunch, but only his fellows hear them. Caelwyn and 'Lil express opinions that the participants take seriously.

When it is time to resume, Virgil says, "Before we hear from the shipwright, I would like to emphasize one point. Cat has said the harvesters don't want druid wood. Sprocket has said that Rattledam will punish any who bring druid wood not freely given. I have heard promises to fight those who would steal the wood. Are we all agreed that taking this wood from druid communities without their consent is a crime?" He receives general agreement that this is a crime.

Trosdan then speaks out of turn, "It isn't surprising that people would agree to that in principle, but those very same people could easily turn around and commit a crime if they thought they would get away with it." This causes some ill will, as other members decide he is calling them liars or thieves. The others agree he did not follow the rules of the debate. (Akuno's opinion would not change this outcome.)

When order is restored, Virgil asks Cambridge to speak. "My name is Cambridge, but you had it right this morning -- I've been Camber since childhood. Anyway, I know this boat is important to most of you, so I don't know how to tell you this. . . You see, the way a boat floats on water is caused by it's shape and the fact that it's lighter than the amount of water that would fit in that same shape. The way a boat floats on grass? I don't know. I'd have to take pieces of the wood and float them, see how much they could carry, and so forth." Trosdan erupts at this, too, and has to be calmed. When Camber continues, he explains that he doesn't really know how much the boat could carry, not having seen one in use. "But I can tell you that you can't make a sizeable wooden boat out of a single tree."

There is a bit of a debate after Camber speaks, but aside from Trosdan's earlier outburst it progresses in an orderly manner. Cat says that Camber speaks sense. Trosdan is insulted that they are talking about experimenting with Genyielt's body. Edith accepts what Camber says implicitly; Attius and Sprocket have no particular opinion. Virgil looks a bit sad, but says nothing.

The discussions become more emotional in the afternoon. Cat says harvesters have been figuring out solutions to the problems they find in life with materials on hand. If there are no shipwrights, they could find a way make a boat work. Camber tells Cat that although he's sure the harvesters are skilled, they're not going to suddenly discover hundreds of years of knowledge. If the harvesters build anything without him, it will be a barge that has to be towed from place to place and whatever is towing it will still face the dangers people are trying to avoid. Cat says at one point that the others need to learn to work with the resources the plains provide. Edith responds with a question about what Cat expects to trade harvester labor for, if it isn't metal implements they can't make in the plains. Trosdan reiterates that he expects support for the return of the forest. The others pick up Akuno's suggestion that the druids should have a reserve, except for Cat; he scoffs at the notion. The question builds whether the monks really do anything for the plains, to Attius'es dismay. Sprocket says that he had heard that the Crystal Mountains ran from one side of the plains to the other without interruption, but he walked here from Rattledam without leaving the grass. This gets the attention of both Cat and Trosdan, who stop their questions, but seems to upset Attius.

By the end of the day, everyone but Sprocket and Camber has received a warning or two.

Virgil asks everyone to consider a few questions that have arisen, and return in the morning. These questions are, "Do you support restoring a limited amount of the plains to forest for the druids?" This seems likely to receive support from all but Cat, who has called it pointless, and Trosdan, who objects to limitations. "Would you turn over to druidic justice anyone found with wood that had not been free given? Is there a way to tell whether the wood has been freely given -- marking it somehow?" Attius has some thoughts on attuning crystals, but will have to work out details with the druids. "Will you help to build the boat?" Answers to this one no doubt will depend on answers to, "What do you expect to receive in return for your help?"

"To be clear," Virgil says to the assembly, "I may have to rely on others to do the sailing, but I expect to be in command of the ship."

With that, the group breaks up for the day. Virgil asks the Sentinels to remain a moment. Trosdan hangs around until everyone else has gone.

Perception DC 12: Highlight to display spoiler: {As they are leaving, Sprocket asks Attius to talk with him this evening.}

Before he leaves, Trosdan tells Virgil, "Gheall Eberyon foraois dúinn." Virgil replies, "Dúirt Maab an bád a thógáil."

Druids: Highlight to display spoiler: {Eberyon promised us a forest and Maab said to build the boat.}

"Thank you for your help today," Virgil tells the party. "Especially you, Akuno. Also, Caelwyn and 'Lil, I think you were convincing. I would like you to propose your own answers to my questions first thing tomorrow. And what do you think of what Camber had to say?" He sighs, "I wish the manfri were here. They will have their own perspective about restoring forest, and I fear they could undermine anything we agree to in that respect if we over commit to having one."

Akuno: Highlight to display spoiler: {Include any points Akuno would have made in response to the discussion above.}

That night, sleep comes easily, but the next morning comes too early.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=14 ;
Saturday July 18th, 2020 9:30:49 AM
Sol nods.

"I think Camber makes a good point... how is he to know the best way to make a ship if he has no experience with this kind of ship... though instead of using smaller parts could the druids not simply fashion the wood into a boat and we can test it then? The shape can then be adjusted as needed by a druid if it has been found that it is not in the best shape."

Sol is more talking out loud than expressing specific opinions, as if he's trying to come to a conclusion himself and is doing so by just talking it through.

"I think beginning with a forest reserve is a concession the druids will need to make, though how they would make a forest I do not know, I was under the impression that forests would require water, which I remember us being told not to spill on the Sargrass... I will admit druids have methods beyond my ken, but that seems somewhat insurmountable."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Saturday July 18th, 2020 11:54:26 AM
Grindar keeps quiet for most of everything, he’s a little frustrated that this council couldn’t have been wrapped up in a day, though he does ask Camber why they just can’t use the skiff in the museum to get their dimensions, then expand them accordingly. When alone with Virgil, and Virgil mentions missing the Manfri, Grindar realizes that Needles people, the Climbers, aren’t represented either. He asks Virgil if he knew why they don’t have a representative.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=16 ;
Saturday July 18th, 2020 6:47:45 PM
"Not all trees require lots of water, some need no more than these grasses."
Thorondir says to Sol
"These trees usually have small waxy leaves so as not to loose moisture. Sometimes they have green bark with thorns on it, and they also drop their leaves during the hottest times of the year. When they flower, they do so at night so the flowers don't dry up too fast."
He looks to Sol and around at the others.
"I can expound more on this if there is interest."
You can see he hopes there is.
"Oh, and a forest isn't a concession, it is a natural progression of the land."

Perception 16:
"It looks like Sprocket has some personal business with Attius, perhaps they seek to united forces."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday July 19th, 2020 10:00:54 PM
Caelwyn is happy that the discussions went as smoothly as they did - no major problems, beyond a few interruptions and outbursts. He is cautiously optimistic going into the next day. He does his best to answer Virgil's questions.

"Yes, I would absolutely support a return of some forest. And I would think it sensible to turn anyone caught illegally trafficking druid wood over to the druids to face justice. I am no carpenter, but I would be happy to help build the boat as directed by the craftsmen and Virgil, and I would not expect anything in return. It is my duty to help Rattledam flourish, but also to support any who are in need, as a servant of Domi."

He also expresses his support for Grindar's idea about using the skiff as a template, to understand how the druid wood actually floats. Even if everyone agreed that Genyielt's body could be used for experiments before the ship was built, the wood was far too precious to waste.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday July 19th, 2020 10:02:31 PM
Caelwyn also has had a nagging thought in his mind recently - how far is Rattledam from the elves of Dre Moria? Does anyone know? He asks around and sees who might have some idea.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Monday July 20th, 2020 8:35:12 AM
'Lil ponders on what Thorondir's sayin'. It all sounds good in theory, she guesses. Still she can't shake the feelin' that these druids, if not Thorondir himself, sure seem to think this place is an abomination that needs to be destroyed.

I mean, she thought this place was unpleasant and dangerous, but abomination seems to go a bit far. Still, she reckons this is just her opinion on a bunch'a folk she don't know too well. As a lot, they sure do make bad first impressions though.

She's thinking the same thing about the skiff when Grindar speaks up, so she just keeps her yap shut. She's happy for the day's talkin' to be done with. She wonders what Sprocket may want with Attius, but them's two dudes she trusts. She decides not to be nosy.

When out of ear shot of the rest of the druids (hopefully it's just her and her dudes at dinner so they can talk in private), she takes Thorondir up on his offer. "Ok dude, expound. I've gone and got myself opinion on this matter despite tryin' not to, but I ain't one to ignore the experts on stuff I don't understand."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday July 20th, 2020 12:51:40 PM

Akuno is also a little sad it isn't wrapped up.

"What about concessions? Thorondir, do you think the Druids would trade a promise of an oath to prosecute theft of druidwood against a promise to limit the size of a grove? As long as their goal is to overtake the grasslands with a forest, they won't have cooperation."

She thinks a little more.

"Also, what about a raft? If the treetrunk floats naturally, wouldn't a flat raft work out? Even I have built those with my friends back home. It seems like the easiest solution."

Akuno also points out that even she has a spell that could mark things. She's certain Druids and Wizards could do the same.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=14 ;
Monday July 20th, 2020 4:24:52 PM
Bigby thinks Grindar has a good idea about the model of ship that the duke had. "but couldn't we also mend spell the wood if any that gets mishaped by error? I mean we did that once before on the original ship we had...before it got burned." Bigby leaves it at that. I was either a good idea or not, but he was ready to move on.

Bigby listens to Thorondir about the trees and takes it in. It was all very interesting.

Bigby notices the two go off and talk.

DM Shane. d100=40 ;
Monday July 20th, 2020 9:08:17 PM
As the elder of the meeting, Virgil starts off the proceedings by speaking first.

Ladies, Gentlemen, We are all meeting here today to discuss the need for a boat to cross the Sargrass plains. since this is a new venture, the construction of which will put an undue and disastrous potential financial stain upon any one person to attempt it in these early days, it has been suggested that it be a group venture. we are here to discuss the construction of the boat. how shares shall be allotted, what remuneration is to be expected, and any other such concerns and items as shall be legerdemain to the topic at hand. I shall now pass the quarterstaff around and let everyone introduce themselves

he hands the staff to his right where a Human male accepts the staff with a gracious bow. Hello everybody, Some of you know me, My name is Archie Culliver, he gestures to his right where an attractive redheaded woman sits, and this is my wife Edith. We own the two taverns in Stone Temple, The Crystal Palac and Culliver's. We have been chosen to represent the merchants in the deliberations. as such are needs and expectations are plain. We all benefit from the increased trade and smoother shipping inherent in a boat and as such we are willing to contribute substantial coin toward this venture and in return, we request that no excise taxes every be put on goods and services related to shipping. we also request that any agents we detail to be given free boarding to destinations they are taken two while in our employ and that all present commit toward the recruitment of suitable females of fine temperament, and good education to Stone Temple. This place is becoming a bit lawless and rowdy, women will serve to settle the men down and bring some culture to this place. .

His words bring to mind that you have seen very few women in Stone Temple, and it does explain the sense of strained civility you feel about the place. He passes the staff to his wife who passes it to the next man in line.

The druid that asked Throrondir his opinions about the carvings stands up and takes the staff. Greetings all, [b]My name is Jedediah Moss. I will represent the Druid covens in the negotiations. We can offer expert druidic assistance at shaping and conserving the wood, as well we will be supplying the wood to make the boats. This venture is in all of our interests, the Druids will benefit from the increased trade as much as anyone else. We only ask that this assemblage keep in mind the sacrifices that were made for the wood he nods at Virgil, Indeed it is in all of our interests to fight those that would destroy us and we can better do that with growth. . he passes the staff on around.

A tall man, seems to have the air of Rattledam around him. Takes the staff and stands up. I’m Horace Littleton, I represent Rattledam in these proceedings. We wish to invest in the ship you are building we can provide financial help as well as material. In return, we ask for the ship that is made be able to carry as much cargo as possible, and that it be made available to open new markets as they become available. We foresee this ship as a conduit that will open the doors for more settlers and more goods and services.
A representative from Monks Village, Brother Mayzle, takes the staff and says pretty much the same thing as the man from Rattledam.

When all sit down, A shipwright, Bendy James, outlines what he can build and how much it will cost and how much he will need.
“first off how many boats do ya want? With the materials I’m smelling so far I can build one keelboat probably about 50x20, she’ll move about 5 knots, (30’/round) carry about 40 tons of cargo or 100 soldiers, she’ll need a crew of 8 to 15 sailors, depending on skill to man her.
Or I can build 3 barges, 20x20 platforms, move about 3 knots (20’/round) each will carry about 10 tons of cargo or 30 soldiers and they’ll take 4 to 8 sailors each to man her, depending on the skill of course.
I’ve left out 2 boats because at that size you don’t get any benefit, you only gain about 5 tons of cargo, still about the same speed as a barge and it will take the most crew to man them, same as the keelboat only doubled.

The discussion now turns to what everybody wants.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 6:33:59 AM
Grindar wonders what is the best option. the keel boat design carries more then all 3 barges combined, and moves quicker as well, but having more then one boat sailing around the Sargrass could be useful in times when more then one party has a need for it, and could be helpful in relieving tensions. He has visions of unhappy parties complaining that they aren't getting equal access to the boat. He shares his thoughts, and decides that, even though he is fine either way, he would prefer to see three barges sailing the Sargrass then one keel boat, with Virgil being the commandant of the wee fleet.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20=9 ; d20+2=15 ;
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 1:12:04 PM
Caelwyn looks to Virgil as the shipwright speaks of building numerous vessels. Symbolically, it would be far more fulfilling to construct one mighty ship that would represent his fallen companion, but several small ships would make more sense in terms of keeping everyone happy and getting more accomplished. He tries to gauge Virgil's reaction. He is relieved the meeting has started so well.

Sense motive: 9
Perception: 15

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 3:26:17 PM
multiple boats? Im not sure I follow why three or one is better than two boats, but Im not that kind of expert, so ok. hmmm...it might solve some issue having three boats versus one boat."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 5:21:07 PM
Sol thinks for a moment.

"I personally feel three boats will be more beneficial. Simply because each faction that is interested can then have one, the Druids, the Merchants and Rattledam. It would prevent disagreements over ownership and time using the boat, even if it means shipping takes longer. Also, if a particular group needed, they could perhaps barter for another groups boat, to rent. Having one boat would not speed things up too much, especially if you cannot access it. But then again, I know little of how often each group may need to use the boat or boats, so that may have an impact as well."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 10:41:28 PM

Akuno is confused. There's more new people, and sometimes that throws her off. Still, she can't find a reason to think fewer boats is better.

"I mean, there might be a time where one huge boat is good, but I think small boats always running are better for smaller communities? Although that means more captains are needed."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 11:20:54 PM
"Well, it goes to the concept of diversity. If you only have one of something it is more vulnerable. The reason there is little to hunt in the Sargrass is that the ecosystem isn't complex enough. Having only one boat is sort of like having only one type of grass or game, the system is prone to fail. So more boats, and adding some stands of trees to the Sargrass. Both will benefit the inhabitants."
Thorondir smiles as he is sure he has just taught important concepts to the group.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 11:51:40 PM
'Lil nods and listens to Thorondir. It was an angle she hadn't considered, that's for sure.

"Ok dude," comes her reply. She turns to the folks assembled. "What he said. Seems like he knows how best to survive out here. I still ain't used to livin' in the wilderness."

DM Shane.
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 12:11:28 AM
the discussion starts. Virgil keeps silent, merely acting as MC for the discussion. The business owners want as much cargo cap as possible, The government people want the same, but are also want the convenience of having multiple boats with which to carry messages back and forth...it's kind of funny to watch the Rattledam rep argue with the Monks rep from Stone Temple. they both want the same thing, but keep arguing with each other over different points.
The Druids want the single big boat because they think it will project power more while a sailor brought in by the merchants argues from multiple boats as he thinks they will be less prone to piracy and in case of piracy they feel they have a 2 in 3 chance of escaping with multiple boats.

The arguments are civilized, but there are points of contention that need to be addressed.

"Sol's" argument gets promptly ignored, sense motive 12 Highlight to display Highlight to display spoiler: { cargo is very important to all parties save the sailors, they don't think they will get enough supplies with a 10 ton weight limit. and they don't trust the other polities to help with their 10 tons. }.

Bigby Wolf the shipwright tries to explain it to you, but it does not make a lot of sense. probably due to his use of archaic naval terms with which you are unfamiliar. [/b].

the other members of the party keep their thoughts close to the vest.
sorry y'all posted as I was posting.

Thorondir and Akuno's words though do have an effect. The Sargrass is a dangerous place, as everyone here knows, and one big boat is useless if it gets destroyed. Even Druid Moss shakes his head in agreement with that.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=20 ;
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 4:39:50 AM
Sol shrugs when his argument is dismissed. He's said his piece and doesn't need to add anything. Besides it sounds more like the different groups needed to start agreeing rather than disagreeing, which he wasn't terribly qualified to help with.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 7:48:49 AM
Grindar feels he as said all he can. Right know the meeting needs diplomats not people of action. Of course this is why he never feels comfortable in these situations. He tries to make the best of the situation, trusting his more charismatic friends to get the job done.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 2:24:41 PM
Bigby listens to the ship wright. He pretends like he understands, but slowly starts to day dream of hunting. In the end Bigby shakes his head in agreement. "ok, one or three boats, not two boats." It seems that 3 boats may be their answer.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 6:41:43 PM
"I don't understand the political or economic advantages of one boat or three barges. I do understand that having diverse resources is better than a single resource. Sort of like putting all your eggs in one basket."

Thorondir doesn't add more to the conversation, as folks reasoning, or lack thereof, are more complex than what he is accustomed to.

DM Shane.
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 7:59:08 PM
see the addendum to the post for the 21st, I was unaware that you all posted late, and I missed your posts in my reply.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 9:30:06 PM
Caelwyn speaks up when the opportunity arises. "I believe the idea of creating three boats makes more sense, but there is also a risk with smaller vessels...one large boat will have more soldiers to protect cargo and travelers. What are the biggest risks the boats would face, and could the smaller boats hope to survive traveling these lands?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 11:08:55 PM
'Lil briefly wonders how they went from "there's not enough wood for a boat" to "do you want one boat or 3?" Either way she's outta her element with this one and leaves it to the experts to decide.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 12:59:40 PM
Bigby speaks to his pack about his thoughts, "well you know what they say 3 boats are better than 1. 3 more than we had before." He then thinks what if 3 could converge together into one mother ship. Ah there he goes with that crazy thinking again. The idea of things combining...kind of reminded himself of his relationship with Wolfgang.

CDM Jerry [OOC post]
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 10:29:42 PM
Sent this out this evening:

Woldians!

Our only means of communication is via email. That means that as a part of your membership, you are responsible for checking email daily. The easy way of course is to check emails before making your post. Even if you are playing via phone at times, check your email.

We've only had to fuss at a few over the years for not reading emails. We've only had to threaten 1 with probation for not communicating. We have seen an increase in difficulty when trying to reach members [players and DMs] over the last year or two so I'm sending this reminder.

To be a member here, this is one of your responsibilities like posting. I'm tempted to have Sheriff Zach list names of folks who did not reply to emails within 24 hrs on posting days. No I'm not there yet. :)
So anyway, please check your email. :)

CDM Jerry

DM Shane.
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 10:35:50 PM
Caelwyn's words spark debate anew, with the merchants going back to the idea of one big boat while the city reps go all in for 3.

'Lil wonders about wood availability, the druids are willing to supply more, and the merchants and the city reps are willing to provide funding for the enterprise.

Bigby voices his stance on the position. and thinks about his relationships.

Virgil listens to the discussion with a look of deep thought on his face. he calls the shipwright over and has a quiet conversation with him.
Satisfied by what he discussed with the man, he stands. the discussion quiets and all eyes turn to him.

Three small boats or 1 large boat. Might it be possible to add a little more funding and a bit more wood to make 2 large boats? I've asked Master Bendy and he says that if the Druids can help with waste that 7/8 the amount wood pledged so far and three quarters more gold he can make 2 large keelboats, but they will have to be made concurrently, at the same time for him to be able to do it. he says that the construction will take approximately 3 years. and that no that's not because it's two boats, it's because it takes time to make a ship. .

The discussion goes from what type of boat to figuring out the material and financing almost immediately. the boat has been all but commissioned, it's just a matter of time.

as the folk who thought of this, you have some celebrity in Monks village, and a few weeks into the build Bendy has a request for the party.
The Sargrass boats aren't like regular ships. they utilize grass in their construction. We have folk who can weave here, but the Manfri are wizards when it comes to weaving the grass. I have a couple of men who've dealt with them before, but they need an escort to the manfri village out in the sargrass. it's a bit too dangerous to walk it alone, I was wondering if your group would mind the duty?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 11:14:15 PM

If Akuno was confused, she's really surprised now. She didn't think any more wood was even on the table right now.

"And how long would three smaller boats take? It sounds like three years might be stretching some of these communities resources and endurance."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 11:41:27 PM
Caelwyn shares Akuno's surprise, but then thinks he grasps the meaning of Virigil's words. "We are not using "more wood, exactly, but rather asking the druids to help manage waste so that 7/8 of the current wood will be able to make two boats, is that what I am hearing?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20=10 ;
Friday July 24th, 2020 3:15:49 AM
Sol nods.

"I think we can perhaps act as an escort! It is nothing we have not done before after all."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday July 24th, 2020 6:53:07 AM
Grindar is a bit confused by the Druids wood contribution as well, but figures they know what they are doing, and he knows they would never kill any of their trees, so he just excepts it. He literally let's out a sigh of relief when asked to go on escort duty. "Yes, I would be more then happy to help", Grindar says, almost before the request is finished. He is happy to have the chance to do something, anything, other then sit in meetings.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Friday July 24th, 2020 12:54:18 PM
Three years? Wowza. She hadn't planned on it taking that long. Still, she's real glad everything's decided and folks are working together on it.

When they ask'em to go help folk meet with the Manfi, 'Lil's all over it, surprised by how much she starts looking forward to trompin' out into this grass desert what wants to kill her.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday July 24th, 2020 1:09:27 PM
"wow 3 years? so this is a long term investment," Bigby thinks outloud. "Well then it seems like we got other things that will keep us busy in the meantime." What would rebuilding the forrest look like? And last time talked the Manfri their main guy walked away. Oh interesting times.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday July 24th, 2020 2:02:55 PM
"Aewen and I will go along to protect you until I have been released from my duties, though I hope it isn't for another 3 years."

He looks around at the group and adds:
"Besides, Bigby and Akuno makes things interesting. I have a lot to learn about beastfolk, hopefully they will be willing to teach me."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday July 24th, 2020 8:54:08 PM
Caelwyn is also supportive of bringing forest back to the plains - more trees would help everyone.

DM Shane.
Saturday July 25th, 2020 1:59:50 PM
in the weeks after the negotiations are settled you come to understand a bit of the deals that have been made. the two boats will take more wood than a single boat, but with the druids helps they are able to shave 1/8th of the amount that would normally be needed. The druids have spells that can grow wood which they will use to supplement the wood of Virgil's friend. building a ship takes a while, and already the call has gone out for workers to work on the extra ship.

getting geared up for a foot trip into the Sargrass will take a few days, is there any shopping that you need to do?

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday July 26th, 2020 8:51:36 PM
Caelwyn does his best to prepare for the trip, communing with Domi and stocking up on supplies. Are there potions for sale anywhere nearby?

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday July 27th, 2020 10:27:13 AM
If Grindar as access to the Catacombs, he will go and have his MWK hide armor upgraded to +1 armor, if not, he is ready to go when everyone else is.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday July 27th, 2020 2:09:05 PM
"The Wold provides, even here in the Sargrass. I don't need to shop."
Thorondir is ready to go, but spends his days waiting in eagle form flying and hunting with Aewen.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday July 27th, 2020 4:13:23 PM
ooc: would be nice to have access to pay my WLA dues so I can get that feat.

Otherwise its just another day for Bigby and Wolfgang in the land that wants to kill them. Get some eggs and eels for second breakfast.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Monday July 27th, 2020 9:44:30 PM
'Lil could use a trip to the Catacombs, that's for sure. If she can't, she'll at least grab three extra water skins to make sure Akuno doesn't dehydrate herself with all that fish.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday July 27th, 2020 11:48:19 PM
Caelwyn sharpens his weapons and thinks about recent events, hoping that all parties involved in these debates will continue to agree as much as possible.

DM Shane.
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 12:28:17 AM
Caelwyn looks like a trip to the catacombs for you.

Grindar the catacombs is always available. the Catacombs always have a portal installed anywhere there is a significant population.

Thorondir flying over the Sargrass is an experience, the place positively teems with life. game is plentiful.

BigbyStone Temple is not quite big enough to host a WLA chapter...yet. you might check and see if the catacombs they might can help you out. [/b]

'Lil You have time to go to the Catacombs.

two men will be interfacing with the Manfri, Joseph, and Mark Yardarm. bothers. who were born to the sargrass, they request to look over your packs before you head out.

To 'Lil.
"[b]Aye, lassie, it's good your thought of water, it can be a mite hard to come by in the grass. but a Rapky or the bugs will sense that water the first time you pull it out and it'll draw all manner of vile beastie. Do you mind if I hold it? I have a special bag that will keep things from sensing it. and I've straws we can use to get water without the smell of it causing trouble.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=7 ;
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 2:59:43 AM
Sol spends the few days relaxing, writing in his journal and preparing for the journey ahead.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 7:47:06 AM
As Grindar is waiting for his armor to get upgraded, he spends his free time hunting, preferably with Bigby and Thorondir.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 6:02:27 PM
Bigby will join whomever to Catacombs to see if they can assist with his WLA fees. And if time, hunting they will go with Grindar and Thorondir.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 6:04:34 PM
'Lil gladly listens to this dude, then gets to shopping!

*I'll put my Catacombs order in tomorrow. Real busy day.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 11:09:18 PM

Akuno (Whose post yesterday went poof), finds chances to put herself next to 'Lil and the others. She's curious about what this catacombs is, and what its for?

Otherwise, she flits about between their wonderful menagerie of animals, and tries to be something close to useful.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 11:35:42 PM
Caelwyn also head off to shop, seeing what might be helpful for the journey.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday July 29th, 2020 8:55:50 PM
Caelwyn brings his weapon to the catacombs, hoping to upgrade his longsword.

DM Shane.
Wednesday July 29th, 2020 10:30:26 PM
The party relaxes as they get final prep done. trips to the catacombs and hunting trips are the order of the day.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday July 30th, 2020 12:20:02 AM

Akuno spends some time poking around the catacombs, but has her bases covered. She's also mostly out of gold anyways.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday July 30th, 2020 2:55:39 AM
Sol just relaxes and begins psyching himself up for the journey, ensuring he has everything he would need, and nearly continually writing in his diary.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday July 30th, 2020 6:43:38 AM
When not hunting, Grindar will try to get to know his new pack mates, especially the reclusive Thorondir. "Thorondir my friend", the half-orc begins, "I've been trying get a read on you for a while. You often refer to your time with us as an assignment, and I supposes that was the case, but dude, we have fought together, and bled together, and to my mind that makes us brothers. You know everyone in this pack, even Akuno, in her own way, would fight for you and your feathered friend without hesitation, so why do you chose to avoid embracing the pack. You have been using the title Sentinel, and you have certainly earned the right, but when will it no longer be just a title? You'er one of us, or at least that's how I see it, but the question is, will you ever see it that way?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17
Thursday July 30th, 2020 12:05:27 PM
'Lil's at the catacombs, waiting for someone to help her.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday July 30th, 2020 4:06:16 PM
Thorondir listens to Grindar speak. He nods thoughtfully and says:
"Well, when the druid council assigns a task it is crucial that the task be performed until the end. Failure isn't an option. So I have been sent to watch over Genyielt remains and this group until Genyielt is made into a boat. I thought when we arrived here and met the ship wrights that my duties would be over and I could return to the grove soon. You can imagine my shock when I find it will take three years for this to be done. How it can take so long I do not know, but I am bound to all of you until this is done."

Thorondir looks around at the others of the group that are near.

"I did not expect to become attached to this group. I usually do my duty and then go back until I am assigned again. However, I have come to learn so much from you. I couldn't imagine that a group of humans, mixed-race elves, an orc spawn, no offense, could work together for something good. Then these beastfolk, they are interesting. Since I am bound to stay until the ships are built, I appreciate your offer of membership in the Sargrass Sentinels. I will protect you with my life, but of course that was my duty from the beginning. Now, if I give my life trying I will feel it is even more worthwhile. I accept your invitation."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday July 30th, 2020 7:13:40 PM
Bigby agrees with Grindars words and just gives thumbs up. Say something about Grindar, he knew how to make one belong. He looks over to Thorondir and nods his approval of him being a part of the pack and is apprecitaive of his words.d

To the catacomb people: "is there WLA around? I just want to pay my dues."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday July 30th, 2020 11:24:38 PM
Caelwyn muses over his purchases in the catacombs, thinking about how much he has to spend.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday July 31st, 2020 7:40:59 AM
Grindar is thrilled that his words had their desired affect. He says the Thorondir, “I take no offense, however, even though my parents were both the result of orcish violence, I’m a second generation half-orc. Also, I understand duty and don’t fault you there, though I’m glad you chose to call yourself a Sentinel!”

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Friday July 31st, 2020 11:40:18 AM
'Lil shows up from'er shoppin' trip wearing a shiny new breastplate and a fancy backpack. She arrives just as Grindar's talkin' to Thorondir. She smiles big. "You're one of us now? Right on, dude. Up top..." She holds her hand up for a high-five.

She takes her new backpack off and shows everyone. "I got one'a them backpacks that holds a bunch of stuff in a pocket dimension or something. If we're headin' out into the grass again, we should fill this bad boy up with supplies just in case we run into trouble or can't find no critters to eat." She goes ahead and puts the water skins she got earlier in there, figuring that smell probably wouldn't escape in here.

*'Lil is ready to move out.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday July 31st, 2020 1:52:45 PM
"What is this 'up top'?"

Thorondir hesitantly raises his hand and gently touches Lil's hand.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday July 31st, 2020 10:18:22 PM
Caelwyn follows Lil and Grindar back to camp, his longsword honed and ready for battle. "That was a wise purchase, Lil - I agree, as much food and water as possible should go in there."

He smiles at Thorondir. "Glad to have you as one of us now."

DM Shane.
Saturday August 1st, 2020 5:15:22 PM
Akuno and Bigby you guys do know that the catacombs is a Woldian page right? it's in the Discussion page next to the loot and booty inn. it's a magical portal to plateau city where the wolds biggest magic shop is. you can go there any time you are not actively being attacked. DM's discretion of course.

Sol prepares for the journey and writes in his journal.

Thorandir and Grindar find that a bond of brotherhood has developed through the mysticism of spilt blood, combat camaraderie, and a mission.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Sunday August 2nd, 2020 6:15:09 PM
Seeing Thorandir's hand slowly approach, 'Lil meets him half way, clapping their hands together. She just smiles and goes about her day.

'Lil makes sure her pack has plenty of water skins and rations. "Akuno, I can carry a bunch of your fish in this thing if you'd like." 'Lil figures it's a win win: she takes some load off the diminutive cat girl, and she can make sure Akuno doesn't dehydrate herself.

She also makes sure there's a comfy bedroll. She's open to any and all suggestions on what to pack in it.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday August 2nd, 2020 11:07:26 PM
Caelwyn sits alone for a while, thinking and communing with Domi. He is clear on his mission here, and finds purpose in it, but his greater purpose is still a mystery to him. He still sees little hope of achieving his ultimate dream...and begins to wonder if it even needs achieving. Perhaps he can follow the will of Domi without it.

But regardless, the people of Rattledam need him now, as do his companions. He looks forward to the next mission.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Sunday August 2nd, 2020 11:28:51 PM
"Though I didn't expect it, I am happy that I have been welcomed into the Sargrass Sentinals. Normally a guide does his job and gets reassigned to another group. Best not to get too close under those circumstances. Though Grindar, I haven't spilled blood with you. I managed to get rid of spiders without getting bitten. If it is necessary, I am willing to spill my blood but I hope it isn't a requirement to join."

Thorondir is new to this bonding and belonging to a group that isn't composed entirely of druids.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday August 3rd, 2020 4:51:05 AM

"Sure thing!" Barrels of fish were tasty, but they were hard to ride on, and it was a little taxing keeping a Floating Disk available at all times during the day.

To DM: Yessir, I know. Akuno, does not. This characters entire adventure catalog consists of 4 spiders.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday August 3rd, 2020 6:41:31 AM
Grindar bursts in to a good hearted but full on laugh. He puts a his hand on Thorondir's shoulder and says, "Brother I pray to Pantheon that you never have to spill your blood! It is a metaphor for the brotherhood that is found while taking up arms against the same threat. Blood letting isn't necessary, though sadly it is a common side affect".

After that, Grindar is ready to go onto the next adventure!

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday August 3rd, 2020 2:11:43 PM
Bigby decides to let the WLA thing go, seeing as how he has had little luck with that organization. "oh well, suppose I will find it eventually, and if not, then it just wasn't meant to be,"[b] Bigby thinks, but actually says outloud. On another note, and in response to Grindar and Thorondir's conversation, [b]"if the pack needs me to bleed, then I will bleed."

DM Shane.
Monday August 3rd, 2020 6:19:17 PM
the party bonds and completes any preparations that they think are needed for the trip into the sargrass. The Yardarm brothers aren't in a particular hurry to go into the grass on foot, but they also don't shirk their duty in regard to the task either.

on the way there the bothers talk about this group of Manfri.

Joseph: aye Mark, you think the old man is still in charge of the village?

Mark I dunno, Jo. He's been around longer than you or I, and knowing our luck he'll still be there when we arrive.

Joseph Blast it! you are probably right, Domi! what a pain in the rear is he. ugh! I think we ought to let our companions know what they will be dealing with when we get the aye?

Mark I think that would be a find idea bother.

The Sargrass is hot. walking on the floor no breeze reaches you, and rather than being cooling the constant shade of grass seems to smother rather than give relief. . travel is slow. so dense is the grass, so tall and so thick that walking is even hard. the brothers stop to rest every hour and drink water. but rather than taking out a canteen and tipping it up, they go through a special procedure to get their liquids.

joseph takes off his backpack and sits it on the ground. he reaches into it and manipulates something inside for a few moments. at the end of his manipulation, he pulls a short staw up to the edge of the bag from which everyone can get their drink. "Lil Highlight to display spoiler: {}if you show him your backpack he will show you how to do this as well.

The first time this happens Mark explains.
Water is more precious than gold on the plains. sure you can sweat and all you will attract is flies and such. but the beasts of this place can smell pure water for miles around and the quickest way to get more trouble than you want is to be careless with your water. Joseph has a backpack that is enchanted, it's larger on the inside than on the outside. it's also made in such a way as things that are in it are sealed off from the outside world. so he can open up a container of water in the backpack and the smell does not get into the air, when you drink from the straw, be careful not to let any dribble from your mouth or fall to the ground. I'd hate for a group of rapke to kill us all just because someone was untidy in their drinking habits. .

He is right about the bugs though, biting flies, beetles, dragonflies it seems like every time you move a blade of grass a swarm of some kind of bug flies into the air. To be such a dry place, it's amazing how much life surrounds you at all times.
The brothers are good pathfinders though and are able to find good forage as you travel. though some of their findings are a little on the odd side. (Mark finds some large yellow caterpillars that he claims are delicious), still, others are a recognized boon to all. (the stalk of Chorly grass Joseph finds is fine eating for all.). The brothers seem to know their way around the Sargrass. and prattle on about how to look for things, what to watch out for, when its in season, why it's good and where to find it. It's good information and the men work together as a good team.

they also talk about the Manfri, and in particular the leader of this Manfri tribe. He is a stickler for protocol. He's is of the old ways and will brook no deviation from what he thinks is right. That's a problem as only the Manfri know the Manfri ways.
Mark I reckon the way we've always done it is to just hang around, go from meeting to meeting until we eventually manage to not trip over our feet enough for him to let us have what we came for. With any other people I have ever dealt with, the value of what you have to trade is the important part. it's a haggling game. you have to not bid so low as to offend them, then it's just a matter of finding what is equitable to both sides. with this guy. shoot, the trade is a pittance. but the way it is done is what is important to him.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday August 3rd, 2020 10:48:41 PM
"Apparently bleeding isn't a requirement, just the willingness to bleed." Thorondir says to Bigby

Thorondir spends 4 hours a day flying in eagle form with his friend Aewen. Typically they fly in the morning, and get a meal out of it if hunting is good. The rest of the time, he walks along paying careful attention to the things he is being taught about the Sargrass.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday August 3rd, 2020 11:22:25 PM
Caelwyn listens carefully to all the brothers have to say. "Will you be the ones to speak with him when we arrive? I would gladly volunteer, but I confess I am rather ignorant as to the customs of these people. We have only met them briefly."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 3:06:25 AM
Sol listens to everything the Pathfinder's have to t say, and notes it all down in his journal, about the different grasses, what's in season etc, and also about the leader of the Manfri tribe.

"What sort of protocol will we have to follow? Can you explain it to us?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 6:53:38 AM
Grindar is far more interested in the ins and outs of survival in the grassy wastelands, then he is in diplomacy. The big half-orc has had his fill of diplomacy for one life time, and if he has to sit through yet another round of meetings, he's not sure he will survive. "I would rather face a rapke then another meeting.", the Ranger whispers to Bigby, as they move along.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 8:30:51 AM
"Hey, I gots a backpack just like that!" 'Lil shows the brothers her own pack, stuff full of water skins, fish, and camping supplies. She takes a moment to be proud of her prudent purchase.

'Lil still ain't fond of moving around in this desert, but finds it's a lot easier to do it in a breastplate than a full suit of chain mail. She thinks about all them hours she spent learning the ins and outs of wearing full suits of heavy armor, and how unlikely they was to be useful in this grass desert. She wonders something...

"Hey guys," she starts asking the brothers, "how come we don'ts use a machete or something to carve our way through this place instead of trudging through like this?" She ain't stupid. She figures there's a good reason, she just ain't sure what it is.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 3:25:33 PM

Akuno trudges along for all of about two minutes. It doesn't take long before old habits kick in, and she in near inconsolable. While her enchanted dress DOES keep itself clean, the lace doesn't help with the heat. Instead, she casts some quality of life spells.

Rose's Temperature Control keeps things nice and cool, and from time to time she even has a shiver from the chill air she creates. Once walking is revealed to be a hassle, foating discs are cast, and yoked to her unseen servants.

Pillows in place, she snuggles in for the difficult ride. When the Manfri is brought up, she tries to be helpful. "I know -some- of you don't think my amazing sense of empathy is as spectacular as I do, but I'm excited to meet a Manfri again. I can handle the diplomacy if you want!" Rejection here is the most likely outcome, she knows, but her confidence and pride demand she at least offer to take the duty from her less cosmopolitan fellows.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 6:50:44 PM
Bigby considers Throrondirs clarification and responds, "I suppose that makes more sense. Thanks for explaining." Bigby hears Grindar's response to meetings and chuckles and nods in agreement. Bigby thinks about the last fight with a rapke. it was scary but what a fight. Bigby snaps back to reality of the marching through the sargras. Bigby thinks, Wolfgang you gotta learn to move through grass like I do. One day you will get the trick. As for the Manfri, Bigby liked the Manfri he met. Perhaps he could learn more of their ways. And hopefully he doesn't offend them like last time. Oh well, you live, you make a decision and learn to deal with the consequences. Well maybe, just maybe you learn not to offend them again by going hunting when supposed to be listening. Bigby just laughs at that. Might as well laugh as much as you can...one day there will be no laughing when youre dead. That was just Bigby's way of living.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 9:51:50 PM
Caelwyn listens to the brothers' response about the Manfri, eager to learn as much as he can about them before they encounter them again.

DM Shane.
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 11:26:29 PM
The brothers tell stores of the Manfri while walking in the heat. things about not showing the bottoms of your feet, giving a thumbs-up sign, or eating while standing. a gift to the guest's house you are staying at is okay...mostly....they seem torn over whether or not it was an expensive gift or a cheap gift that offers offense. and both put up compelling arguments for both.

Joseph eh...there is no Roobars rules of order for the Manfri that I know of. The younger ones seem to be a bit easier to get along with, but don't let the elder catch you talking to them or they will shut up. one fo the big sins with the Manfri is to gainsay an elder to his face. behind his back is fine, but not in front of him.

Thorondar and Bigby further clarify the nature of the brotherhood. between his listening and flying Thorondar is able to learn quite a bit about the nature of this place.

Mark smiles at Caelwyn Wow, you might can help. you seem a rather personable fellow, and lord knows me and Joseph are more used to haggling and pathfinding than we are the intricacies of court speech. Not the the Manfri have that sort of thing, but the tribal mores are in their own way as difficult as a high court. . The brothers have lots of stories about the manfri, and they generally contradict each other rather than agree most of the time. You don't get a sense that the brothers are lying, just that they seem to be missing something about their culture that is as important as it is invisible.

"Sol" you get the feeling that the brothers, while having a lot of experience with manfri, still know little of the workings of their society. [/b].

Grindar lets Bigby know how he feels about meetings.

When Joseph sees that you have a Handy Haversack as well his eyes light up and he starts grinning from ear to ear. He gushes over the wisdom of your choice of kit. Apparently water discipline in this place is a big deal, and you seem to have passed some sort of test with the brothers by bringing the magical backpack. They have never been unfriendly, or discourteous, but they seem to relax around you now more so than the others.

Akuno finds that she can easily avoid the drudgery and toil with a bit of magic. it seems to alternately impress and frustrate the bothers. your offer is taken with a bit of a disbelief at then with some serious consideration,

Mark well, I will say this, you certainly think outside the box, maybe you can get through to them faster than we can. [/b]

At the end of the day, you maybe have traveled about 10 kilometers( 6 miles), though it feels like you have traveled 100 kilometers{60 miles). I'm going to need night watch order from you all.

Mark takes first watch
x
x
x
x
x
x
Joseph takes last watch. and makes breakfast.

.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 3:11:42 AM
((OoC: Sol needs uninterrupted rest for spells, so ideally would go either very early, very late or not at all, but otherwise Sol and I don't mind))

Sol nods, keeping the notes, he writes down some of the more interested and potentially important stories, (things with cultural differences and such that may not have been mentioned, or things he things he can tie into other stories to make a sort of pattern of culture) he also makes it clear that when there is a disagreement, he writes both sides down and makes a note that there's not a consensus, so he knows the party can't fully trust that.

Sol seems a little bother by the heat, but is too dedicated to writing in his notebook, after all he carries very little since Grindar kindly offered to carry the pack of the rather physically weak wizard.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 6:45:16 AM
Grindar listens to the stories of the brothers, and tries to glean what he can out of them. He isn't fussy as to which Watch, so he'll probably take one in the middle of the night.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 10:43:09 AM
*We had a watch plan on our game's wiki page, but looking at it now it's obsolete and a little over-complicated.

'Lil prefers first watch since she can't see in the dark. Last watch is fine too for the same reason. She lets the brothers praise boost her ego a bit.

She tries taking in all they're sayin' about Manfri traditions and whatnot, but it's hard since they don't seem too sure'a what's right. She gathers it's real easy to upset'em though. Her own meeting with one'a them didn't go great, and she wasn't too impressed. She worries some that they're all like that, but stuffs the feeling down as prejudiced and decides she ain't gonna let that encounter sour her on the whole bunch.

***

A manfri asked us a question a few weeks back and hinted at offering us steelgrass technology. When we didn't immediately realize the gravity of what they were offering (or even that they were offering it in the first place) and express our gratitude they took their ball and went home. It left a bad taste in 'Lil's mouth; she considered the whole incident childish.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 4:26:09 PM

Akuno's watches are also used to employ her remaining spell slots with Alarm spells. Most of her first level allocation is spent on quality of life improvements, but there's usually a couple slots left at night.

"I don't mind sharing a watch with someone who can't see in the dark, since I can, but it should also be known I'd lose my tail if it weren't attached to me. If someone wants to sneak up on poor Akuno, they'll succeed unless they get seen by my unseen servants or my alarm spells."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 4:34:33 PM
Bigby takes the midnight hour so he and Wolfgang can howl at the moon.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 6:22:37 PM
Thorondir will take the watch right after Bigby.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 11:47:13 PM
Caelwyn vounteers to take the morning watch just before Joseph. It will be a bit lighter by then, and he enjoys waking up earlier to enjoy the serenity of the dawn hours.

DM Shane.
Thursday August 6th, 2020 12:29:55 AM
The night passes uneventfully, the bugs get worse, the heat less oppressive. but the creaking of the grass in the night wind is rather soothing.

as you awaken in the morning there is a man in the camp. he is abnormally tall, and he seems to have entered the camp without anybody seeing him. and he showed up just as you all were waking up. when he turns to look at you, you know who this is. it's is one of the aspects of the Sargrass plains. The Walker Sar.

"why are you here?" He asks simply. and then fades away, just as Joseph turns from watching the brush towards you guys.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday August 6th, 2020 6:29:03 AM
"Well it sure would be nice if he let us answer someday!" Grindar says while standing up, I got a bone to pick with both the Walker-Sar and the Weaver- Sar, for allowing the Warper-Sar to make those mutation blooms, and all the carnage that has come to pass as a result!"

After his rant, Grindar grabs his gear and prepares to head out.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Thursday August 6th, 2020 8:56:47 AM
'Lil figures that dude can probably hear anything she says, so she goes ahead and answers him.

"Same thing I told you last time. A rich old dude in Hook City paid me to help establish a foothold here." Her tone ain't nearly as annoyed or irreverent as the last time this dude popped up. She's just talkin' straight with the Power. "We're helping good people and I'm proud'a what we're doing, but I don't getta just decide I ain't bound by a contract with that dude no more. Even if I felt like doin' that, pretty sure the geezer dropped a geas on us, so my hand's kinda forced." A lot of her companions are under no such compulsions or duties, but they can talk for themselves.

She decides she'll soak some fish for Akuno to be nice, but stops herself. How's she supposed to soak the fish when the water will draw critters down on them? She can probably soak'em IN the pack's interdimensional space, but what to do with all that salty fish water when she's done? Maybe Akuno can drink it? Nah, too much salt. That defeats the whole purpose of soaking it. She asks the brothers if they have any bright ideas on how to make it all work.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday August 6th, 2020 4:15:19 PM
"hmmm which is the one that we had threatened before. I mix them all up. Ok, let's go hunting!"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=18 ;
Thursday August 6th, 2020 4:15:37 PM
survivial 18.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=12 ;
Thursday August 6th, 2020 4:48:28 PM
"What is with these guys? Hard to answer a question if they disappear so quickly. Really though, we need to do a better job on watch."

Thorondir is a bit disgusted that someone can walk in without being seen. Once they break camp, he does his morning ritual of changing into an eagle and flying above the party. He keeps a sharp eye out for more of these folks.

Perception 12

DM Shane.
Thursday August 6th, 2020 11:51:34 PM
to "Lil'both Michael and Joseph are familiar with dried salted fish. and they both insist that while it is a great food to have on a ship and near the coast, it's worse than useless in the Sargrass.

Maybe if we come across a creek you can soak some, but contaminating water is a mortal sin against survival when walking the plains.

Joseph is a bit chagrinned about letting someone into the camp, but he insists that no one passed him during his watch..

[b]Grindar vents his spleen about the invasion of the camp. Michael shrugs and exhales [b]Yeah...whaddayagonnado? I mean the Walker is an aspect of the immortal power of the Sargrass, He can really do as he wants. heck they all can!

the creatures of the Sargrass are wily and know how to hide in the grass. you do happen to nail a chukker prairie chicken near the end of the hunt. Make a DC 18 survival roll please Bigby

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday August 7th, 2020 2:57:29 AM
Sol is stunned by the appearance of the Walker, and says nothing, continuing to think in silence as they break camp, once they've been walking for a good amount of time, just long enough for people to forget he's there, Sol speaks.

"I am not certain that question was directed at us to answer so readily. I suspect it may have been more of a question to make us introspective rather than blame our reasonings on others."

He looks thoughtful.

"I have been thinking about it... perhaps he wishes to know why those of us that did, answered the call for the Duke, and those that did not, why did you join our merry band? I suspect he wants the answer to be more personal..."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday August 7th, 2020 6:03:47 AM
Grindar turns to Sol, as the Wizard speaks, and says, "What you say brother is probably true, but when the guy shows up, asks the question, and then disappears without waiting for an answer, how are we supposed to give him what he asks, and why does he bother asking, if he won't wait around for the answer? It's all more than a bit confusing."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Friday August 7th, 2020 9:16:13 PM
Worse than useless...oh well. She's still keepin' Akuno from snacking on it and making herself sick.

"I wouldn't worry none about that Power sneaking past. If a Power of the Sargrass decides it's gonna pop into our camp, probably ain't much we can do about it."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday August 7th, 2020 10:28:30 PM

Akuno isn't sure what the Walker Sar is. She's still fuzzy on the religious aspects of the Sargrass, but knows that the rumor is they have something to do with her kinds creation.

Regarding the fish, Akuno is more than happy to beg from Lil, letting the woman be a gatekeeper of sorts. "I mean, if I just nuzzle the fish most of the salt comes off, right?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=21 ;
Saturday August 8th, 2020 1:48:31 PM
Thorondir spends time as an eagle flying above the group looking for anyone or anything unusual. He asks Aewen to do the same (using speak with animals), and to notify him if she sees anything.
Perception 21

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=19 ;
Sunday August 9th, 2020 3:06:37 PM
survival 19. "Woo hoo, a chuckker prairie chicken. The key is to wrangle its neck in one bite like this." Bigby shakes the chicken around to model the method of kill.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Sunday August 9th, 2020 3:28:40 PM
"The neck shake works well, but if you come down fast on the neck you can break it and kill the animal much quicker. Of course, if you miss then it gets a bit complicated. Thorondir shares with Bigby. "Every species has their own strengths in hunting, of course you and Wolfgang can take down much larger prey than Aewen or I can."

"Speaking of strengths, I think I will take my watch tonight as an owl. I will be able to hear very well and fly silently around our camp. If I spot something, I think I will land on Bigby and get his attention. That way I can stay in owl form if needed."

DM Shane.
Sunday August 9th, 2020 3:40:49 PM
OOC: shoot guys I'm sorry I tried to refresh the page and I guess it reposted my last post.

"Sol" Chooses introspective and philosophical thinking mode, perhaps the Sar is much wiser than he first appears.

Grindar chooses the concrete thinking mode and finds fault with the Sar being impolite.

'Lil Chooses to concentrate on the issue of camp security

Akuno is not picky and kind of likes having someone else carry the food. she wonders about her heritage, and what the Sar have to do with it.

Thorondar enforces the true meaning of the term "Overwatch"

After a quick breakfast of Chorely leaves and cold Prairie chicken you resume travel. today is just as hot, dirty and slow as yesterday.

The brothers tell more stores of the Manfri as you walk.
The folk are generally honest, gregarious, and hardworking. it's a cultural taboo to not offer hospitality to travelers.
A belch after a meal is a compliment to the cook.
t's a grave offense to not accept a gift.
A good joke is viewed with High honor. and even if someone gets hurt, if it makes folk laugh it's is often forgiven, though the family may request recompense for the injury.

Mark: I've always liked how they did their laws. it's not about punishing the guilty it's about making the injured party whole. so if you were to kill the head of the family, you might be required to feed that family for the rest of their lives. generally, for lesser crimes, it's a matter of figuring recompense then adding 2 parts in 10 to it and calling it over. of course, the victim is part of the process. it's strange, there is very little crime in Manfri villages.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday August 10th, 2020 6:11:44 AM
Grindar continues to listen to the brothers talk about the Manfri, he chuckles to himself at the mention of belching at the dinner table. His mom would have his hide if he ever did such a thing, back home!

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Monday August 10th, 2020 12:57:23 PM
"It's your fish, and I ain't your ma," is 'Lil's reply to Akuno. "You ask for fish, I'll give ya all you want, but I'm tellin' you this stuff ain't regular table salt. Eatin' any of it ain't good for you. Eatin' too much of it and walking through a desert all day is gonna shut your kidneys down. Not sure my magic's gonna be helpful with that."

She thinks about that last point a bit. Maybe the salt's bad enough to be considered poison?

"At the very least, you'd need to drink a ton of water. I can make as much as we need, but our guides have been real clear that it can be dangerous out here." She leaves out the part about Akuno urinating a trail right to them. Her highness would probably not take kindly to that...

'Lil ain't planning on taking point when they meet the Manfri. The Sentinels have a bunch'a well spoken druids; she figures they'd be better at talkin' to'em. Secretly, she hopes some critter up and decides to attack before they get there. She's bottled up a ton of anger recently and it needs to get out.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday August 10th, 2020 1:03:31 PM
Caelwyn's initial surprise fades when he recognizes the Walker-Sar. These beings seem to be able to go wherever they please. Hopefully the Walker doesn't mind their mission.

He takes in everything he can about Manfri culture - he wants to represent his companions well when the time comes to speak with the Manfri,

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday August 10th, 2020 3:36:30 PM
At one of their meals Bigby decides to test out the Manfri burping technique and burps real loud. He then looks at chef and smiles. diplomacy at its best. He then sighs and goes off to play with Wolfgang.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday August 10th, 2020 4:35:39 PM

Akuno ponders the laws. "They make sense to me. Nice and easy to learn."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday August 10th, 2020 7:42:37 PM
Thorondir winces when Bigby belches and suggests it is diplomacy. "I'm sure elves don't have the capacity to belch like that. Our constitution is a bit more refined. I will do my best to accept gifts, unless they offer me a wife."

A Needed Diversion to the Manfri

DM Shane. d20=17 ;
Monday August 10th, 2020 11:18:05 PM
Grindar continues to listen to the brothers speak.

'Lil' lectures Akuno on the dangers of eating salted fish without ample water. and also on the dangers of exposing water in this grassland. The brothers back her up on this.
it's not all bad though. so far you have had fresh meat in the form of chicken,.

Caelwyntakes the Walker Sar in stride,

Bigbybelches on purpose. get an unmodified 17 for his belch. You did not scare off all the wildlife in the area. but you did startle a flock of birds from a nearby bunch of grass.

Akuno ponders the simplicity of the Manfri laws. Joseph correct her on it No missus, thems not the laws, thems the social mores fo the manfri. and those are only the ones we've been able to suss out from our interactions with them. there's been times when a whole tribe just our right ignored us and for the life of us we could not figure out what we did wrong. .

The brother chuckle at Thorondars discomfort about the belch. to be fair it was a pretty good "straight man" line for a joke.

Thorondarroll a perception check for me. DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {You seem some large movement up ahead of the party about 400 yards away.. party seems to be moving towards it. }

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 3:17:59 AM
Sol simply remains listening and introspective. Why am I here? I mean... I came on this excursion to learn more about magic and become more skilled in it... but is that the real reason I am here... or are we here because some entity wants us here? That thought is a little unsettling.

He simply thinks to himself, and makes notes on it, theories and such, while also documenting what the guides tell them about the Manfri.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 6:51:03 AM
Grindar chuckles at Bigby's gaseous release, "Brother if you tried that it my mothers table she would have flayed you alive, though if it is truly what the Manfri wish to hear, then you will make the cook blush with such a complement!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=12 ;
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 9:41:42 AM
All of this talk about crude habits has Thorondir a bit flustered. He moves along, trying to keep a watch out for the party.
Perception 12

[OOC] Not sure of the time of day, if in the morning he is flying as an eagle. The afternoon he walks with the party.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 1:23:56 PM
'Lil ain't one to burp. She's a city girl, and always aware'a the fact that she represents Domi all the hours of the day. She figures it's especially important here down South where lots of folk don't worship gods at all. She'll try though, for the good of the mission and all that.

She wonders briefly if they'll give her a wife too. That would be somethin'.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 2:18:18 PM
Bigby looks over to Grindar and laughs a little then looks seriously. "flayed alive? That's a very serious mother to never cross. Is that how you lost your fur Grindar? Did you mother skin your fur? Or do half orcs not have fur?" it would be strange indeed to lose ones fur. Remember to never cross Grindars mother.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 10:47:13 PM

Akuno ponders Bigby's new question, which begged another one. A little flustered, she swallows her inherent unease of Bigby and points a finger his direction from the back of her floating disk.

"Bigby! How old are you? Also, when did you get your fur?" She frowns. "I mean, not that I WANT fur, because I think that would mean lots of sweating, and a lady certainly does not sweat. But I only have a little extra fur by my ears and on my tail. Your practically covered in it!"

There was a certain amount of fluster and uncertainty that came from being part of a race of people who didn't have a long and settled history, like that of a human or elf. Her tail flicks twice, clearly agitated by some thought or another.

DM Shane.
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 11:43:32 PM
Sol ponders deep philosophical and existential questions to keep his mind off the hardships of the Sargrass.

Grindar. lets it be known that he is the product of a strict strict upbringing. but also that he is flexible enough to deal with other cultures. truely a cosmopolitan Half orc for the times.

Thorondar (you would have noticed this while flying.) all this talk of burping has offended his delicate sensibilities.

"Lil" is willing to do anything to complete the mission, but is unsure if a wife would be a good thing or not.

Bigby. shows his lack of familiarity with the world, but shows his wisdom by acknowledging the power of Grindars Mother.

Akuno tries to talk down to Bigby, but kind of sticks her foot in her mouth

I am going to have to have a perception check from everyone this next round.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=20 ;
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 11:57:15 PM
Caelwyn is lost in thought as they walk, feeling like their missions' success may hang on his words with the Manfri. And he knows very little about their customs. Hopefully he can avoid making any serious mistakes. He keep an eye out as he walks.

Perception 20 (with +2 bonus)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=13 ;
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 2:38:57 AM
((Perception 13))

Sol continues pondering, almost entirely distracting himself from the uncomfortable walking and stifling heat. He is sweating somewhat, but doesn't appear to be paying all that much attention to it, as he is still lost deep in thought, every now and again scribbling in his book.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=30 ; d20+8=14 ;
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 6:52:28 AM
Perception 30 (Grindar)
Perception 14 (Llew)

Grindar lets out a hearty laugh at Bigby's confusion, "No brother, it was but a figure of speech,. Growing up, my mother taught me the manners of the noble races, and would strictly enforce them as rules of the house. She would never truly flay someone alive for burping at the dinner table, though the look she would give often made it feel like being flayed alive. You may not be familiar with it, but mothers have that look they can give that let's you know you messed up, and it scared the crap out of you, especially when she says, "Wait tell your father gets home!" If you think I'm big and strong, you should see my father, I'm pretty sure he could bench press a horse! Oh and half-orcs don't have fur."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=12 ;
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 9:33:04 AM
Thorondir and Aewen fly in concentric circles above the group as they work their way through the Sargrass.
Perception 12

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+8=20 ;
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 10:29:45 AM
Perception: 20

How hard must it be to jump into the world without any kinda real culture or even understanding of how your own body's supposed to develop? 'Lil's keepin' an eye out, but she's kinda lost in thought.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=29 ;
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 1:18:49 PM
perception: 29.

Bigby listens to Grindar talk about his family. Family...now that's a word that was funny to Bigby. He never knew a family to be his. Bigby wondered what it would it must be like to have a mother and a father. Would he have liked them, or would he have not liked them? Did Bigby even feel sad about it? He decided to shake it off. Thinking about it wouldn't change anything. And being in a sour mood didn't feel practical right now. Would it ever be practical to be in a sour mood. Ah he was getting distracted in his thoughts again.

Bigby continued to listen and attempted a chuckle at what he thought maybe was supposed to be funny in the story. "Good one Grindar. Ok good to know. No fur. Gotcha." No fur????? How could...Bigby would have to wrap his mind around that later. But for now keep smiling Bigby told himself

Bigby hears Akuna and responds, " I don't know how old I am. Do you know Wolfgang?" After not getting a response from Wolfgang, he again addresses Akuna, "Oh man, fur is great. Let's see...keeping warm, keeping safe, keeping hidden, and just having something fun to run my paws through. I like that last one especially." Bigby smiles at Akuna having felt he successfully convinced her of the benefits of fur. To Bigby it was a no brainer. The world would be a better place with more fur Bigby thought.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 10:48:39 PM

Akuno just shakes her head. "I hope I don't get fur all over, not that it looks bad on you, I just hate being hot." She suddenly blushes. "N-n-not that I'm calling you a handsome person in particular. I mean, you aren't bad, but I mean. I-I mean.. " She suddenly takes a intense interest in whatever her invisible Unseen Servants are doing. "Stupid mutt-man.", she mumbles. She tosses herself back on her floating disk and watches the sky crawl by.

"Liiiiiiil. Caeeeeeelwyn. Are we there yet?" She suddenly props herself up on an elbow. "Ney ney! Caelwyn, do you want me to help you talk to the Manfri? I think we might know enough about them for me to help now. I could think of some good jokes? The only restriction is we don't want to -really- hurt someone, right? That's how their jokes work?"

DM Shane. d20+15=20 ; d20+15=34 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+2=8 ;
Thursday August 13th, 2020 12:11:00 AM
for everyone who got a 20 or better on Perception Highlight to display spoiler: { You don't know what it is. Did the constant cacophony of insects and wildlife suddenly quiet a bit? was their a barely perceived smell in the air? or perhaps you heard a twig snap beneath somethings tread. You don't know, but suddenly you are on high alert, something is coming, something bad. }.

"Sol" is lost within his thoughts and wanders on with the group oblivious.

Grindar with a laugh explains his figure of speech to Bigby, but his laugh dies in his throat and his face grows serious.

Caelwyn see the spoiler above.

Thorondar and Aewen float above the party searching for danger.

'Lil' see the spoiler above.

Bigby engages in friendly banter with his team mates, and makes some good points about the utility of fur. The smile gets fixed and his eyes begin to scan for...something.

Akunois as clueless as always.

Both Mark and Joseph who have been pathfinding and breaking trail towards the Manfi village stop and begin to slowly back towards the group. Spears raised, eyes scanning, and whispering to each other.

for everyone who didn't roll or who rolled below 20 you are unprepared for what comes next and do not get to act next round.

From in front of the two scouts/diplomats a large beast bursts out of the grass. it stands taller than a man at the shoulder has a long sinuous neck and moves fast. it bounds out and lets forth a scream that makes your teeth rattle. (everyone but Thorondar and Akuno make a will save vs DC 12 or be stunned for 1d4 rounds.). the noise is so great that Mark falls to the ground clutching his head.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+7=21 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+10=27 ; d8+7=10 ;
Thursday August 13th, 2020 7:01:29 AM
Grindar's will save: 21
Llew's will save: 16

Grindar lets out a roar of his own, at he rushes towards the beast (knowledge nature check to identify the beast 18) he brings Bwyell down in a mighty two handed swing hitting AC 27 for 10 damage. Llew can't act this round due to too low of a perception check

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+6=8 ; d4=3 ;
Thursday August 13th, 2020 12:58:08 PM
Caelwyn is on alert for whatever new danger might appear, but is completely surprised by the beast's scream. His head feels like it's about to split in two and he drops to one knee, trying not to black out.

(Caelwyn is stunned for three rounds)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+8=22 ; d20+6=10 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+6=23 ; d8+3=9 ; d8+3=5 ; d20+6=23 ; d8+3=10 ;
Thursday August 13th, 2020 1:51:04 PM
'Lil's ears perk up when Akuno asks if they're there yet. "Who said that? Sounded kinda like Akuno, but royalty isn't supposed to whine about stuff..." She's half smiling, congratulating herself on a good dig, when this thing pounces. She easily shrugs off the thing's scream (will save 22).

She heard the rustlin' and ain't surprised by this thing, but she's still kinda shocked seein' how it's so darn creepy. "Mark, these things travel in packs or what?" When she gets no reply, she looks to see the dude on the ground. She groans. "Joseph, same question." She listens for the answer, but don't wait on it. She takes her place behind Grindar and stabs past him with Maya. Probably shoulda waited, though...

Hit AC 10 - Miss

Attacks of Opportunity:

Hit 18 for 9 damage
Hit 23 for 5 damage
Hit 23 for 10 damage

Note to DM Shane: 'Lil has the combat reflexes feat and a 10' reach. I roll a bunch of attacks of opportunity each post just in case they get used. If they don't, I use them as attack rolls the following turn.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=13 ; d20+9=13 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+12=31 ;
Thursday August 13th, 2020 3:22:27 PM
will save 13.

Bigby and Wolfgang charge at one of those things. claw attack 13, wolfgangs bite 7. Depending on the distance if they can will charge past them with ride by attack feat. Also will use mounted combat to dodge an attack that may come at them: 31 for the mounted combat roll. Bigby thinks, well that didn't go as planned.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=16 ; d20+5=19 ;
Thursday August 13th, 2020 4:01:18 PM
Upon hearing the loud scream below them, Thorondir and Aewen circle and gain altitude. They are looking for additional danger. "Let me know if you see more danger" Thorondir says to Aewen in the eagle language.
--Speak with Animals--
Perception Thorondir 16
Perception Aewen 19

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=5 ;
Thursday August 13th, 2020 4:15:18 PM

Akuno jumps up, started at the sudden appearance of a .. a .. honest to goodness monster! (Akuno's perception score is -1. She absolutely missed it!)

DM Shane. d20+8=10 ; d20+3=5 ; d20+12=15 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+7=9 ;
Thursday August 13th, 2020 10:19:07 PM
Grindar rushes in and whallops the beat for 10 points of damage. (we also now know that it's AC is no more than 37 and it has more than 10 hp. I will track this at the bottom of the page for all monsters during combat. ) oh and it's a Highlight to display spoiler: {Rapky, large dangerous predator of the Sargrass plains. some times the are solitary sometimes they run in packs. }.

Caelwyn's head rings from the force of the sonic attack!

Lil stacks up behind Grindarand thrusts with her spear! but the beast is too fast and it's skin too tough for her attack to find success (we know now that it's AC is more than 10)

Bigby rides up and harrasses the thing but his attacks do no damage. (AC is greater than 13 ).

Joseph steps over his prostrate brother and Thrusts at the thing with his spear as well. while doing so he speaks in a loud clear voice to the rest of the party. It's a Rapky, look to the sides they favor flaking attacks if there is more than one! worried about protecting his brother both of his attacks miss the beast.

Part of the party move while the other part are either incapacitated or surprised by the attack (just so you know we do not use the initiative rules in this pathfinder game, but we do allow for a surprise round at times like these). The Rapky reacts to Grindars attack, but before he can attack him, Bigby's ride by distracts the monster and it goes after him. But Bigby is too fast and it's bite and claws find nothing but air.

Rapky AC between 13 and 37 10hp damage.

Map
find and post your sprites for the map to the map, if you don't have editing premissons email me. be sure and put your name below your sprite.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+6=20 ; d20+3=12 ;
Friday August 14th, 2020 2:55:21 AM
Sol's head also rings from the sonic attack, but shakes it off in the next round.

Sol simply ensures he's not adjacent to any of the Rapky, and if possible positions either Lil, Caelwyn or Grindar between him and the Rapky.

He will then fire a Ray of Frost at the nearest one, however his shot goes wide.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+8=26 ; d20+8=19 ; d8+5=11 ; d8+5=7 ; d20+2=9 ;
Friday August 14th, 2020 6:51:55 AM
OOC... I can't access the map

Grindar goes presses his attack going for a full round attack, as Llew bounds to his side and attempts to bit the beast.

Primary hand hits AC 26 for 11 damage

Off hand hits AC 19 for 7 damage

Llew's bite misses

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+7=9 ;
Friday August 14th, 2020 11:20:52 AM
*I was able to edit the map. I put 'Lil on there, and Grindar since I'm purposly standing behind him. Jeremy, if the position I put you wasn't appropriate, go ahead and move both of us.

'Lil looks up, seein' what she sure hopes is Thorondir and his bird. "Hope they spot any more before they jump on us," she remarks to no one in particular. Hearin' Joseph say they hunt in packs, she takes a step back and grabs Ramona on her back. "Gonna need some extra help here, girl," she says before whipping her hand forward and throwing a translucent copy of her hammer at the rapke.

Misc: 5' step back
Standard: Cast Spiritual Weapon and sick it on the rapke. Hits AC 9 - miss

Attacks of Opportunity rolled forward from last round:

Hit 18 for 9 damage
Hit 23 for 5 damage
Hit 23 for 10 damage

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday August 14th, 2020 12:55:03 PM

"Servant! Untie yourself and retrieve a blue scroll!" The order was clear and precise, and she had tied colored bands around her scrolls to help her servants out since they weren't the smartest of creatures. Speaking of which, what should she do? She was warned about fire elementals, and water elementals might draw more creatures!

In a panic, she closes her eyes and begins to summon, well, something. She didn't really have a good grip on this stuff yet.

Servant 1: MA - Untie rope connecting it to floating disk. MA - Retrieve blue banded scroll from Akuno's magical bag.

Akuno: F. Round A- Begin summoning, via Summon Monster II.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=25 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+4=11 ; d20+11=21 ;
Friday August 14th, 2020 2:26:01 PM
ooc: I'm a Luddite and struggling with map. I'll move up and attack one of them.

A feral feeling overcomes Bigby, which makes him feel the need to howl as he and Wolfgang move towards the creature again to attack. Claw att: 25, 4dmg. Wolfgang bite 11.

mounted combat dodge for possible attack against them: 21.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+5=24 ;
Friday August 14th, 2020 4:07:43 PM
OOC: [I don't know how to edit the map, every time I try I delete everyone. Thorondir is 20 feet east and 60 feet in the air. Aewen is above the Rapke and 80 feet high]

"Aewen, keep searching for more of these and let me know if you see more"
Thorondir casts Hold Animal on the Rapke

Perception Aewen 24

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday August 14th, 2020 5:02:48 PM
(ooc. I find it works better to make a google image than a google sheet. You can set and adjust layers that way.)

DM Shane. d20+8=14 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=24 ; 2d8+8=12; d4+4=5 ; d20+4=10
Friday August 14th, 2020 8:42:29 PM
Dm note: you should all have editing rights to the document now. my apologies for not including them in the hyperlink.

Sol stays behind the brawlers and attempts to kite the creature. however, nerves get the better of him and his shot fails to land. (you do know about Total defense rules correct? )

Grindar lays into the big Rapky, his first blow lands clean but the second bounces off the creature's thick hide. (narrowing down on the AC it's now 26 or lower. )

Joseph step over his brother and faces the beast, and thrusts at it with his speak, but neither blow penetrates its hide.

Lil brings some magic into the fray but fails to connect with her foe.

Akuno although panicked, issues commands and moves with a purpose, it's in times like these that we see a person's true colors come to the fore. (I am very impressed with the color code for the unseen servant...brilliant! Also, Ken, I would be grateful if you would work your magic with the map, your kung fu is superior to mine in the map-making dept. )

Bigby(Dm: did you get the editing link I sent to your email? ) Howels as he turns and attacks the beast. He connects! (we've brought ourselves closer to the AC its 25 or lower now.

Thorondar casts Hold monster on the beast.
Rapky
AC 19 to 25 25 damage

The Rapky really did not like what Grindar did to him and ignores all the other gnats around him to give Grindar some special attention. it bites into his arm and one of its flailing claws catches him in the shoulder. bite 12 shoulder 5 total 17 points + poison. (make a DC 12 fort save or take 2d8 DEX damage, you must make another save in 10 rounds or take another 2d8 DEX damage. ). just about the time its attacks land Thorondar's spell lands and it freezes in place, then falls over, overbalanced on one foot.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday August 14th, 2020 11:20:28 PM
Caelwyn stabilizes slightly, but still cannot muster the strength to rise.

(Stunned for two more turns)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=18 ; d20+5=11 ;
Saturday August 15th, 2020 1:33:53 PM
Thorondir lets out an eagle scream as his spell does it work and the beast falls. Turning to Aewen he says in eagle : "Keep looking for danger my friend."

Perception Thorondir 18
Perception Aewen 11

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+5=22 ; 2d8+14=27 ;
Saturday August 15th, 2020 5:42:01 PM
Fort save 22 (save)

Grindar raises Bwyell over his head in an attempt to deliver a coup de grace, delivering 27 damage, with a two-handed swing, requiring a DC 37 fort save or it dies.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 11/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d8+7=15 ;
Saturday August 15th, 2020 5:49:20 PM
I forgot that the Orc Double Ax has a times 3 crit multiplier so it actually does 42 damage and requires a DC 52 fort save or die.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Sunday August 16th, 2020 12:26:31 PM
OOC: Sorry new to pathfinder and have researched Perception for Thorondir and his eagle Aewen. I fixed my CS, perception checks for this round should be:
Perception Thorondir 22
Perception Aewen 16

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+3=22 ; d3=2 ;
Sunday August 16th, 2020 12:52:41 PM
Sol will again fire a ray of Frost, also keeping an eye out for anything else coming to flank them.

To hit - 22
Damage - 2

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday August 16th, 2020 9:25:32 PM
Caelwyn remains stunned.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Monday August 17th, 2020 12:45:00 PM
'Lil keeps an eye out, unsure there ain't more'a these varmints around. Her hammer floats happily beside her, also wanting to do its job and smash something. She punches Grindar in the arm. "That's for beatin' me to it," she says with a smile.

Attacks of Opportunity rolled forward from last round:

Hit 18 for 9 damage
Hit 23 for 5 damage
Hit 23 for 10 damage

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday August 17th, 2020 3:08:36 PM

Akuno finishes summoning, and a rather runty looking earth elemental arrives on the scene. She takes the blue banded scroll from her servant, then sighs.

"Is that it?" Just to be safe, gives as clear of instructions to the elemental as she can. "Punch anything that looks mean and ugly!" When the elemental starts lumbering towards Grindar, she corrects herself and points at a spot on the ground. "Nevermind! Just sit there unless I tell you to do something else!"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+9=28 ; d20+6=18 ; d20=8 ; d2+3=4 ; d6+1=4 ;
Monday August 17th, 2020 3:35:35 PM
assuming the creature next to bigby is dead, bigby and wolfgang charge whatever creature is left. claw att:28, 4 dmg, Wolfgangs bite att: 18, dmg: 4, trip attack 8+4=12. If there are no creatures to kill, Bigby and Wolfgang charge around their enemies like bloodthirsty wolves howling and such.

DM Shane. d20+6=20 ;
Monday August 17th, 2020 10:53:36 PM
Grindar's Urgrosh rises and falls with a grim finality separating the Rapkys cat/snake head from its long sinuous neck.

Silence descends upon the group as Rapkys are known to hunt in packs, and everyone is either waiting for the other shoe to drop or busy trying to get over the effects of the sonic attack. (I'm going to rule that spell casters can hold the spell that they would have cast this round if Grindar had not obviously coup de graced the beast.

Except for Bigby who, full of blood lust, charges around the flattened grass howling

and Akuno who is having communication problems with her earth elemental.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday August 17th, 2020 11:11:43 PM
Caelwyn shakes his head, trying to clear away the aftereffects of the rapke's vicious screech. He can't quite get up yet.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 3:37:44 AM
Sol will hold his Ray of Frost for a round, to see if anything else pokes it's ugly head out.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 11/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=29 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 6:27:19 AM
Grindar wipes the blood off of Bwyell, as he continues to scan for any more. perception 29

He grunts a bit, and his face grimaces as Lil punches him in the shoulder, the same one the rapky wounded. "Is everyone else OK?" He asks. He is too proud to ask for healing for himself, though he's pretty sure his grunt of discomfort would alert Lil that something was wrong.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 2d8+4=18 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 8:44:02 AM
I mean...obviously 'Lil didn't punch him in a wounded shoulder. She ain't cruel or nothin'...

He is pretty beat up though, ain't he? She didn't notice him being that hurt in such a short time. "That's a lotta blood. Too much for just channelin' energy. Here, let's try this." She burns her Bulls Strength spell for a CMW, healing 18 HP of damage. Should be just enough to get Grindar back to full strength.

"There ya go," she says, patting him gently on his newly healed shoulder.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=12 ; d20+10=17 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 1:55:39 PM
Thorondir and Aewen continue to fly and look for more creatures moving towards the party. The make slow circles around the party.
Perception Thorondir 12
Perception Aewen 17

Active spell: speak with animals

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 9:05:53 PM
Caelwyn finally gets to his feet, shaking his head. "By Domi...I am sorry my friends, I was worse than useless in that fight."

DM Shane. 2d8=12 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 10:52:00 PM
Caelwyn's head finally quits ringing and his equilibrium comes back. Chagrined he apologizes for his lack of showing.

Sol scanned the area, a fell spell of cold hell, waiting at his fingertips.

Grindar understands that when you do something heroic and competent, you play it off. but his arm and shoulder sure do hurt, Luckily his companions read him well and attend to his needs without ruining his vibe. (I have a rule that healing spells create a sensory effect in the recipient. could be color flashing or goosebumps, ringing in the ears, smells, or tastes. the choice is up to the player, but it makes for interesting color text, use it if you wish. )

Lil lays some healing on her companion,

Thorondarcontinue to circle the area looking for signs of attack. (You see nothing. )

Mark begins to come around as well. he speaks to Caelwyn You and me both my friend, I think that thing hit me square in the face with that screech. i don't know if it was the sound of its bad breath that put me down.

Joseph Aye, Mom always told you not to lead with your head. but you'd never listen. [/b]

a few minutes pass (Grindar needs to make another DC 12 Fort save or take 2d8 points of DEX damage. 12 points in this case. side note if your Dex is brought down to 0 you are immobile and must b carried, you can neither attack nor defend yourself. )

Josephlooks over the body of the Rapky bull, he then addresses the party.

This looks like a freshly turned out bull, he probably hasn't had time to find a bachelor pack yet, so chances are he is alone. Still, he will attract others now that his blood is on the grass, we had best get far away from here.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 3:37:05 AM
"We should get moving, Grindar, are you okay? Can you move?"

Sol is filled with concern for his friend, still keeping the spell at the ready just in case.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 11/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+9=28 ;
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 7:48:22 AM
Fort save 28 (pass)

Grindar feels Lil’s healing magic rush over his body like a rush of adrenaline. Fired up he says, “Thanks sister! Oh and I’m good Sol, thanks for asking! Joseph’s right though, we need to get going!”

OOC.. Since Grindar passed both saves I’m playing it as though he didn’t even know he was poisoned.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 12:30:18 PM
After hooting and hollering around, Bigby and Wolfgang calms down and takes in his surroundings. Bigby looks at Grindar and sniffs him. Something bad happened to him, but he looks ok now. He looks up to Grindar and nods. "good job Grindar. Shake it off." The thought of leaving the meat behind make Bigby sad. The Sargrass truly is an unforgiving place. And at times like this, just no fun. "Oh well, live to hunt again," Bigby says out loud and follows the rest.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 2:18:49 PM
'Lil didn't even get to stab this thing once. She sighs a bit, then moves on. "Akuno, you wanna magic the blood off Grindar's weapon? Don't want more'a these things following it."

She kinda did, but it ain't worth riskin' someone else getting hurt just so she can get a few more fights in.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=26 ; d20+10=19 ;
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 3:15:49 PM
Thorondir flies down and lands on the Rapke. He looks around at his companions and moves his head back and forth, and shrugs his wings. He starts to screech at Bibgy and Grindar:

If you understand eagle Highlight to display spoiler: {"We don't see more of these, but we should have seen this one moving. Sorry you were caught off guard. We will continue to watch from above, hopefully we will spot the next one before he is on you. Remember, if I see danger I will fly high above it and give a loud scream."}

Thorondir launches himself back into the sky and he and Aewen continue to look for more creatures that might threaten the party. They make slow circles around the party.
Perception Thorondir 26
Perception Aewen 19

Active spell: speak with animals

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 4:51:57 PM

Akuno looks sadly at her earth elemental. It was kind of cute, in its own way, but she didn't get to see what it could do at all. Maybe though..maybe it could work as a mud mask? She had heard fancy ladies used them to keep fresh faces.

Akuno prods the elemental. She doesn't speak Terran, or any elemental language, but she tries anyways. "Hey, can you help me prevent wrinkles?"

--

Amberjack wasn't quite sure what to make of his tiny sized summoner. He had been in the middle of sessing out a deposit of tasty calcite, when all of a sudden he got pulled through to this world. Usually, that meant fighting, but this girl was asking about face masks and wrinkles!. He spoke common, but he wasn't about to tell this crazy catwoman that. Instead, he steps on a bug and pretends not to hear her. Amberjack hates bugs.

--

With a sigh, Akuno dismissed her elemental. "Maybe if I collect more badges he'll listen next time." Her melancholy is interrupted with a simple request. She nods, and wiggles her fingers and cleans the bloody bits from Grindars axe.

DM Shane.
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 7:35:09 PM
Sol is ready to move or fight.

Grindar get healed and passes his saves, your blood probably washed the toxin from the wound before it could take effect.

Bigby is a bit disappointed to be leaving meat behind, but he understands the need, even if he does not understand magical healing.

Lil helps to get the stank off Grindar for the jounry ahead, by asking Akuno
for a little prestidigitation action.

If anyone speaks Eagle they understand Thorondir, if not they hear "Whedle, whedle, Twill Skree chrip chirp Whistle. Thorondir resumes his scouting for trouble. Highlight to display spoiler: { This time you do see movement in the grass at a tangent to your position you see several large shapes shaking the grass as the home in on the dead Rapky, The are about 800 meters away, if you get a move on you should not even see them}.

Akuno experiences the sorry of the monster summoner, all dressed up and no where to go, and dang it if the bloody things don't have a mind of their own.

it's about an hour till noon. Thorondir's wild shape usually end by noon. so you have a bit before he has to come down.

The party moves off in silence and with a bit of urgency, trying to get as much distance between themselves and the monster lure they left behind..

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=5 ;
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 9:37:10 PM
Caelwyn takes rear guard again, hoping to hold up better in whatever fight comes next. With his shield and trident at the ready, he tries to hasten the party along while keeping his ears open for any potential pursuit. As long as they don't have any blood or water on their bodies, they should be fine - predators should go after the fallen rapke instead.

Unfortunately, his ears are still ringing slightly and he is not particularly observant at the moment.

Perception 5

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=25 ; d20+10=25 ;
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 11:32:50 PM
Thorondir flies down and nudges Grindar along. He looks back towards the dead rapke and shakes his head, then flies quickly in the direction the group is going. He lands on the ground and uses one wing in a sweeping motion towards the direction of travel. He then leaps into the air and again flies quickly forward. He does this all quietly, then he gain altitude and joins Aewen looking carefully around.

Perception Thorondir 25
Perception Aewen 25

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday August 20th, 2020 3:38:31 AM
Sol stays in the middle of the group, unwinding his spell so it doesn't hit anyone. He takes a deep breath as they head off. He really wasn't built for long carrying tasks...

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 11/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=13 ; d20+8=12 ;
Thursday August 20th, 2020 7:00:04 AM
When Bigby applauds him for "shaking it off" Grindar is blank faced, as he has no idea what his friend is talking about. As Thorondir speaks in eagle, Grindar quickly casts speak with animals, and then answers, "No worries brother, we are fine down here, and that hold monster spell, saved our backsides!" He does his best to keep an eye out for trouble.

Grindar's perception 13
Llew's perception 12

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday August 20th, 2020 9:42:29 AM
Since Grindar used Speak with Animals then he also heard Thorondir tell him on his quick return:
"They are coming for the body, hurry away from it quickly and quietly."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Thursday August 20th, 2020 11:01:25 AM
There ain't nothing quiet about 'Lil, but she don't make no more noise than she has to while movin' away from that dead critter.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday August 20th, 2020 12:18:33 PM
Bigby casts speak animal to hear from the eagle and nods his head in understanding. Bigby also agrees in nodding his head to what Grindar says. Say something about Bigby...he's one with few words. Bigby moves to his place in line.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday August 20th, 2020 11:14:09 PM
Caelwyn hears what Thorondir has said, and moves as quickly and quietly as possible.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday August 21st, 2020 2:46:03 PM

Akuno keeps her mage armor scroll in hand, and re-mounts her unseen servant palanquin. Then she adjusts her Rose's temperature control, and shivers a little. Nice and cool, just like she liked it. Adventuring was hard, but it didn't need to be pure suffering.

DM Shane.
Friday August 21st, 2020 6:14:07 PM
Caelwyn Head still spinning from the attack he pushes on.
Thorondir is awful expressive in bird form, and lets it be known that the party needs to hurry.
Solstores his magic and soldiers on.
Grindar fails to understand Bigby's words of encouragement. His speak with animals spell lets him know that there are more rapky inbound about 800 yards away.
Lil you get the feeling that of the two stealth and speed the speed portion is what is more apropos at this time.
Bigby casts speak with animals and now know what is coming for them if they don't shag.

Akunogets comfortable for the long trip ahead. .

Joseph and Mark push you hard for the next 6 hours, even Thorondir who got to fly for the first half of the day is pooped by the time you make camp for the night.

gonna need a watch order or are you going to trust to the winds of fate that you won't have an encounter during the night.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday August 21st, 2020 11:36:32 PM
Caelwyn will gladly take the hours before dawn as his watch, or whatever else is needed. Tired or not, they cannot risk being taken by surprise, especially in such hostile country as the Sargrass has proved to be.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Saturday August 22nd, 2020 3:07:38 AM
As usual, Sol can take either one the first or the last watch, as long as he gets 8 hours rest to recharge any spells. Though he's not used any today, so could take watch at any time.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Saturday August 22nd, 2020 2:16:04 PM
Bigby takes midnight shift. He and Wolfgang lick each other clean while the watch for whatever danger may lurk in the grass.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+9=13 ; d20+10=11 ;
Saturday August 22nd, 2020 4:25:24 PM
Thorondir will take the watch right after Bigby.

Responding to Grindar: "Well, I'm glad the spell took hold of the creature. It doesn't always seem to work, sometimes they can shake off the effects. Though it looks like you might have had it about killed without me. Anyway, I see you take this bleeding for the group seriously. You have noticed though haven't you, nobody else seems to take it quite as seriously? Myself, I haven't even had a scratch yet. Though I'm sure my time will come. It is good to see Lil can heal so well, that was amazing."

Rolls for watch
Perception Thorondir 13
Perception Aewen 11

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday August 23rd, 2020 10:17:51 PM
Caelwyn prepares to rest until it's his turn to watch.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday August 24th, 2020 6:37:07 AM
Grindar and LLew will fill whatever watch is needed, as they aren't fussy.

To Thorondir, "Believe me brother, I don't bleed by choice, it's just an occupational hazard. Though I would rather it be my blood that is spilled, then the blood of my pack mates!"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Monday August 24th, 2020 11:08:15 AM
'Lil can't help but overhear Grindar and Thorondir chattin'. Her fighting style had kinda morphed into her standing behind Grindar and stabbin' past him with Maya, then healing Grindar when he needed it.

Was that brave? She was still there in the front durin' fights, but Thorondir's right: she ain't been hurt in some time. Part of her stomach don't feel right about all of it, but she can't argue that she ain't a lot more successful doing that than she was swinging Ramona around. Her hammer was just too heavy.

She knows she's still willing to stand up front, and knows that if anything happened to Grindar she'd do everything in her power to protect him. She reminds herself that she chose to be a cleric, not a paladin, and that meant she served and protected her team. She takes a breathe and makes peace with all this, then moves on.

***

'Lil can't see in the dark, so volunteers for first or last watch. She don't much care which, long as there's some light to see by. Growing up in a town with continual flame lights every 20 feet or so, she ain't accustomed to being in total dark yet.

DM Shane: don't fret a lot about standing in ranks behind Grindar. you are doubling your firepower and if you haven't thought of it, you can also aid another from that position to help Grindar out. increased AC increased hit probability. it's the perfect position to turn aid another into an OP rule.

DM Shane. d100=93 ;
Monday August 24th, 2020 6:33:51 PM
The night passes without a hitch. most sleep well the sleep of the tired. except for those on the watch. Morning comes and the crew arises. Folk are in the midst of their morning absolution when Josephs shout makes everyone turn towards the campfire.

standing beside the fire is a 8ft tall Manfri with glowing eyes. Something tells you that this is the Weaver-Sar. the camp goes quiet as all eyes turn to this being. He seems to lock eyes with everyone as he speaks.

Who Are You?

he then disappears with a slight pop as air rushes in to fill the space he left.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday August 24th, 2020 6:54:22 PM

Akuno isn't sure what to think of teleporting giant manfri. Her ears pin back and her tail starts thrashing, but Akuno wouldn't be Akuno unless, well, she Akuno'd.

"I .. will be honest friends. I have no idea what to do with a giant smoldering, fireproof grass midget who can pop in and out of reality. Maybe we should work on a joke? Manfri like those, right?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday August 24th, 2020 11:17:53 PM
Caelwyn is barely surprised at this point. "Is this a rhetorical question, or would you really like an answer?" he asks into the air, as there is no one left to speak to.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 7:49:49 AM
“First the Walker-Sarr , and now the Weaver, will any of these guys give us a chance to answer there questions?”, Grindar sighs, “These guys aren’t much for conversation are they!”

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 11:00:06 AM
”What is the point of having a watch if these folk can keep showing up in the middle of our camp?”
Thorondir is obviously annoyed. He stands with Aewen on his shoulder, preening his friend.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 12:34:37 PM
Sol simply has a bright smile on his face, he's excited to have been face to face with one of the Powers again.

"Why are we all so frustrated with this? Do you not understand how lucky we are to meet these beings? And to have them show an interest in us? As I have mentioned before, I do not believe they want us to answer the questions to them, they simply want us to meditate and think on them. Understand our own drives and beliefs so we can be sure of what we do."

He seems in incredibly good spirits and is almost bouncing with energy and excitement.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 12:38:21 PM
Bigby puts his hand to his chest, "I am Bigby Wolf." Bigby being a little disappointed that his diplomacy effort was all for not. Perhaps they were all in some bigger philosophical plot or was this all a dream? Eh best not to think too deeply on these things.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 1:05:13 PM
'Lil sighs. This again.

"Dude, we ain't a complicated bunch. I'm guessin' you can hear and say everything we say in our land, so...what ya see is what you get."

If they can't see and hear everything, then they should stick around.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 3:45:16 PM
”What is the point of having a watch if these folk can keep showing up in the middle of our camp?”
Thorondir is obviously annoyed. He stands with Aewen on his shoulder, preening his friend.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 11:28:05 PM
Caelwyn chuckles at his comrade's responses, and shakes his head. They had best be moving out soon.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday August 26th, 2020 10:55:49 PM
Caelwyn wonders to himself when the Sarr figures will stick around long enough to have a real conversation. He wants to have an honest talk with the walker and weaver, since he sees the Warper Sarr as the most hostile to them and the one he trusts the least.

DM Shane.
Thursday August 27th, 2020 1:06:20 AM
OOC: sorry guys I had to bug out. Lake Charles is getting a Hurricane tonite and I left to texas on Tuesday. so I was unavailable.

Caelwyn[b] expresses his frustration at the Sar's method of communication.

[b]Akuno wonders about the Sar herself.

Grindar states the obvious.

Sol thinks about things in a different way, that perhaps make more sense

Bigby Takes things literally.

Lil does so as well, and shows a good bit of creative wisdom in her interpretation of the Sars power.

Thorondir wonders about keeping a watch if it can be infiltrated so easily by immortal powers and such.

Joseph and Mark both just shrug and continue to get ready to move,
JosephI think he's just asking about stuff in an existential way, what do you think, Mark?[/b]
Mark nods. aye, it's kind of stupid for an immortal power to ask base questions. I think it's a deeper thing that they are asking.

the camp gets cleaned up quickly, and you get on the trail in good time. about 2 hours after getting on trail, you come across a broad streach of ground where the grass has been mowed down to almost roots and dirt.
Joseph and Mark confer for a few minutes and come to a consensus. they call a halt at the edge and gather everyone around.

Mark
okay, this is an interesting find. it's a fresh track of a Great Ranthom herd. They are strange-looking beasts. the lower jaw is razor-sharp, and instead of having rear legs, it's got a great broad wheel. when they eat they leave the ground like this. this track is going north-south, we are running a track that is running southeast. we can take this trail and maybe shave a couple of days off the track to the village. it's a good find, but it has its dangers. Raiders like to travel behind the Ranthom, it's obvious why...easy travel. and so do everything else. so we'lll take the path, but we have to be really really careful or we'll get caught up in some stuff we don't want to be in. if you guys have any ideas to help us keep a good watch, it would be good to hash it all out now, before we go any further.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday August 27th, 2020 3:13:51 AM
Sol nods as they are told about the Great Ranthoms, and immediately starts writing in his journal about them, as they continue he asks questions about them, and tries his best to either get Joseph or Mark to draw them, or draw them himself from their description, constantly asking if it looks right.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=30 ;
Thursday August 27th, 2020 6:33:03 AM
Grindar says, "In the Sargrass, I am pretty good at spotting trouble before it spots us, perhaps I should take my usual spot at the head of the party." Perception 30

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Thursday August 27th, 2020 12:43:33 PM
"Wait, they gotta wheel instead of back legs? How'd nature pull that one off?" That's just about the strangest thing she's heard in this place, and she's heard plenty of strange.

'Lil had good eyes and could notice stuff, but she wasn't always sure what to look for out here in the wild. She can figure out the basics: be careful going around blind corners, keep the toughest dudes on the perimeter of the group, but mostly she relied on the party's druids.

"Plus, Thorondir and Aewen have eyes up there. They should spot anything out in the open on this path way before we do."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=21 ;
Thursday August 27th, 2020 3:29:59 PM
Bigby looks back at Wolfgangs hind legs to imagine a wheel there. Bigby chuckles and says outloud, "nah." Bigby trusts Grindar to take the lead but will help with keeping an eye out. perception: 21

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=21 ; d20+10=20 ;
Thursday August 27th, 2020 8:44:07 PM
"We will keep watch from above"" Thorondir says to Lil.

Thorondir wild shapes into an eagle and joins Aewen flying above the party.

Perception Thorondir 21
Perception Aewen 20

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=4 ;
Thursday August 27th, 2020 11:21:14 PM
Caelwyn is happy to take the final spot in the party as usual, watching for anyone who might be approaching from behind.

Perception 4

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday August 28th, 2020 1:41:48 PM

Akuno very much wants to see a wheel monster. "I know a spell that rings alarms, but it doesn't work while moving. I can set up a few of them and some unseen servants as watch when the time comes to camp."

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day ??, daybreak
Friday August 28th, 2020 10:20:00 PM
The group makes good time following the ranthom trail until nightfall. Joseph and Mark are divided about whether to camp in or off the trail when evening comes. On the one hand, whatever advantages the trail might give to predators it gives more to people -- who aren't as at home in the Sargrass as the creatures -- on the other hand, anything travelling the trail is sure to find them, while in the grass it might not. Ultimately, they decide that the group has enough folks with low light vision to call the trail better.

With watches set as before, the night passes somewhat restlessly. There are things moving on the trail, but they are all small and don't approach the party very closely.

In the morning. as the group is preparing to resume their trek, Smithira rises out of the ground in the midst of them. As she opens her mouth, it is a rapke who says in a deep, rich voice that you hear in your head more than your ears, "What do" the manfri continues "you want? a richly-clad man concludes. As the vision of the moth fades from before the party, a large mass remains.

If you were in the campaign from the beginning: Highlight to display spoiler: {You recognize the manfri as Mahyawu and the man as Duke Abelard Rowan.}

The mass is larger than a person. As the group watches, it starts to move. A rip starts to appear in the side, as if something is trying to get out.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+5=12 ; d20+12=30 ;
Saturday August 29th, 2020 3:27:50 AM
Sol looks puzzled and tries to figure out what it is. Seeing if any of his studies have ever indicated what this sort of thing could be and whether it's dangerous or not...

((Knowledge Nature - 12, Untrained))
((Knowledge Planes - 30, Trained))

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+5=23 ;
Saturday August 29th, 2020 12:14:40 PM

Akuno casts detect magic, then tries to consider the chrysalis. Is it something arcane?

Know Arcane: 23

As for what she wants, this question is tough. Does it want to know what she wants personally, or what the Sentinels are currently doing?

"Well, I want to find my family. The Sentinels just want to help people. And YOU seem to want to get out of that mass? Would you like help?" She doesn't have much in the way of claws, but she's willing to pull as best she can.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Saturday August 29th, 2020 7:15:58 PM
"I don't like this." Thorondir says.

"I'll be up there ready to cast entangle or something in case it is needed."

Thorondir wildshapes into an eagle and joins Aewen circling the moving mass of something, staying about 100 feet away from the object.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14 d20=16 ;
Sunday August 30th, 2020 4:55:56 PM
Familiar faces form Hook city swim in and out of focus until a gentle silver dragon claw gently plucks the dreamer and thrusts him towards the excruciating light and a rude awakening.

'Can't breathe... Gotta move...' Struggles. Arms flailing. Legs kicking.

A gash appears in the chrysalis and murky ichor drips quickly evaporating in to mist. As Akuno casts her magic and reaches out an arm tears through the membrane and grabs her hand (touch attack:16). Her question goes unheard but her warm support allows the upside-down-slime-figure to pull itself out unceremoniously, before releasing its grip and landing with a squelch and a moan.

Steam evaporates leaving the figure face down coughing and spluttering. Slowly it rolls over just in time for bits and pieces of kit falling from the cocoon to smash down on and around it. "Really?" (resigned) followed by another groan.
"By the grace of Maab who ran me over with a horse and cart?" he says in a voice that cracks as if unused for some time.

To those who knew Haemir before - he looks different. At first the slim elf's pale skin had simply darkened but now it is more like mottled weatherbeaten grey marble. His long blue hair - now white-grey is braided into locks that support a fair amount of Sargrass' dust. In fact he's probably unrecognizable but for the unmistakable bright sea-blue eyes and his fashion sense, which still consists of studded black leather and a pendant of feathers, beads and shells. He radiates a sailor, geek, professor vibe mixed with a haunting fey aura.

There is no sign of Fand (the blue parrot) but a familiar rusty black rapier with an engraved kraken-head hilt that looks like it's been underwater for years lays across his lap.

Squinting up at the sky he feels around searching for something. 'No way I can be dead... Everything hurts too much. Ugh bright light! Where are my goggles?' he thinks before remembering someone is nearby.

"Sorry. Please forgive my manners. Thank you ... Whoever you are! That must have taken some bravery on your part".

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday August 30th, 2020 9:39:50 PM
Caelwyn steps forward to see if Haemir is hurt, his eyes wide in surprise. "Haemir, is that you? Are you alright? How on earth did you come to be here?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday August 31st, 2020 6:37:01 AM
Grindar rushes forward to the newcomer and helps him to his feet. Upon seeing his eyes, and hearing his voice, he says, "Haemir, is that you?" Than turning to Sol he says, "Quick brother, use your magic to clean this slime from our friend!"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday August 31st, 2020 11:22:41 AM
Bigby wonders about the events going on. What does it all mean? The Duke and the Manfri. It all sounded like the title of some side adventure. Looking a little more closely at the mass and the person who appears out of it. "Haemir? Is that you? Or am I seeing things?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+9=18 ;
Monday August 31st, 2020 12:19:46 PM
'Lil ain't sure if this is really her dude Haemir, or just another vision like the ones that keep poppin' up. The rest of her dudes seem to think it's him, and she trusts them and all...

She decides it's better to fall for a trap than not be happy Haemir's back. That kinda thinkin's likely to get her killed one-a these days, but she ain't gonna live forever anyway.

"Don't move too quickly, dude," is all she says as she checks him out (heal: 18 - he ok?). She spares a glance for Akuno, wonderin' if she's gonna freak out over this.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday August 31st, 2020 1:46:09 PM

Poor Akuno.

She was trying, really she was. She had started cleaning camps, she had stopped fussing quite so much over her laces and dresses, and sometimes she was even willing to go an hour or two without Rose's Temperature Control active, so she had alarm spells for night watch. There were things she could handle now that she couldn't before.

This was not one of them.

She was willing to pull on the membrane, but getting grabbed by an icky slime hand was simply far too much for a fledgling adventurer to take! Her eyes widen and she yanks backwards, helping birth the sticky elf from the puddle of goo. A sticky gross elf that suddenly talks right at her.

"Aaaaaaah!", is her reply. Recoiling from the horror of whatever the heck this was, she scoops up her Unseen Servant and starts swinging wildly, wielding the poor spirit like its only logical use is pummeling gross elves. Only when people start calling the fellow by his name, does she stop and come to her senses. She turns and bounds backwards, tail tucked, scampering on all fours and skidding to a stop behind Lil. She shakes something invisible, probably her unfortunate servant, at Haemir. She looks around wild eyed for someone, anyone, willing to explain.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday August 31st, 2020 5:59:12 PM
Upon seeing the elf expelled from the slimy mass, and some of the group move forward and talk to the elf like an old friend, Thorondir starts to fly in lower circles towards them. He screeches as he flies tight circles just above the group.

in eagle Highlight to display spoiler: {"What is that, is it safe? Should I kill it?"}

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Monday August 31st, 2020 6:28:59 PM
"That must have taken some bravery on your... Pffpflblm" Haemir stops the sentence as his hair puffs up wild from Akuno's assault with an Unseen Servant. "Um what just happened"? He says looking somewhat perplexed.

"Caelwyn? Grindar? Bigby? Lil? Yes of course it's me!? Why do you sound so shocked? I can't have slept more than a few hours" he says sitting up slowly. He looks healthy enough - maybe a scratch or two from his kit landing on him but he seems happy judging by the smile on his face as his vision slowly returns.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday August 31st, 2020 9:58:49 PM
Caelwyn glances at his companions, then back to Haemir. He keeps his face composed as he asks, "Haemir, what is the last thing you remember?"

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day ??, daybreak
Monday August 31st, 2020 10:15:44 PM
Joseph can't help himself. "You know this guy?" Clearly Joseph and Mark are more than a little surprised by the events of the morning so far. But perhaps the question isn't such a clear cut one.

The Haemir that came out of the cocoon looks far different from the Haemir that some of the group adventured with from Hook City. And those that weren't with the group when Haemir joined the caravan wagon are clearly perplexed.

"Um. Not to rush you or anything, but we can make it to the village by nightfall." Joseph continues, "Is he coming with us?"

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 5:38:52 AM
Hearing urgency in Joseph's voice Haemir grabs his kit and secures it. "Hi. My name is Haemir..." he says to him "and I'm sure I'm not staying here. Let's go!"

"The last thing was yesterday when we were being chased by that gargantuan monster and Fand dropped a thunderstone on it... Then I remember feeling odd - tired I guess. The elderly woman from the caravan - 'Auntie' offered me somewhere to rest and... Here I am the next morning? Same day? Actually I feel pretty good! So where are we going anyway? The Crystal mountains wasn't it?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 6:47:22 AM
"Brother Haemir, we are traveling to meet with a village of Manfri", Grindar offers to his lost friend, then looks around and asks, "What happened to change your appearance so, and why isn't Fand with you? Oh where are my manners, allow me to introduce the newest members of our pack. That's Akuno, she's a little green, but has a good heart, and has great potential. the Eagle squawking at us is actually an elf named Thorondir and his bird friends name is Aewen, and this is my new animal friend Llew", he says indicating a male white lion.

He casts speak with animals, when Thorondir starts squawking and after learning what the druid is saying he says, in eagle, "Don't worry he's part of the pack!" Turning back to Haemir, he says, "Oh our pack calls itself the Sargrass Sentinels now!"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 7:59:34 AM
Sol's eyes go wide as he sees Haemir again.

Without saying a word he walks up to Haemir and wraps his arms around him, apparently ignoring the sludge and slime, hugging him tightly.

"It is good to see you again..."

He then casts Prestidigitation to clean both himself and Haemir.

"But we should get moving, we do not want to be caught up by Rapke or anything else that will swarm over here at night. Welcome back my friend, no rest for the wicked as they say."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 12:18:25 PM
'Lil wonders if Haemir's even aware of how different he looks. Ain't no mirrors handy unless Akuno's got one. She realizes the cat girl probably does have a mirror, actually.

She takes Akuno's hand and raises her back to two legs again, then wipes a bunch of the slime off it. Akuno can just magic the slime off, but 'Lil wants her to know she's got Akuno's back. "I'd a probably flipped out a little too. You got a mirror Haemir can use in that pack of yours?"

Haemir can look as he walks, though. Joseph's right about needing to keep moving.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 2:06:48 PM
Bigby goes over to hug Haemir but then stops. "Sorry it's terribly hard to get that stuff out of fur. But good to have you back." Bigby smiles at Haemir and just nods to what Grindar and the rest say in order to fill Haemir and the new guys in."[/b]

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 5:51:52 PM

"Mirror. Yes. So this one is a friend?" Akuno thinks about her own question. Of course he is. No one splatted him yet, and he was being kind to her, now that she considered his words.

The catgirl is short, as are all beastfolk. She is wearing an impossible amount of lace in a heavy red and black dress covered with silk frills, pompous ribbons, and all of it is bedecked in gems and stones. It's an outfit reserved for nobility, to be sure. Her face betrays some trepidation, and Haemir is sure there's a healthy dose of scrutiny in her pouty features. She slaps her own cheeks twice, then steps out from behind Lil. She slips her silvered mirror from her haversack, and bravely meets Haemir in the open.

That Bigby seems to be within arms reach is purely coincidence.

She offers the mirror, without getting too close. She plops what he can figure is yet another unseen servant on the ground, gives it the mirror, and scoots it towards Haemir. "I'm sorry I screamed at you. I didn't even scream when I saw Bigby, and well. Look at him." She points towards his obvious, doglike features. Then she wriggles own cat-styled ears and tail. She figures the implication is clear. "If he can fuzzy and kind of cute, then I'm sure you have your charms too. And THAT means that your probably okay. Nice to meet you, I'm Princess Akuno Neko." She offers a practiced curtsy. "Lil has given me the title of Dude. If you are one of her friends, then its agreeable that you just call me Akuno, or dude, unless you like mouthfuls of names and titles."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=25 ; d20+10=13 ;
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 9:18:43 PM
Since Grindar can communicate with Thorondir, he says “I’ll meet your friend when we get to the city, for now I’ll stay with Aewen and keep watch until we are out of the grass.”

Perception Thorondir 25 Aewen 13

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 9:27:55 PM
"Brother Grindar a village of Manfri you say? Excellent!" his smile is genuine and warm.

'I love this group' he thinks as he listens 'but it's not like I've been gone long. Wait it must be a few hours extra. Maybe I slept for a whole day. They have a name - that must have taken an hour and they have new companions... Three extra tops!?!'.

He listens squinting till the painful glare of the sun forces him to don some smoked goggles and he slightly surprises himself when the first thing he really sees is Llew calmly looking at him.
"WHOA" he says almost jumping back 'When did he creep up on me?" But after regaining his composure he executes a well practiced bow to the lion and calls up "Greetings Thorondir" in Elven and tips his head.

Returning Sol's hug with a light back slap he is genuinely touched by the welcomes if somewhat perplexed himself.

When Bigby stands back he takes a moment to look at everyone and returns the greeting with a warm smile .. In truth a little nervous now that everyone is saying such a lovely 'good morning' to him.

Meeting all questions about his appearance with a curious raised eyebrow he accepts the mirror and returns Akuno's curtsy with a "Thank you very much" and another well executed bow. "Sorry about the slime dude".

As the group sets off Haemir waits till no one is looking and nudges Bigby.
"Hey buddy.. I dunno what you took from that but Akuno said you were cute" he whispers with a conspiratorial boyish grin and a cheeky wink before straightening up and moving on as if nothing happened.

A while later remembering the mirror in his hand he examines his face. Several gasps and shocks tell you all you need to know and as he walks on in silence every now-&-then he suddenly raises the mirror, perhaps in hope of catching it off guard and seeing his old features again.
After ensuring the mirror returned he plods on occasionally glimpsing sky-ward. A few times he sees Thorondir and Aewen and mistakes the second eagle for Fand briefly but then reminds himself that the witty soul can look after herself. Still he catches himself worrying:
'Where are you Fand...? I hope you're ok...!' far too many times.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 9:57:43 PM
Caelwyn walks in the back of the group, keeping a careful eye on Haemir. "It's hard to believe, but a significant amount of time has passed since we last saw you. I'm sure you are a bit shocked by all this, but do not worry - I'm sure we can figure out exactly what happens. We are glad to have you back safe!"

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day ??, evening
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 11:11:51 PM
Joseph and Mark lead the party through the ranthom path most of the day, then decide it is time to turn off. After another hour of travel through the grasses, the group encounters a couple of large boulders. Mark becomes agitated. "We aren't in time today," he says, "We need to go back a bit." Joseph just shrugs, "Then we'll see them first thing tomorrow." and suggests they halt there.

Joseph and Mark start discussing whether this is too close to the village to camp. It becomes clear that the problem isn't camping here, but camping here without first having gotten permission. Mark doesn't want to risk insulting the nearby manfri. Joseph maintains that there is no other place as good to camp nearby.

"Manfri can be very untrusting," Mark explains. "If they decide we are a threat, it will go worse for our mission than if we meet them in broad daylight. The rocks mark the border of their taudo. We absolutely must not go past them without permission. As it is, we will be on their doorstep -- so to speak -- if we stay here. Joseph is right, we would be less likely to encounter animals here than further away. But we have not been having troubles at night, and are likely to have them tomorrow if we don't move back."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 10:10:41 AM
I have no desire to offend the Manfri, let’s move away a bit, it’s not like it’s going to throw off our meeting in the morning.”

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 11:29:35 AM
"Yea, why come all this way then go and upset'em just because this place is cozier?" She still don't much like having to deal with all these rules, customs, and assorted mores these Manfri seem to have. What does it say about a people when they insist on havin' so many ways to upset them? How exhausting must it be to live in a place like that?

Or, maybe she's puttin' the cart before the rapke. Maybe it's all intentional. Maybe it gives'em an excuse to act however they feel like. "Yes, you all died in agony after hours of torture, but you should have known better than to step past these rocks without permission."

"Hey guys," she starts addressing Joseph and Mark. "What happens when we break these Manfri rules anyway? Do they get violent, or just indignant?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 7:24:03 PM
"I concur. We want to make a good impression, let us get permission before we press on."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 7:34:23 PM
Thorondir speaks to Haemir in elfish “I am Thorondir and was sent by the druids to look after this group. Apparently my mission will take years and they have offered me membership in the Sargrass Sentinels, Grindar claims there is a blood oath involved, but so far it is only he that bleeds.”

Thorondir is in agreement, “We should withdraw and make camp”

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 10:02:39 PM
"I believe that Manfri guy walked away last time when we offended him when we weren't paying attention to what he was saying. I remember not understanding that moment at the time. I'm guessing they get indignant, but I can't fully otherwise. Anyhow, yeah make camp sounds good." That felt like the most Bigby had said in a while. Bigby must be tired if he's talking so much like this.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 10:57:47 PM
Caeleyn agrees with the majority of the group. "Better to set a more careful watch than jeopardize the entire mission. We'll set watches in pairs tonight, perhaps?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=2 ; d20=10 ;
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 11:00:00 PM

Akuno watches Haemir walk away with her mirror. She raises a small hand, but drops it without saying anything. It's not like he'd be leaving them in the dead of night to abscond with her mirror or anything. When its time for watches, she has an alarm spell she can cast.

During downtime, she flips through her picture books, looking at different suits and dresses, sighing at some and making little sketches next to others. She looks at Haemir a few times, and finally seems to come to a decision. She makes a note or two, then closes her book. She starts arranging the throw pillows and her bedroll on her floating disk, then calls it a night wherever the others decide is best.

Tomorrow was another big day.

--------------

Perception for herself during watch: 1
Perception from the Unseen Servant: 10

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day ??+1, morning
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 11:50:35 PM
The group moves away to a less desirable campsite, and Mark does his best to answer Lil's question.

"I've never seen a violent Manfri, but there are those who say they can be very fierce. Still, if you're serious about not offending them, which considering why we're here we'd best not do, best not carry metal into their taudo. In fact, they don't care for anything brought into the Sargrass from outside. I wouldn't suggest that you do without your religious symbols or the cat lady there leave her frilly dresses. Don't think that would seem like yourselves. Just don't draw attention to them, either." Beyond that, the guides say not to expect to stay in the taudo overnight.

Despite the arguments about the best campsite, the night passes without incident. In the morning, the Sentinels return to the rocks that mark the border of the Manfri's land. Mark and Joseph carefully remove their metal items, and place them in tarp under the edge of one of the rocks. Then they wait.

By mid-morning, a manfri has shown up. The little, black humanoid is a head shorter than Akuno, He looks rather like a four or five year old human, except for his large eyes. His armor is woven grass, and he carries something that at first glance looks like a bow, until you realize the curved part is the "string" and the straight part a reed. His first question is direct, "You wish to visit the taudo. What message should I take as to why?"

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 2:29:47 AM
Having already given the mirror back (above) Haemir nodded in agreement to all the suggestions and keeps silent (not knowing what bought the group here) when the Manfri arrives.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 6:25:08 AM
Grindar stashes Bwyell and his daggers with the brothers gear in the tarp, though he keeps his quarterstaff, and leans on it like a walking stick. When the manfri arrives, he keeps quiet, and allows his more charismatic pack mates to do the talking.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 10:30:16 AM

The last Manfri they had met called her a spoiled brat. "Its pretty darn hard to be spoiled surrounded by grass, bugs, and monsters." thinks Akuno. Still, for now she would forgo all of her creature comfort spells. "I don't know any jokes.", she says aloud to whomever is listening. Her eyes lock on Caelwyn. "But this child I met when I was younger taught me how to make a silly noise with my armpit. I could give that a try?"

-------------------------------------

After the Manfri arrives, she silently mouths some words to Caelwyn. "Just tell me when." She says. Then with an impressive amount of conspiracy driven innuendo, she slowly points to her armpit just to make dead sure he knows what she's talking about. Otherwise, she's on her best behavior, and tries to be polite in all the right places.

(Original post was eaten. Passed an aid another check in diplomacy for whomever might use the skill. So someone gets +2 to their diplomacy check.)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+10=18 ;
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 11:20:03 AM
'Lil's gotta lotta metal on her.

She puts Ramona, Maya, and her breastplate in her fancy backpack. She also puts the quilted jerkin she wears under it in the pack since she ain't gotta worry about chafin'. She's left wearing a pair of loose cotton pants and a midriff-exposing tank-top. Her holy symbol is tattooed on her chest, so she's able to enter Manfri lands without a bit'a metal on her. She ain't overly modest, but she feels naked without her stuff. She does her best to make sure her body language don't give that away.

'Lil's diplomacy game is pretty strong, but she's in a situation that's still kinda alien to her. She trusts Cae's more flowery diplomacy to her own straight-to-the-point approach here. She'll get ready to nod appropriately or elbow her paladin dude if he starts to go down a bad path.

Diplomacy aid other: 18. Should give a +2 on top of Akuno's.

She gently takes the hand that was about to go into Akuno's armpit, then gives it a friendly squeeze. She holds on to it...

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 3:19:07 PM
Thorondir doesn't have much metal, he puts his dagger and a few sling bullets beneath the rock. Thinking, he reaches into his pack and pulls out the steel from his flint and steel kit.
"Metal is highly overrated anyway, you should be able to survive without it."

Thorondir waits to let others answer the question. Aewen sits on his shoulder, and they preen each other.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 4:47:47 PM
Bigby doesn't think he has metal on him but he double checks to make sure and removes anything metal. Bigby moves in place with the rest and trust the talking party to do their thing. Bigby was curious as to the armpit thing that Akuno suggested. Bigby decided to ask her about it later.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 7:36:48 PM
Sol also removes anything metal from his person, though he wouldn't have much beyond things like belts and coins.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day ??+1, mid-morning d20=4 ;
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 11:58:51 PM
With no explanation forthcoming from the Sentinels, Joseph pitches in. "We would like to bargain for the skills of the Manfri." He sounds somewhat unsure of himself, clearly not expecting to be in the position of speaking. The manfri watches impassively for a moment, then promises to return soon.

"What you have to go and say it like that for?" Mark asks after the little fellow leaves. "Well, I didn't see you pitching in," is the only reply he gets.

The manfri isn't gone very long before he returns and says to follow him. He moves through the grass very quickly, but even the non-druids in the party find themselves keeping up.

After fifteen or twenty minutes or travel, everyone but Thorondir and Akuno make a DC 15 perception roll, or Thorondir make a DC 20 Know Nature roll. Highlight to display spoiler: {The manfri is about to enter a patch of glassgrass. While it makes a nice liquor, the blades do considerable damage if you walk through them.}

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14 d20+1=19 ;
Friday September 4th, 2020 5:26:47 AM
Haemir replied to Thorondir in Elvish. "It's an honour to meet you. Yes there was a blood oath we took before we left." He thinks for a second before wrapping his rapier in cloth and stashing it in his bag before continuing , " Would you do me a favour? when you are up in the sky .. Magnificent by the way. I wish I could fly... Should you see a bright blue bird. A Macaw actually. It's my friend and travelling companion. Could you let her know I am here please"

As they walk Haemir (Perception:19) spots the glassgrass "WHOA steady this is the grass that will shed your skin... Careful!" he says pointing to it.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+9=26 ;
Friday September 4th, 2020 9:58:08 AM
Perception 26

Grindar too notices the Glassgrass, and says to their Manfri guide, "We are ill equipped to walk through such grass, is there another way?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+9=24 ;
Friday September 4th, 2020 10:07:14 AM
Thorondir follows the manfri along through the grass with the others. As the grass changes Thorondir says "Careful, this is glass grass ahead. It can give a terrible cuts from the sharp blades. We best walk around this grass, especially Lil without her armor."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+8=22 ;
Friday September 4th, 2020 4:57:56 PM
Maybe she shoulda gone ahead and spoke up after all.

She sees that grass they's talking about, but doubts she woulda noticed it for what it is. She ignores Thorondir's judgements, seein' how it ain't him she's out here tryin'a serve. Her arm finds its way inside Haemir's elbow as they walk. "Good eye, dude. Hope ya find your friend soon."

Is there an obvious way around it? She wonders if this was a test from the Manfri to see if they're seasoned enough to spot that stuff...or maybe they think they should have to walk through it if they're gonna ask for help?

She shakes that last thought away. Ain't gonna do no one no good to keep assuming the worst like this.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday September 4th, 2020 6:18:12 PM
Sol goes over to Haemir, a thoughtful questioning look on his face.

"So what happened to you? You said you were only asleep for a short period of time, but in reality you have been gone for quite some time..."

He looks concerned for his friend.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday September 4th, 2020 10:23:39 PM

Akuno stops, ears perked and tail stiff. "The grass can cut me?" She looks distraught. She clearly doesn't want to be the one to offend the Manfri with her .. taste for luxury and ease.. but she also isn't about to get hurt.

She looks from Thorondir to their Manfri guide, then to the grass and finally back to the Manfri. "Maybe he's trying to pull a joke?" She points out the guides saying that pretty much anything was fair game with these people. "Ya know, drag the urban folk through the ol' dangerous grass or something?"

Either way, she wasn't having it. What if her dresses got ripped? Grindar feels a tug at his hand. He finds big, sad eyes looking up at him. She points up at his large, broad shoulders. "Up?, she politely asks. One eye innocently slides over towards Llew. That too, would work nicely.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday September 4th, 2020 11:10:46 PM
Caelwyn thinks as he walks. "I am happy to speak to them next time...I think we need to represent this as an agreement for mutual advantage. Let's make sure we are all in agreement - what do the Manfri have that we want, and what are we willing to trade for it? I want to be respectful in making this deal."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=15 ;
Friday September 4th, 2020 11:27:07 PM
perception 15. Bigby nods to Thorondir. "be careful with that grass."

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day ??+1, late morning d20=2 ; d20=16 ;
Saturday September 5th, 2020 11:45:41 AM
The manfri barely breaks its stride as it heads into the glass grass, although it does grin.

Sense motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The manfri may be pleased that the party spotted the danger. It does not seem upset like you would expect if this had been a trap.}

The manfri begins humming tunelessly, and a path parts in the glass grass. While the path may seem amply wide for manfri moving single file or the beast folk in the party, large creatures would be unable to travel it, and medium creatures require a DC 10 save to avoid damage -- use the better of reflex or fortitude. The path is neither short nor straight, but Joseph and Mark assure the Sentinels that, "There is no way around," as the guides move forward.

Once through the glass grass, the party steps into a wide clear space with many grass huts in it. A large number of manfri look on curiously at their arrival, Several cluck and point to Joseph, who has a line of fresh blood on his arm. Moments later a seeming toddler comes over from one of the huts -- maybe a child, you see no others as small -- with an ointment for Joseph's cut.

The village appears rustic and organic. You see nothing not made from grass, no sign of material comforts that would contribute to physical ease, no sign of wealth. The ground you are standing on is rocky, maybe a big shelf of rock that the grass cannot grow on.

"Welcome to the taudo," your manfri guide says, and heads towards another hut. "She who acts as nominal leader will consider your request." In a lower voice he adds, as he leaves you at the door to the hut, "Please do not worry if we seem rude. Most of us do not speak your language, and all of us are curious. I will see that the midday meal is brought."

Inside, an older woman sits on the ground beside a small loom. She looks at you curiously for a while before somewhat self-consciously asking, "How may I help you?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+4=7 ;
Saturday September 5th, 2020 12:10:51 PM
Thorondir nods as Haemir tells him about his friend. "Really, there is nothing like flying. We must find a way for you to do that someday. I will look for your friend, and more importantly I will ask Aewen to look and to not kill it for food. I'm sure once they know each other they will become friends."

When his warnings about the glass grass has mixed responses and then the group starts to walk through it on a very thin path controlled by the manfri. Thorondir shrugs, and wildshapes into an eagle and joins Aewen up in the sky. While there, he explains to Aewen to look for the blue macaw and to not harm it.

Upon arrival at the village, Thorondir lands and changes back into himself. Aewen joins him to rest for a while. He waits for someone in the group to answer the manfri's questions. This would be a good reason to have a leader. Thorondir thinks.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14 d20+5=24 ; d20+5=17 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+11=22 ;
Monday September 7th, 2020 4:48:50 AM
Haemir seems a little surprised at first when Lil slides her arm through his then relaxes and looks again up to the sky when Fand is mentioned. "Thanks Lil. So how long I was asleep?"

Hearing Sol's question (and mention of 'quite some time') he begins to dread the answer.
"I don't really understand how it happened but Fand is very special. When I was close to drowning she saved my life. Our bond is different to yours and Corbins. Not that it's any less of course but I think of Fand as having a dual nature - a beautiful bird mixed with the spirit of a grouchy, sarcastic old Bloodwitch inside. That part of her was once human. If that bond has failed due to my sleep .. If it broke ..." his voice falters briefly "then Fand Netley will be lost forever and the bird will just be ... well simply a bird again".

Haemir doesn't give away the fact that his eyes are welling up... all manly? Nah it's all in the goggles.

When Thorondir mentions flying Haemir purses his lips and seems to be chewing his tongue lost in imagination of what it must be like to fly!

As the group fans out and passes between the sharp grasses the elf is careful (Fort:17) and assists anyone around him.

As they arrive at the village he is in his element. Rustic, simple cultures often know things that civilisation forgets or never knew .. He is bubbling with excitement at the potential and smiles at everyone - As curious about them as they are the party! If any of the kids come near him - he performs simple (Sleight of hand:17) tricks making a small shell disappear then reappear etc. He also checks out the huts and designs (knowledge Engineering:22).

When the old woman greets the group he imagines saying a dozen things but falls short of saying anything (Diplomacy:8) and settles with a nice bow to her.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+5=7 ; d20+10=12 ; d20+10=15 ;
Monday September 7th, 2020 6:53:28 PM
'Lil tries her darndest to get through that grass ok, but she ends up gettin' sliced (fort save 7). If that Manfri had any kinda purpose behind this, she misses it (sense motive 12).

She tries thinkin' back about how long Haemir's been gone. So much has happened that she can't even remember when he vanished. "Several weeks, at least," is the answer she settles on. "We're gonna have to spend some time catching you up. Lot's happened." It ain't the right time to do that, though.

Following Haemir's bow, she does the same. She figures this is probably "she who acts as a nominal leader." She decides against waiting for someone else to talk this time.

"Well ma'am, we're here on behalf'a New Rattledam to talk about opening relations with the Manfri. We're quickly learning there's a lot to know about staying alive and thriving in this place, and could use all the help we can get. We're hopin' we got sometime to offer that'll help get us working together."

Boy, she sure hopes she didn't step on any toes by sayin' that.

Diplomacy: 15

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+8=24 ;
Monday September 7th, 2020 7:22:01 PM
for:24. Moving through the grass and watching out for sharp slicers from the grass. Bigby not being one for diplomacy himself, but he can appreciate it when it's being done by others for a good cause. Bigby just continues to nod as 'Lil and Caelwyn diplomacize the Manfri.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=20 ;
Monday September 7th, 2020 8:57:42 PM
Caelwyn echoes Lil'l words, inclining his head to the manfri leader as he speaks. "It is an honor to meet you. As my companion said, the people we speak for are new to the Sargrass and the challenges and opportunities it presents. We hope to establish friendly relations with your people, and trade as well. But we also hope to obtain help, that our new community may take root and flourish, to the benefit of both our peoples."

Diplomacy 20

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=24 ;
Monday September 7th, 2020 8:58:47 PM
Caelwyn has no blood upon him as he speaks, having managed to navigate the grasses without getting cut.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday September 7th, 2020 9:28:12 PM

Akuno is quiet. She's learned that people don't really like her point of view on things. She wasn't sure that she could stay that way. Being impulsive was part of who she was.

DM Steve -- Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+1, late morning
Monday September 7th, 2020 10:50:37 PM
'Lil was also given some ointment for her cuts and scrapes when Joseph was. It cuts down on the stinging.

"Begging your pardon, ma'am, but I think that while we are interested in diplomatic relations with the Manfri, our immediate concern is to ask if there is anything we could trade in exchange for help from some of your weavers," Mark says, as it was thought that manfri weavers would make the best hull for the ship. Joseph remains silent and hangs near the back of the group.

The manfri woman considers for a few moments, and says, "Very well." Then she carefully asks several questions, taking time to choose her words and listening closely to the answers.
"What is New Rattledam? Please describe it to me.
Why is our weaving your immediate need if you need knowledge to stay alive?
What would the goodwill of your community mean to us?
Do you offer anything specific?"

It is not long before other manfri bring food. Perhaps not surprisingly there is no drink offered. Mostly the food tastes bland, although it is varied with meat, vegetables, flatbread, and pastes. All of it seems to have been spiced with the same thing. However, you find that what appear to be tiny, rubbery eggs actually contain little water centers. There are not many of these eggs, and Mark and Joseph seem to be surprised to see them.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+9=23 ; d20+6=17 ;
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 6:52:39 AM
Grindar tries explaining New Rattledam, "I assume you've heard of Rattledam, the city that once was, well mam, we are attempting to rebuild it. People from all over the continent, and, in my case at least, other parts of the Wold are attempting to make a new life for themselves, and the site of old Rattledam was deemed the best place to start, hence new Rattledam. As far as your weaving, and why it is so important, I would say is a two fold answer. first their is the issue with the protective dome over Rattledam, which as I'm sure you're aware, Old Rattledam had, and it is the belief of many that New Rattledam should have one as well. The other reason, and possibly the more pressing of the two is we are building a small fleet of druid wood boats, to make travel on the plains safer, and as you may know, much of the hull of the boats were made from the woven grasses of your people."

OOC.. sorry for failing to post yesterday, with the holiday weekend here in the states, it simply slipped my mind.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 7:09:12 AM
Sol simply remains quiet, knowing his skills don't lie in talking to people, and also seems very shocked at the talk about Fand, he remains quiet with a furrowed brow, not talking, and only answering with the shortest and simplest answers when spoken to, and making no effort to keep a conversation going.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 10:33:34 AM

When the food is brought, Akuno seems instantly lifted out of her melancholy. "Thank you! I appreciate the food.", she says as she pops a little watery egg in her mouth. "The food is good! What are these eggs?" Akuno wonders if the eggs come from a bird of some kind? She skips right over the vegetables, on her first pass, but is sure to eat at least one of everything before she's done. Her eyes brighten up, and she begs about a dozen of her salt fish from 'Lil, at least one for each Manfri in the hut, and maybe a few more?

"In thanks, I would like to offer something that is my own personal favorite. I admit that out here, it isn't a very practical food, but fish is a creature that swims in the salty waters of the oceans or the freshwater lakes of other continents." She wraps the bundle of fish and offers it. "This fish is great tasting, but to make it safe you have to soak it in water or alcohol for awhile, to pull the salt out of it. Prestidigitation magic might do it too." She smiles happily and pats her tummy. "Once its soaked, you can either smoke it, grill it, brew it in a stew, dry it out and flake it on top of other foods, or just eat it plain." She suddenly casts a mischievous glance towards the Manfri. "Or you can knock the obvious salt off and serve it as is to someone, and that big salty bite is quite a shock! Its a good joke and no one gets hurt!"

She rubs her hands together, following the line of thought. "Or, you could make a party game out of it! One piece for everyone, including a salty piece. No one knows who gets it, and everyone has to take a big hearty first bite!" She falls on her back and sighs happily, envisioning Caelywns bossy face all scrunched up with salt. She finds her composure and sits back up. "However you want to use them is up to you, but fish are my number one favorite and you can't really get them here in the Sargrass, but I'm happy to share them with new friends." She smiles genuinely, then is suddenly aware that she did it again, and went off on a tangent.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 10:34:12 AM
Haemir listens and when the Manfri asks "Do you offer anything specific?" he asks "Is there anything specific your village needs"?

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 11:17:23 AM
'Lil gives Mark a side glance, wonderin' why he decided to go so specific so fast. They just met this lady, maybe start with big picture stuff...

Anyway, the lady asked questions. She learned last time she dealt with these folks they didn't much appreciate when questions were answered with more questions. She's glad her dudes answered her straight forward. Well, except for Akuno, but she's gonna be herself and the cat girl was growing on her.

She likely notices Mark and Joseph's reaction to these eggs. Are they a delicacy, she wonders? She'll try one. Then, she'll answer a question no one else did.

"What would the goodwill of our community mean to you? Maybe nothing." She wipes her mouth off; those eggs were juicier than she expected. "We aim to be straight with you here. It's real possible we ain't got nothing to offer that's gonna interest you. May be we end up appealing to your goodwill, but I ain't gonna blame if you that ain't enough. Truth is there's a lot we don't know about you folk. Makes it hard to know what to offer.

"That said, we have a bunch of goodhearted folks with a lotta different backgrounds. My friends and I got a wide range of skills and can handle ourselves in most situations. Back in town we got merchants, farmers, sailors and a bunch else. We also have relations with the monks and druids who live here, but I can't much say they're super strong relations. Some'a those druids ain't fond of no one who ain't a druid, but we fought with them against something called a mutation bloom and bonded with a bunch of them.

"Besides all that, it's my personal philosophy that goodwill between goodhearted communities is always better than indifference or animosity. If we're gonna be sharing these grasses, I know I'd personally like to be on good terms with our neighbors."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 1:27:47 PM
"It is clear you have everything you need to survive here in the grass, quite comfortably in fact."
Thorondir says to the manfri woman.

"Lil here is a cleric, and has power to heal. I can also do a bit. Perhaps there is someone who may need healing at times, though your salve is good I see. Her healing can mend broken bones or deep wounds. Perhaps we could set up a traveling clinic that can come occasionally to help heal those in need? I can also help you communicate with the animals if ever needed, I can speak their language."

"Lil is right though, helping for the sake of friendship is what we should strive for. I will help if you ever need it even if we can not come to an agreement in trade."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 1:52:21 PM
Bigby listens to the conversation and trusts his pack to do what needs to be done. When it is a good time to ask, Bigby asks about the eggs with water in them. "These eggs seem special. Can you tell me more about them?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=18 ;
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 9:01:03 PM
Caelwyn nods as he listens to Thorondir and Lil's words. "I would be happy to offer my own healing services as well, in Domi's name." He also adds to Grindar's remark - "Indeed, we have an agreement with one of the druids to craft a special vessel, that will allow us to bring supplies in and out of New Rattledam. We have the materials for the craft, but your people have unparalleled skill as weavers. If you were willing to help us, we would be able to get our vessel ready sooner. Then we would have access to more and better goods and equipment, that we would be able to trade and share with you, our neighbors."

Diplomacy 18

DM Steve -- Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+1, late morning d20=15 ;
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 11:44:40 PM
The party has a long and friendly discussion with the manfri woman.

This manfri has indeed heard of Rattledam, the hidden village. She seems interested to learn it is being rebuilt by outsiders. It was a monk stronghold, you know.

The manfri never had a hand in building or maintaining the domes of Rattledam and Oddholme. Why is it that you find a need to dome the village again?

Hulls for druid wood boats, that would be well within their skill. How is it that druid wood was found for the building of boats?

The eggs? Oh, those aren't eggs, they are seed pods from a particular grass that have been prepared to be edible. If you tried to eat an untreated pod, well it would be much like eating a stone. One or two provide enough water for a manfri for a day.

Fish? Fish sound strange. They would be willing to try salt fish, after making sure that it is safe for them to eat. Thank you for the gift.

The taudo is self-sufficient, so there is nothing specific they would ask for on a continuing basis. That is why she was curious as to what you felt you had to offer.

She is interested in the mutation bloom. Can you describe what that is?

She agrees that goodwill is better than indifference or animosity, but the manfri have not seen much goodwill from outsiders as a whole. Still, she has not heard that most outsiders are the sharing sort, so it is good to hear you phrase it that way.

It is true that there are times when healing magic would be a great boon. But those times are not scheduled. Would the travelling healers use this vessel you propose to construct?

By the middle of the afternoon, the woman says she is inclined to help, but must consult with others about it. Would the sentinels please camp outside of the boundary to the taudo? A scout will be sent to return them in the morning.

Assuming that you agree to wait for word on the next day, the process of leaving is similar to that of arriving, Any medium size characters taking the path away from the taudo need to make a DC 10 save vs the better of reflex or fortitude.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+3=12 ;
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 2:34:05 AM
Sol manages to pass the check, but doesn't seem that interested in worrying about it, he is still remaining almost completely silent.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14 d20+5=13 ; d20+5=19 ;
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 4:44:50 AM
After hearing the outcome of the successful meeting Haemir passes through the grass looking happy (Fort:13).

"Quite impressive negotiations. Well done" he says smiling with an even greater respect for the sentinels now.

Noticing Sol's reflective mood (sense motive:19) he waits till a quiet moment - setting up camp perhaps?!

"Sol, are you ok?" he asks with concern on his face.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 6:54:30 AM
Grindar would try to answer any questions as honestly as he could, deferring to his friends if a question was asked that he didn't feel he could answer properly. After they are back at camp, Grindar doesn't say much, as he is pondering the out come of the negotiations, and praying the other Manfri see things as their leader does.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 11:10:18 AM

As soon as they break away from the Taudo, Akuno immediately resumes her castings of Rose's Temperature control. She offers one to anyone else who is tired of the constant heat. "Whew! Much better!", she says as she starts arranging pillows on a floating disk again. "That seemed to go okay. Now what?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 12:03:15 PM
'Lil tells the woman the story of the mutation bloom, the druids, the tree what died in the fighting and the hotly contested decision to turn it into a boat...all of it.

She's really impressed by the seed pod thing.

Later on the outskirts, she pokes Haemir. "The only thing they said would be helpful is magical healing, but they're right that we can't just show up quick when they need us. Any chance you can make potions?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+8=11 ;
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 2:11:30 PM
"Can you show us how to find and prepare these seed pods?" Bigby not sure if he was asking too much or not, but he decided that the information could come in handy out in the Sargrass. Fort save 11. Bigby narrowly makes it through the sharp grass but makes it nonetheless. "potions sound like a good idea. If we can't make them at the very least we have access to them. or can pay to get them for the manfri. Just a thought."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=10 ;
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 11:12:09 PM
Caelwyn barely avoids the sharp grasses, but manages to make it through. He is pleased about how negotiations have gone so far. He is also concerned about being able to make it to help heal quickly when need be, so maybe making potions is the best idea...

DM Steve -- Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+2, early morning d20=15 ; d20=17 ;
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 11:21:49 PM
The manfri woman declines to promise to teach about the seed pods for now. It's a complicated process, and there is no time today.

Once the Sentinels are back just beyond the boulders, Mark and Joseph begin setting up camp. "Well, that went well," they say, but then they caution you not to get your hopes up. It's only the first step. The hard step will be to get the old man to agree. "You see, that woman acts as nominal leader. It's kind of complicated. She's a good leader, but the old man actually has the authority. The rest of the taudo like her, and accept her opinions on just about anything. But the old man likes to make the important decisions, and this will be one he weighs in on. No telling for sure how he will react, but if and when you get to see him, you'd best all line up behind one spokesman and help him make the case for goodwill being worthwhile." Joseph adds, "They liked that gesture with the fish, but the old man won't. Too foreign for his notions."

The night passes without event. In the morning, 'Lil discovers that the scratches she had received on the way into the taudo have healed overnight. Joseph's have, too.

After breakfast, Mark and Joseph make sure their metal items are tucked back away, and wait. Before long, the guide shows up to take you back.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday September 10th, 2020 6:07:40 AM
Grindar two puts his metal objects away leaving Bwyell and his daggers behind. He knows that as they talk to the old man, he is not the one to speak. His speech isn't as colorful as Lil's, or as expressive as Caelwyn's. He is a strait forward, shoot from the hip, honest kind of guy, and he knows that colorful and expressive speech is what will be needed. He prepares himself, ready to help out as much as he can, but he knows the heavy lifting will be up to his more charismatic friends.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Thursday September 10th, 2020 1:23:30 PM
'Lil wonders at the cuts that are gone. Maybe these folks don't need magical healing as much as she thought. She leaves her metal again and considers the upcoming diplomacy.

"I figure you and I are the best diplomats we got, Cae," she says as they walk. "You talk really pretty, which I ain't too good at. Not sure that's gonna win these folks over, but what do I know?" She asks Mark and Joseph. "What do you guys think? Reckon they'd respond better to Caelwyn's more proper diplomacy or my own?" 'Lil is more than happy to respect their experience here.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 10th, 2020 1:38:23 PM
Bigby puts away any metal which he doesn't think he has much of. But he does make sure to do so. "I wonder if we could just ask if there's anything we can do to prove our goodwill to them?" After saying so, Bigby let's 'Lil and Caelwyn do thier thing. or whoever else does that stuff.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday September 10th, 2020 4:50:01 PM

Akuno tries not to look grumpy. "I'll have you know, Lil, that some people consider me pretty cute to talk to. And I am something of an expert at considering the needs of races other than my own." Her hands rest on her hips. "I think my record speaks for itself."

Akuno did show a tendency towards trying to understand others, and she knew some fancy enough words and talking tricks. Whether or not it ever worked out 'quite' right, and whether or not the Manfri were more or less suited to her style than a bunch of dwarves was another question. "There might come a day when there's someone who prefers my attempts at humor, empathy and more earnest diplomacy."

The little sorcerers tail whips back and forth erratically, as if punctuating her point. "I'm not saying that I need to be the one doing the talking today, but I won't be overlooked either, especially in one of the few ways I can help." There's probably more to unpack in that last sentence, but Akuno doesn't seem to be in the mood to explain further. "I'll support either of you, of course. Leadership and followership go hand in hand, and being a successful ruler is a lot about knowing what the people around you are capable of doing." She points her finger at 'Lil. "But don't sell me short yet! I've just begun to show you my true pow..."

Akuno's tirade is suddenly cut short, and her hands both stick straight up in the air. She slowly turns in a circle and pleads with 'Lil. "I felt a bug land in my hair!", she cries. "Please help?"

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Thursday September 10th, 2020 5:37:00 PM
"I've not made any potions yet but it it helps I can start. I'm inclined to agree they seem capable of making their own though!" Haemir listens to the exchange as he packs his rapier away again.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=30 ; d20+10=19 ;
Thursday September 10th, 2020 9:01:04 PM
Thorondir smiles as Akuno makes her speech.

"Wouldn't hurt to have a group leader, but I'm happy to continue to provide support and try and keep you alive. Akuno makes a good point, these folks might not be partial to the normal citified diplomacy. Not that your's is not dignified Akuno, it is just more heartfelt it seems."

Thorondir never picked up his metal objects, and leaves them where he had placed them previously.

"I'm going to spend some time with Aewen, I'll meet you at their camp."

Thorondir wildshapes into an eagle and he and Aewen fly in circles, looking for some prey if it shows itself.
Perception Thorondir 30
Perception Aewen 19

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday September 10th, 2020 9:57:43 PM
Caelywn nods at Lil's words. "I am sure either of us could do it. I am happy to, if that is what the group wishes. But whoever speaks, I know Domi will guide our words."

He also waits to see who the group thinks will be the best spokesperson.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 10th, 2020 11:19:27 PM
After hearing Caelwyns and Thorondir's suggestion of leader or speaker or whatever you want to call it, Bigby lifts a finger and says, "not it."

DM Steve -- Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+2, morning d20=10 d20=7
Thursday September 10th, 2020 11:59:39 PM
Unsure whether he should offer advice here, Mark explains, "I'm not saying you don't each say your piece, I'm saying he'll react better if it all tells the same story. Don't expect that courtly or direct much matter to this manfri, neither follows the old ways he likes. Rest of the taudo is pretty casual."

Joseph also tells 'Lil, "Fastgrow ointment ain't magic. It has its limits."

The guide takes the party through the grasses again. Make the DC 10 save again (fort or reflex) to avoid being cut by the grass. Bigby and Akuno are small, and don't need to make saving throws. Thorondir didn't take the path. Anyone who gets cut will be treated, but I need to know the results.

Once inside, the party learns that as Mark and Joseph predicted, they will have to make their case to the eldest. The rest of the village is prepared to help the Sentinels if he agrees. Although the eldest has heard from the woman they talked with, he will form his own judgement based on the request as it is presented to him. The manfri -- who seemed curious the day before -- seem just as curious now, but are more subdued about showing it.

The Sentinels may restate the case they made to she who acts as nominal leader, add to it, or rethink it entirely. Success this time around requires a DC 30 diplomacy check. Other players may aid in the check, but will have to have their characters speak. The first successfully aiding player adds 2 to the best roll; the second adds +1. Changing the proposal may adjust the DC a small amount.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+3=21 ;
Friday September 11th, 2020 2:35:00 AM
((Sol passes the Reflex save))

Sol remains quiet, when asked by Haemir if he's okay, he simply nods.

"I am not sure yet..."

He remains silent the rest of the trip, and even during the process of deciding on a temporary or defacto "leader" he says little, which is certainly very unusual for his happy go lucky, smiley self.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+9=14 ; d20+6=13 ;
Friday September 11th, 2020 6:38:28 AM
Grindar's save 14
Llew's save 13

Grindar isn't keen on adopting a leader, even a temporary one. He feels that such a distinction puts one above the others, which is something he doesn't see as something that should be in their pack/family. He does agree that assigning a main spokes person based on that person's skill in diplomacy is prudent, with the rest of the party backing that person up, but that isn't the same as a de facto leader. To him it's no different than him taking point while traveling, or leading the charge into battle, it is all about ones skill set, and not about authority. As such, Grindar suggests assigning the role of spokes person to Caelwyn as he has the highest Diplomacy of the three charismatic pack mates. (Caelwyn 11, Lil 10, Akuno 9)

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14 d20+5=7 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+5=22 ;
Friday September 11th, 2020 11:49:14 AM
Haemir tries to fathom why Sol seems distracted, but concludes such matters are beyond his ken. (Sense Motive:7). He decides the wizard will speak his mind when ready and accords him distance with a gentle, reassuring pat on his shoulder.

After some thinking Haemir speaks up "I don't think we should be discussing leadership right now. It seems to be distracting us! The task ahead is what we say to the Manfri not who leads us in combat or during negotiations. Let's work with the strengths we have. Personally, Akuno, you masterfully put your case forward and I believe you are right. There may well be a time for your style of negotiation. Lil, speaks her mind and Caelwyn despite his eloquent touch maybe lacks a certain confidence in what to offer?! Never-the-less they were with us from the start and where privy to the Dukes accords. For my part I will assist.".

As the group passes through the grass Haemir yet again manages to twist around the sharp bits (Reflex:17).

As the group meets the Manfri Haemir stares at each member of the party. In his mind he focuses on them (including himself) until only he sees a slight gold aura around them. 'may Ma'ab guide you' he thinks to himself.

He really has no intent to say much, but something shifts inside him and before he realises it he is speaking. Maybe a sentence of two in he realises - his eyes widen and he looks slightly surprised. But it's like something has built up inside and he just keeps going... Feeling that stopping now will just make matters worse!

"Greetings good Sir" Haemir says with a bow. "We are here on behalf of New Rattledam to talk about opening relations with the Manfri. We have already learned that there is a lot we need to know about staying alive in Sargrass and would like to learn from you about the plains and how to weave. We humbly ask for your help. It would be best to learn from the masters!

With your blessing we are intending to rebuild Rattledam. This would make us neighbours. In times of strife or conflict we would help defend the Sargrass and our neighbours" he says gesturing to the Manfri with a slight bow. "We can offer a wide range of skills and can handle ourselves in most situations. We have merchants, farmers, sailors and can offer, once we have built some, training and perhaps even one of or druid-wood-ships you may have heard about? Using these boats we can travel quickly to assist with healing and such! Through magic we can provide we can create fast ways that our villages may speak with each other and can provide new ways to help grow food.

I am here personally because Queen Ma'ab willed it, I believe she helped some people survive the catastrophe that beset the Sargrass by saving some of the people here. I am also here because something within Sargrass itself - saved my life not to long ago. I was no where near this place. In fact I was sailing across the sea and when my ship was smashed by a magical storm I think one of the immortal powers of the Sargrass Plains saved me, gave me powers and bought me here. I am yet to discover the purpose. If I am to die here defending the Sargrass then such is my fate. If I am to do some good here and make the lives of those who live here better then that is the will of the plains " looking like he is about to stop - he adds after some soul searching. "I am here because I love Sargrass. Just like the strange plants that birth the young here, I too have been -'reborn' here. Because a dream once said 'that in the newness of time would strangers see (y)our ways and understand them' Because we wish to celebrate the double full moon of Kerracles and Wardd and make it sacred to us as well as the Manfri peoples. Because the Sargrass reacts to danger and transmits emotions to the native creatures that belong to it. I wish to understand - to hear it. To defend it from the mutations! Because the Manfri Seer Mahyawu saw things in mine and my colleague's futures here!" He allows it to sink in before finishing.
"I, for my part, will defend the Manfri with everything I have if you teach us wise one"! (Diplomacy:24 - including bonus to self below).

(OOC: each party member may add +2 to their diplomacy check or to the first skill check they make during the conversation with the Manfri leader if someone else does the speech then make mine a support one to assist them!)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+10=21 ;
Friday September 11th, 2020 3:19:32 PM
'Lil realizes Akuno's not wrong, and there may be a time when her courtly knowledge may come in handy. She picks the bug out of her hair and flicks it to Aewen if (s)he's around.

She's surprised when Haemir starts talking. She don't remember him saying anything like this before. This boy's been through something. He's good, though. 'Lil thinks he nailed it, but guesses that remains to be seen.

"We may not all share his personal connection to the Sargrass, but we're all ready to protect our new home and the folks what live here."

Diplomacy aid other: 21

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+2=4 ;
Friday September 11th, 2020 4:43:28 PM
Grindar realizee he has nothing to add so keeps his mouth shut (diplomacy 4)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Friday September 11th, 2020 6:28:59 PM
Bigby recognizes diplomacy skill when he sees it and decides to emulate Grindars skill by keeping his mouth shut and nodding the head.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday September 11th, 2020 7:05:05 PM
Aewen sits upon Thorondir's shoulder, and she swallows down the bug that Lil flips towards her. Silently, they preen one another as the group negotiates.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday September 11th, 2020 11:40:00 PM
Like Lil, Caelwyn watches in surprise as Haemir speaks. He had not been expecting this outburst, but as he listens he feels a dramatic openness in Haemir's words. This might be worth more than all the eloquent promises he could have given. Feeling that more words would be superfluous, he remains silent and waits for the Manfri's response.

DM Steve -- Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+2, morning d20+5=8 ; d20+8=22 ; d20+2=6 ; d20+2=15 ;
Saturday September 12th, 2020 1:23:44 PM
Seeing most of the Sentinels watch in silence, Mark and Joseph chime in. "Sir, you have dealt with the monks at the Stone Temple before, and are on peaceful terms with them. They are helping with this enterprise. These people are trying to build similar relationships for their new community."

"You speak pretty words, young elf, but you fail to convince me," the gray-haired old manfri says at the end of it all. "I do not know the people of New Rattledam, or your authority to speak for them. They are not proven, and they are outsiders. Wisdom counsels that we wait and see if you are good neighbors before committing ourselves to your aid." He pauses before continuing. "However, your speech has also touched us. You deserve some reminder, some promise that in time this friendship you seek may flourish. Please dine with us while this is arranged." The eldest manfri speaks to others in their tongue, and the party is escorted to another hut -- one that is large and empty.

She who acts as nominal leader arrives shortly after the Sentinels do, and offers her consolation. Perhaps they will try again. Shortly thereafter, a child brings in items for Haemir and 'Lil.

Haemir and 'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {You each receive an implement that looks much like the writing end of a quill pen. It is made from some sort of reed. With it is a stoppered vial, also made from reed.}

The manfri woman engages the party in conversation until the meal is ready. It is not exactly a feast, being much the same as the fare the party had the previous day, but it is attended by a majority of the taudo. The eldest does not attend.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Saturday September 12th, 2020 2:53:54 PM

Akuno watches Haemir talk, and is immediately surprised. When its time for the community dinner, Akuno sits by him. "I didn't think a guy birthed from a slime pod would be silver tongued. You are one interesting character!" She stares at him for for a second or two. "The things you said, are they true? Do you think Maab really wanted you here?" She pulls a little pair of sticks from her pocket and starts picking through her food with them. "It would be pretty great to have that much direction in life. All I know is one day I started getting powers that made my life -waaaaay- easier. Trying to understand it brought me here. Everyone else here either trained in the military or bargained with a god or at least went to school to get where they are. I went to bed after reading a storybook on princesses and woke up with invisible servants and the ability to change the temperature so I didn't get too hot and sweaty."

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Sunday September 13th, 2020 1:51:11 PM
Haemir simply nods to the Manfri elder when he rejects the proposal.
'Hmmm well we tried for the shortcut. Guess we will have to do this the longer way' he thinks. Even more determined now to crack open the secrets of the grass... He seems a little perplexed when half a quill-pen is given to the ex-professor but thanks the lad and pockets it. 'Are they telling me I should go back to teaching'?

At the meal when Akuno sits near him and asks him about Ma'ab he replies "Obviously not that silver tongued but I do believe Queen Ma'ab and Something else bought me here. I dreamt of her in the form of a silver dragon". He listens to Akuno's story "Wow that must have been some book! You know? That temperature spell is very handy! It saved me from hyperthermia when my ship capsized".

Tucking in to the food he ponders Akuno's words about what he is supposed to do here now. What any of them are to do!? He can't help but feel his spontaneous outburst didn't help. Then maybe the Manfri are right. Time will tell...

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday September 13th, 2020 10:21:17 PM
Caelwyn is disappointed by the outcome, but not overly surprised. "I honestly don't blame them...we are unknown to them, and it makes sense that they would want to see if we are trustworthy before committing to a real friendship. If we can prove this fairly quickly, maybe we can acquire their help before too long."

He doesn't feel like he could have done much better than Haemir, but he can't help but feel a bit irritated at the elf for breaking ranks like that. Ah well. It will do no good to be angry now.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday September 14th, 2020 6:56:20 AM
Grindar is frustrated by the outcome, in truth he dislikes all the diplomacy stuff, it just isn't his comfort zone. He is also beginning to think that Manfri are a rather fickle people, as both groups he has met have been less than helpful, when their help was really needed most. and he has little desire to stay any longer than needed. He keeps to himself, as he isn't in the best of moods, and he barely touches his food.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday September 14th, 2020 11:57:31 AM
"Well now, it seems we are to be on our way soon. Do any require healing before we go?"

Thorondir eats lightly and hopes to soon hunt with Aewen so she may eat as well.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday September 14th, 2020 12:47:48 PM
"what you guys get there?" Bigby directed his question towards Haemir and 'Lil. When the meal is ready, Bigby will eat.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Monday September 14th, 2020 2:47:43 PM
'Lil seems to be the only one who thinks this was a win.

"Come on dudes. That was the best result we could realistically hope for! If I was in that guy's place I'd have made the same call. If we're really as decent and worthy as we say we are, then this relationship with the Manfri will get better." She also wonders why Mark and Joseph chimed in like that after specifically sayin' let one dude talk.

She takes a knee as the little Manfri child gives her this...thing. She starts to ask what it is, but remembers they don't speak their language. She smile without showing teeth and accepts it. When they're alone again, she turns to her dudes and show them.

"Anyone know what this thing is? We supposed to sign something?" She checks the vial, seeing if something is in it. She has a thought pop into her head: maybe they're supposed to bleed in this thing so they signed in blood? That's hardcore if it's true.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday September 14th, 2020 6:12:10 PM
Sol is a bit taken aback by Haemir's ability to speak, as if he wasn't quite expecting it, but he's happy with the outcome, he seems a little perkier now, but still more subdued than normal.

DM Steve -- Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+2, morning
Monday September 14th, 2020 8:12:54 PM
In response to her question about what she received, the manfri tell 'Lil that it is a pen. They also say the choice of gift was intended to honor the speaker.

'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {There is something sloshing in the vial. Perhaps an ounce or so's worth.}

The meal ends, and conversation continues -- being translated by a few of the manfri to the rest of the taudo -- until Joseph indicates it might be polite to leave now. It still takes a bit to get the services of a guide and escort back to the campsite.

When the group is alone, Joseph asks, "Sounded like you're planning on leaving now. Seems to me they said you could stay and try again. We'll support you either way. Don't expect it will get easier unless you can show some reason for them to take your word for things." Mark adds, "If you're worried about going back empty-handed, we can make a detour to see some harvester weavers. Or we can try again here. Manfri weaving is considered the best."

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Monday September 14th, 2020 9:00:41 PM
Haemir shows the Sentinels the quill and examines the ink and bottle seeing if they fit together or he dips one in the other. Out of curiosity he detects magic and then resumes "I must confess when the Manfri said he would wait and see if we are good neighbours, I wasn't left with the impression he meant 5 heartbeats! I guessed he meant more like months, years even... " .

After a while of twisting and turning the quill: "I kind of feel bad for not gifting them something back. Maybe good neighbours give gifts in return?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday September 14th, 2020 11:10:51 PM
Caelwyn thinks. "It's clear that the Sargarass remains a dangerous place...we have seen attacks from mutation blooms, etc...maybe if we explain some of those dangers more clearly they will appreciate the offer of our friendship and help more."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 6:45:00 AM
Grindar personally wants nothing more to do with the Manfri, but keeps his thoughts on that to himself. he does say, "Well if we can't get help from the Manfri I guess we can ask the Harvesters."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 11:32:55 AM
"What would we even say to them? Pretty please? I don't think telling the Manfri, probably the most famous of the Sargrass' folks, how dangerous this place is will make us any friends. That's like tellin' a mouse they should really be careful around cats.

"They's right about not having a reason to trust us. I think long term we ought to show'em we can be trusted rather than see if we can say the right words. A bond that can be formed easily with the right words can be broken just as easily with the wrong ones."

'Lil looks around for something to write on, wanting to test her pen. "In the meantime, let's go meet the Harvesters."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 1:38:42 PM
"not sure what we can figure out immediately with the Manfri. Feels like banging head against something." Bigby thinks about banging his head as a way of fighting in close combat. Could be effective but they'd have to be the same height. So maybe not. "ok so whats the deal with the pen things? I kind of feel like we need to figure that out. It just seems weird to get that as a gift and not know why or figure it out before we move on. If that doesn't work then sure lets go to the harvesters."

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14 d20+9=16 ;
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 3:27:31 PM
Hearing Bigby's suggestion Haemir applies a tiny bit of ink grabs some parchment and scribbles...
(Knowledge Arcana:16)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=3 ; d20=4 ; d20+2=6 ;
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 6:40:32 PM

First, Akuno tries to help with magical identification.

Spellcraft: 9. Fail
Know Arcane: 9 Fail.

Akuno frowns. "I gave them the greatest gift of all. Fish. FISH. Out here where they can't get any normally. I think the pen is a nice gesture. If we think we should reciprocate, please allow me!" And so the pen and ink continues it's journey.

Akuno works hard over a piece of parchment, for about a good ten minutes. From time to time, her little tongue sticks out while she works. She casts the odd prestidigitation spell, making subtle changes to the hue of the ink. Sometimes its a dark pink, others its a dark blue. Finally, she holds up a picture. "When I was little, my parents.. I mean.. the humans who raised me, once gave me some colored inks. I wanted to repay them, but they said that me using them was good enough."

She holds up a picture of a pink salmon in a blue basin of water that she is obviously proud of. Its hardly an award winner, with a few smudges and scribbles here and there. But she offers it up proudly. "Here, a gift!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 6:52:05 PM
"I offered healing services, but apparently they didn't need them. I got no response. We have nothing they need, and I think we can make the ships without them. I can shape the wood, and we can use animal skins for the sails. While it would be nice to have woven grass, it isn't necessary I don't think. I say we move on, and perhaps in time they will find us useful. Then, perhaps we could use their services."

Thorondir isn't too keen on begging for help, and is ready to move on.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 11:16:55 PM
Caelwyn turns to Mark and Joseph. "What is the Manfri stance on religious belief?"

DM Steve -- Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+3, morning
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 11:25:41 PM
Some of the Sentinels try out the new pens, others set up for the evening. Akuno has an easier time using the pen than Haemir, but then her hands are closer to the manfri's than the elf's are. Neither the pens nor the ink appears to be magic.

In the morning, after an uneventful night, it looks like the majority favors visiting the harvesters. Mark and Joseph lead the way -- or, rather, allow Grindar to take the lead and keep him headed the right way.

Haemir was not with the group the last time marching order was set. Let me know the order and any precautions the party takes.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+12=22 ;
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 2:28:54 AM
Sol, after a little while snaps out of his fugue completely and tries to identify this pens himself.

((Knowledge Arcana - 22))

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=24 ; d20+6=26 ;
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 6:51:58 AM
Grindar is glad to be back on the move. He is in his element there, but he knows, if they are to convince the harvesters to help, diplomacy will once again be required, and he will once again be out of his element. He tries not to think about that for the moment, as he keeps his mind on the task ahead, keeping his friends appraised of any threats ahead.

Grindar's perception 24
Llew's perception 26

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 12:42:54 PM
"Looks like we've got a consensus that we're moving on. We should say a proper goodbye to our hosts, though. Let'em know we respect their answer and hope to be able to show'em that we're decent folk worth workin' with. Ya know?" She pokes Haemir. "You wanna do the talking again? Did a bang up job last time."

'Lil puts the pen somewhere safe. It was a gift; wouldn't be right not to treat it with some respect.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 26/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14 d20+1=21 ; d20+4=18 ;
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 2:57:04 PM
Haemir has a proud grin as Akuno grabs the pen like an exuberant youngster and patiently watches her work. When finished he holds it up and with an even bigger grin: "It's perfect dude!" before handing the parchment to one of the Manfri and carefully wrapping the pen/ink away.

"You gave us a pen to remember you and we used it to give you a picture of a fish - something to remember us by!" he doesn't mind that the Manfri probably doesn't understand a word. With two hopes he turns away - firstly that it wasn't some kind of magical ink destined to save the world & secondly - to see the drawing hanging somewhere on his return, just to see Akuno's smile.

As the group gathers to set off he is surprised at Lil's suggestion & humbly approaches the Manfri. Not far from the hut he prays to the weaver-Sar (actually the first time he ever has spoken directly) "By your grace I am here - if this is to be our path Weaver-Sar give the Manfri a sign and grant this audience a blessing that helps them see!"

(Diplomacy:28 (nat 20) - but excuse the +1 - should be +6/+2 for +8 total).

"Wise leader we are learning everyday to let the space between where we are now and where we want to be inspire us. We will be patient & allow you to see. Meanwhile the gift you gave us was received with open hearts and has already returned fruit to your village" 'well technically fish'' he thinks "May I grant you these in return"?

He places three items down.
A hat weaved by Tishe' (who made a crazy high weave roll (30+ if I remember correct) in the inn & gave Haemir a sargrass weaved hat).
An anti-toxin vial and a folding travel stool (made from oak & sail-cloth which was a yule-tide gift) for an extra boss-man seat.

And if nothing happens with a bow to the village he walks away from that chapter of his life.
(Reflex:18 - dodging sharp grass)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 3:17:38 PM

Akuno waves a happy goodbye to the Manfri, and is only a little bummed that they didn't say anything at all about her fish. It wasn't perfect, but it wasn't something to put in the trash bin either. The things Haemir says and does are all super nice. "T-t-hanks Haemir.", she mumbles. She eyes him for awhile, as if making up her mind about something, before she starts packing up to head out with everyone else.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 5:28:58 PM
Bigby is happy to move along with the party. Bigby thinks to himself the claws are mightier than the pen anyhow.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=30 ; d20+10=25 ;
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 7:03:17 PM
Glad to be on his way, Thorondir wildshapes into an eagle and joins Aewen for a quick hunt while everyone gets ready. Hopefully, upon successful completion of their hunt, Thorondir (as an eagle) and Aewen eat their fill. When the group starts moving, they will fly high above the group in circles looking for any threats.

Perception Thorondir 30
Perception Aewen 25

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=20 ;
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 10:21:58 PM
Caelwyn takes up his place at the end of the column, watching out for any danger.

Perception 20

DM Steve -- Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+3, late morning d20+12=25 ; d20=9 ; d20=14 ; d4+4=7 ;
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 11:13:42 PM
After saying goodbyes to the manfri, and receiving wishes of success, the Sentinels head out. The day is like most days here in the grass, dry and rapidly becoming hot. The grasses are above the heads of everyone in the party, preventing any comforting breezes from reaching them. and going is slow.

The Sentinels fall into the rhythm of travelling through the grass. Thorondir's wild shape is nearing the end of its duration. Akuno is the only one not feeling the heat.

The group has made steady progress in the direction Mark and Joseph say to go when there is an unexpected movement in the grass. It appears to be movement by -- well, the layer of grass pieces that litter this land the way leaves litter a forest. Whatever it is, the group is upon it before you notice it.

Thorondir, Aewen, and Llew notice the movement in time to react, although Thorondir and Aewen are 70' away above it all. The movement appears to be directed towards Grindar and sudden enough to be threatening, although they're still not sure what they've seen.

Map

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday September 17th, 2020 2:39:10 AM
Sol kind of jumps at the movement, unsure what it is and what is happening, and is not ready to react right now.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+2=10 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+2=18 ; d6+1=4 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=4 ;
Thursday September 17th, 2020 6:55:51 AM
Llew lets out a roar, as he senses danger, which alerts Grindar to said danger, who in turn warns everyone that danger is a foot. Llew takes a 5ft step in front of Grindar (10,C)and attacks whatever it is that may harm his master.

Bite hits AC 10 for 4 damage
Left Claw hits AC 16 for 2 damage
Right Claw hits AC 18 for 4 damage

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Thursday September 17th, 2020 7:37:03 AM
Haemir plods on sweating...

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Thursday September 17th, 2020 7:39:33 AM
If the shout allows him to be will prepare to cast. If something leaps out and attacks he casts Lesser Confusion

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+6=23 ; d20+6=24 ; d8+4=5 ; d8+4=12 ; d20+6=15 ; d8+3=6 ;
Thursday September 17th, 2020 12:32:02 PM
What the? Is the grass attacking them? She hopes not, seein' as how it would be real hard to stab blades of grass.

She pulls Maya out and takes a 5' step forward before stabbin' forward into whatever this is. She hopes its something what warrants stabbing.

Hit AC 23 for 5 damage.

'Lil's ready to keep stabbin if this thing gives her an opening.

***

Move: 5' step
Standard: Attack whatever this is, hitting AC 23 for 5 damage

If her target IS in square C9 and moves, 'Lil gets an AoO.

Hit AC 24 for 12 damage.
Hit AC 15 for 6 damage (combat reflexes)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=24 ;
Thursday September 17th, 2020 4:14:06 PM
Here we go again Bigby thought to himself. The land is trying to kill us again. Bigby waits to see what the enemy is. perception 24.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday September 17th, 2020 9:18:52 PM
Thorondir casts entangle so that it just misses Grindar.
OOC: I’m headed out backpacking in Idaho and I won’t have the ability to post until Tuesday. Will someone take over Thorondir?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday September 17th, 2020 11:24:33 PM
(I got ya Kelly. Have fun in the Sar... I mean Idaho)

Akuno is happily drolling on and on in Bigby's ears about suits and dresses. ".. And THAT one is risque because its not made to button above the second button! Can you believe it?" When Bigby stiffens, she frowns. "Ney ney, are you listening to me? You are the only male beastfolk I know! I can't.. wait. Whats that?"

Akuno watches her friends and colleagues start stabbing grass. "Are you guys trying to fool me or something? Oh ho ho, stupid Akuno Neko, watch out for the grass monster! Hey guys, lets watch her panic!" She huffs, ready to move on, until Thorondir starts casting spells at it. "Ney! 'Lil! Kill it already. Stop messing around!" Her voice is a bit distressed, like a kid wanting a mean game to be over. She touches 'Lil on the back and gives her a small shove forward. 'Lil feels herself.. inspired..by Akunos command, or something like that.

Touch of Destiny (Sp): At 1st level, you can touch a creature as a standard action, giving it an insight bonus on attack rolls, skill checks, ability checks, and saving throws equal to ( 2) for 1 round. You can use this ability a number of times per day equal to 3 + your Charisma modifier.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday September 17th, 2020 11:30:03 PM
Caelwyn moves forward, ready to attack if anything shows itself. Here we go again, he thinks...

DM Steve -- Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+3, late morning d20+3=23 ; d20+3=13 ; 2d3+1=6 ; d20+5=16 ;
Friday September 18th, 2020 12:47:00 AM
Llew rips into whatever is moving and Thorondir casts an entagle on the area while a pile of decomposing dead grasses flows over to Grindar.

The grasses flow through the entangled area, but Llew must make a DC 14 reflex save to avoid being caught by the effect. The small blob of grasses slams into Grindar, inflicting 6 points of damage, and clings to his leg.

Meanwhile, the remainder of the party realizes what is happening and is able to react.

'Lil and Akuno can use their stated actions and rolls, or can change plans based on the description above. Everyone can act now.

Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {I should have told you this last round. Magic was used in the construction of the pens, but they are not magical.}

====
Grass Ooze: 10 damage

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=15 ; d20+3=10 ; d3=3 ;
Friday September 18th, 2020 2:32:20 AM
Sol, immediately realising they are under attack, looks around for others assailants beyond the one they can see.

((Perception 15))

If he spots another creature trying to attack, he will cast Ray of Frost on the new creature, if he cannot find another creature, he will cast it on the one attacking Grindar.

10 to hit
3 damage

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+6=16 ; d20+2=20 ; d20+2=10 ; d20+2=8 ; d6+1=6 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=2 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=21 ; d8+5=11 ; d8+5=11 ;
Friday September 18th, 2020 6:50:32 AM
Llew's reflex 16 pass

Llew lashes out again at the grass ooze, as Grindar offers the ooze both ends of his ax.

Llew
Bite hits AC 16 for 6 damage
Claw hits AC 10 for 2 damage
Claw hits AC 8 for 2 damage

Grindar
Main hits AC 13 for 11 damage
Off-hand hits AC 21 for 11 damage

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+9=19 ;
Friday September 18th, 2020 12:30:34 PM
-----------------Posting for Thorondir---------------------

"Aewen, stay back! I don't trust that you can hurt it." Realizing that the entanglement spell didn't do much, he wants to summon some help. First though, he has to not move.

Fly Check: 19 vs DC 15. Pass.

Hovering in place, he begins summoning a fire elemental to try and counter the grass blob.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+6=13 ; d3=2 ;
Friday September 18th, 2020 12:42:41 PM

(Go ahead and keep that as my action for last round. Lil's got a +2 bonus on her attacks.)

Akuno herself still isn't really sure what to make of the little blob of grasses. She also isn't quite sure what to make of her magic with 'Lil. She felt something when she gave 'Lil a boost. That was a first. She's still pondering what it means when she sees the ooze crawl up Grindars leg.

"Oh shoot.", she grumbles. She watches Sol try to freeze it off, and figures she will try the same with the acid spell she knows.

Hit touch AC 9 for 2 acid damage.(Akuno doesn't have point blank shot, so I assume she's -4. If not, its good vs touch ac 13)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d6=4 ; d6=6 ;
Friday September 18th, 2020 3:56:45 PM
Oh, 'Lil feels somethin' about being shoved at the monster. That's for sure. Oddly enough, she does feel inspired to do better. That's weird.

If there's a big enough blob on Grindar's leg to stab, she uses her roll from last round to stab it.

Hit AC 25 for 5 damage. That's including Akuno's bonus.

Her options are a lot more limited if she's not able to attack it. She'll channel energy, hoping to keep Grindar's leg from getting melted off. It will heal 10 damage.

Attacks of Opportunity, should they arise:
Hit AC 26 for 12 damage.
Hit AC 17 for 6 damage (combat reflexes)

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Friday September 18th, 2020 8:29:21 PM
For a second Haemir thinks he can smell it. Undead .. they have a certain stink. He waits till he is sure and everyone has acted and casts Command Undead
"Stay still and do no one harm" he says (non-intelligent undead gain no Sv. / intelligent have a Will DC:19).
To the Sentinels he says "wait.. Let me see if I can command it... but if it tries to attack kill it!" he says fixing it with his gaze and muttering.

DM Steve -- After Leaving the Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+3, late morning d6=1 ;
Saturday September 19th, 2020 9:38:48 AM
Between Llew, Grindar, Sol, 'Lil, and Akuno raining attacks on it, the blob of grasses quickly loses all cohesion. It is no longer a blob.

Haemir tries to control the blob, but finds nothing undead to connect to. Thorondir begins a spell.

Bigby and Caelwyn move to help Grindar, but aren't sure what to do. Although the grass blob is no longer a blob, it is still on Grindar. It has flowed over him like a second skin, and any attacks made on it may hurt him as well.

Grindar takes 1 point of damage from the grass swarm. Grindar must make a fort save vs. DC 11 or become nauseated.

=====
Grass ooze --> Grass swarm, no apparent damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday September 21st, 2020 12:36:38 AM
Caelwyn is nonplussed by this strange enemy. He attempts to brush the blob off with the haft of his trident, hoping he can then attack it without hurting Grindar.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Monday September 21st, 2020 6:13:28 AM
Haemir waves his hands around and mutters and a glowing transparent Spectral Hand appears near Grindar.
"I can protect Grindar against fire if anyone has a torch...? Maybe we can burn them" he says as he prepares to cast another spell through the hand.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 22/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+5=8 ;
Monday September 21st, 2020 6:14:57 AM
Grindar fails his fort save, and begins to look a little more green then normal. he drops Bwyell, and tries ripping the grass swarm off him with his hands.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Monday September 21st, 2020 11:46:03 AM
'Lil ain't got no bright ideas, but Haemir may be onto something. "I ain't got no fire beyond lighting a torch. Sol, you got anything?"

She holds her action, ready to heal up Grindar if he needs it.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=27 ; d6+4=6 ;
Monday September 21st, 2020 1:14:27 PM
Bigby concentrates and casts produce flame and touches the green on Grindar. "eh, this may sting a little bit." attack 27(nat 20) dmg: (6x2) 12dmg. Bigby strikes with the flame hand and it hits harder than he imagined it would.

ooc: sorry for the nat 20 Grindar

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Monday September 21st, 2020 2:52:30 PM
Haemir nearly soils himself in shock when he sees Bigby enthusiastically following his lead .. If somewhat premature... "Arrrrgh" he says almost sounding like a pirate.
'Hang in there Grin... Oh crap that looks like it hurts' he thinks.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+3=23 ; d20+3=21 ; d3=3 ; d3=3 ;
Monday September 21st, 2020 6:06:55 PM
Sol frowns...

"I am afraid not, nothing that is fire based at least... I am sorry..."

He still tries to cast Ray of Frost at the swarm. He knows it won't be very effective but it's all he has at this point.

((Nat 20, 21 to confirm, 3 damage, plus a further 3 if the crit is successful))

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday September 21st, 2020 9:35:54 PM
ooc: do you have to confirm a crit roll?

DM Steve -- After Leaving the Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+3, late morning
Monday September 21st, 2020 10:41:39 PM
Caelwyn attempts to gently brush the grassy attacker off of Grindar, without much success. Meanwhile Grindar clearly shows some distress. Haemir starts discussing a plan to remove the things, with 'Lil volunteering to help, when Bigby and Sol move ahead before everyone else is ready.

Between the burning and the freezing, the grass swarm disappears. Where the grass was, a number of tiny crystals form and fall. However, Grindar also takes damage.

Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {Grindar takes 14 points damage from the enthusiastic efforts of his fellows to protect him. The nausea passes after a few minutes of rest.}

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday September 21st, 2020 11:07:56 PM
Caelwyn hurries forward to check on Grindar. "By Domi, this land never ceases to amaze me with it's desire to kill us all...are you alright?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d8=3 ; d8=2 ; d6=5 ; d6=3 ;
Monday September 21st, 2020 11:09:10 PM
'Lil immediately heals Grindar soon as he's hurt, casting cure moderate wounds to restore 9 hp.

"Still a little charred there, love. Hold on a sec." Once she's sure the ooze is really dead, she'll channel positive energy, healing another 8 hp.

"If we had some time, probably could'a come up with a better plan then that." She puts a hand on Grindar's shoulder and rubs his back a bit till he's done barfin'.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 9:28:22 AM
Seeing Grindar well attended Haemir helps him up when he's finished recovering.
"You ok brother"?

"Aye Caelwyn. It does seem this place is still testing us! Ok so when this happens again... Is fire the best plan? Seems a fair bit of ice came out. I will happily protect whoever gets swarmed from flame or ice or something else if you prefer?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 4:28:25 PM
Bigby looks up to Grindar and apologizes without speaking. But to add to good measure he speaks the words, "sorry." There. Bigby shared enough feelings for the day.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 5:24:55 PM
Grindar grimaces in pain as his friends burn the swarm off him, though he refuses to cry out and show weakness. He does let's out a audible sigh of relief as Lil's healing power washes over him though. He tries to thank his friends, but finds himself gagging and vomiting instead. He is visibly touched by Lil's comforting hand as he empties the contents of his stomach in the grass. After the nausea passes, he takes a huge drink from his waterskin and the says, "Thanks guys for getting that thing off me, and as always thanks sister for the healing. I'm beginning to think I'm you number one patient, I really need to figure a way to boost my armor, so your not always patching me up! Sol or Akuno, could one you use your magic to clean me up a bit, I think I got some breakfast on myself, and it don't smell pretty."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 5:51:36 PM
Sol chuckles, and with a few simple gestures and a couple of words, casts Prestidigitation on Grindar to clean him up.

"Yes... well... I could perhaps cast Mage Armour on you as required... it lasts a fair while, but I am not certain if it would be more beneficial for another in our party? Perhaps one who has no armour... besides I am not certain the spell would help given that you already have armour on my friend."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 10:49:29 PM

Akuno ponders whether or not she needs the Mage Armor spell. She has a few scrolls of the spell already. "Maybe the animals?, she suggests.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 10:50:14 PM
-----------Post for Thorondir-----------------

Thorondir considers his bird and Llew. "Without barding, they are vulnerable. Aewen being protected would bring me a bit of peace of mind."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 11:00:13 PM
Caelwyn nods at Haemir's words. "Aye, that's a good idea - it seems elemental attacks are the best way to deal with these things, and protecting ourselves from the effects is sensible."

DM Steve -- After Leaving the Manfri Taudo -- Module 4, day ??+3, late morning
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 12:02:49 AM
When it's clear that Grindar is recovering well, Joseph asks if the group wants to rest here or move on. Mark asks if they want those crystals. Eventually they regroup and head on toward the Harvester village. The rest of the trip seems humdrum in comparison.

The Harvester "village" turns out to be more of a camp. It is clearly less permanent than Rattledam, the village at the Stone Temple, or the manfri taudo. The Sentinels arrive at a cluster of tents, surrounded by a ring of dozens of bulbgrass plants. The people there are mostly human, with few members of other races. Aside from favoring a weapon like a club with a row of obsidian flakes up and down its length, they look much like the people living around the monks. With Joseph and Mark making introductions, the Sentinels are welcomed to the village. Almost everyone seems to speak Common, although they clearly have their own language as well.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 2:17:24 PM
Haemir will collect some crystals and at the camp - introduce himself

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 5:20:17 PM
'Lil makes sure her weapons are stowed as she strolls into the camp.

She keeps things simple. "Hi everyone, I'm 'Lil. We're hopin' to make introductions and relations with folks in the Sargrass. Not sure how well known this is, but we're rebuildin' Rattledam. There's a bunch of survival skills we need learning if we're going to make it here.

"We got sent out to try and make friends with folks who have them skills. Hopefully we can find some way to make that tenable for both of us." Her demeanor is real friendly-like.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20=18 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 5:31:05 PM
Grindar attempt to appraise the crystals (Appraise check 18) but falls short on his own. He says, [b]"I think I'm close to figuring out the value of these crystals, maybe with some help I can figure it out. (The DC for determining value of ordinary items is typically 20) He also casts Detect Magic on them.

At the camp, Grindar introduces himself as well. He was told Harvesters have the skills to turn giant beetle caprices into armor, and he wonders if any of these Harvesters have the skills to turn one of the two giant beetle caprices they own into armor that might offer better protection than his hide armor, perhaps a breastplate, or Scale Mail. As such he keeps his eyes peeled for a smith of sorts, though he stays with the group, until they have had a chance to share why they came. He also looks about to see if these harvesters are covered in piercings like Freakshow, or if Freakshow is one of a kind.

OOC... I know at one time it was established that they made Lamellar Armor, but since Lamellar isn't core, I was wondering if that could be changed to something we can use without special permission, and I figured it wouldn't be a stretch to cut an already convexed caprice into a convexed breastplate, and of course, Scale Mail would be the closest thing to Lemallar in core.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 5:59:57 PM
Sol introduces himself politely, but then immediately goes to investigate the Bulbgrass, trying to see if there appears to be a special way to grow it defensively like this, unless he is warned off by how people act towards him when he goes over to investigate.

If they seem happy to let him poke and figure it out he'll even ask a couple of questions about how to get it to grow safely.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 8:22:50 PM
Bigby comes in with the rest and nods and waves. "Nice clubs," Bigby says. Bigby awaits thier response to 'Lils introduction.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 8:41:28 PM
OOC: Thanks Ken

Thorondir has now changed back into his elf self, and walks into the camp with Aewen on his shoulder.
"I'm Thorondir, a druid charged with helping these folks. Aewen here is my friend, so don't consider eating her. In fact, she can help hunt food for you if you are in need."

Thorondir looks at Grindar's leg. "Sorry I wasn't much help back there, never seen anything like that. Next time I will be ready. I almost summoned a fire elemental, but the situation ended before I could bring it. I think that will help in the future. If anyone else has suggestions on how to handle the creeping grass I would be happy to hear it."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=19 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 10:27:35 PM
Caelwyn cautions Thorondir "While fire may have helped to remove the problem, it might have caused a far bigger disaster in the Sargrass itself...we would need to be very careful with that, to avoid causing a serious fire."

Caelwyn attempts to identify the leader of the Harvesters and initiate talks with them, if appropriate, about the weaving needed for the ship. "As my friends have said, we offer you our friendship, trade, and any other help we can provide in exchange for these services. The creation of these vessels, I think, would be of great value to all of us who live here."

Diplomacy 19

DM Steve -- Interlude in a Harvester Village -- Module 4
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 11:34:11 PM
Haemir and Grindar examine the crystals. They are small, 1/8 to 1/4 inch in diameter. Although Grindar can't be certain he thinks they must be worth a small amount each. However, at that size there are hundreds of them.

'Lil, Caelwyn, Bigby, Sol, and Thorondir introduce themselves to the Harvesters, then separate according to individual interests.

Caelwyn and 'Lil set about establishing some sort of deal with the Harvesters. The people are interested in news of Rattledam and of the ship being built. They seem quite willing to negotiate terms for their services to help build the boats. It becomes clear within a few hours that they have questions that the Sentinels can't answer, however. They will need details from the shipwrights on what is to be done.

Sol shows an interest in the bulbgrass surrounding the encampment. He learns that it is a fast-growing grass that is easily transported, but that there is skill involved in selecting and getting the most rapid growth out of the bulbs. The Harvesters only use it when they plan to stay in one place for at least three months.

Bigby shows an interest in the clubs carried by the Harvesters. Although he does not see the difference, they assure him that some of the weapons are clubs and others are swords. That is, some are made to slash and others to bludgeon.

Grindar asks about obtaining armor, and is told that they can indeed make armor from the giant beetle carapaces. A few options are described, which may be superior to Grindar's hide armor. If he wants to see them, he should return with the bazaar is held.

OOC: Some items unique to the Sargrass were written into the module and approved.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Thursday September 24th, 2020 9:30:53 AM
Bazaar? That piqued 'Lil's interest.

'Lil thinks back on the diplomatic meetings they had back at Rattledam before they left. She knows Harvesters were present at the meeting, but that don't mean these particular folks were aware or had a say in anything. She decides to be straight with them.

"We had a bunch of diplomatic meetings in New Rattledam before we got jumpy and had to go adventure again. Some folks what represented themselves as Harvesters were in on those talks. I realize that don't necessarily mean you fine folks were represented. I honestly ain't sure how close knit you different groups are out here in the grass." 'Lil ponders what to say next, but decides to just see how they respond first.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday September 24th, 2020 6:11:39 PM
Sol takes notes of the best ways to grow the bulbgrass, and keeps it in his diary, he hopes that they Sentinels can use it to protect Rattledam, as needed as he learned previously that it can help keep some of the dangers of the Sargrass at bay.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday September 24th, 2020 7:12:16 PM
The idea of the Bazaar sound beyond intriguing to Grindar, So he asks, "When will the next Bazaar be held, because it sounds amazing!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday September 24th, 2020 7:29:09 PM
Apart from the Sargrass being a very bizarre place, Thorondir isn't too keen on a Bazaar. "I guess we could come back and do some shopping during the Bazaar, but it is difficult enough already to carry all of my possessions. Perhaps I need a bag like Lil has, either that or be content with what I have. I hope there never comes a day when people seek possessions for their status alone, and neglect their needs and others in the process. I'm sure that will never happen though."

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Thursday September 24th, 2020 9:36:33 PM
Haemir joins Sol taking notes and drawing in his note book

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday September 24th, 2020 11:12:58 PM
Bigby asks more about the clubs and swords. "how did you guys make these?"

DM Steve -- Interlude in a Harvester Village -- Module 4
Friday September 25th, 2020 12:31:56 AM
The Harvesters seem to find 'Lil's notion that one village would be bound by the agreements made by another village amusing. But they will send someone to Stone Temple with the Sentinels to find out more, if that's what 'Lil and Caelwyn want.

Sol and Haemir learn a bit about growing bulbgrass. Bigby learns a bit about making clubs in the local fashion.

Grindar and Thorondir find out there will be a bazaar here in a couple of months. Several villages get together to trade with each other about once a year. Although a travelling group might manage to find more such meetings each year.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday September 25th, 2020 5:34:21 PM
Grindar is a little bummed out that the bazaar isn't going to be happening anytime soon, but he understands and makes a mental note to come back when the bazaar is held. He is glad that the harvesters are sending someone along to learn about the agreement of some of the other people in the Sargrass Plains. He would love to see a mass coalition of Plains dwellers all working together for a common goal, and maybe this will be another step in that direction.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14 d20+10=20 ; d20+5=12 ;
Friday September 25th, 2020 6:06:38 PM
Haemir quietly contemplates the shipbuilding side of things and thinks back to when the group built the small druid-wood boat before and weighs up if he would be able to guide the builders. He figures he spent enough time on ships to build one, it can't be that hard can it? He tells himself as he sketches copious notes in his book and stares occasionally up at the sky.

(knowledge engineering:20 (not nat)/prof-sailing:12 if needed?)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday September 25th, 2020 6:27:04 PM
"Well then, one or more of you can come to Rattledam with us and see what all this fuss is about. Then, perhaps we can come back and visit your bazaar? What items are unique to the bazaar, as opposed to the markets in town? I don't like to own things I can't carry, but perhaps a nice steel grass shirt or the like?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Friday September 25th, 2020 8:26:12 PM
"Are we going to Stone Temple next?" 'Lil wonders to herself. Sometimes she gets forgetful.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday September 25th, 2020 9:18:45 PM

This wasn't the first time Akuno had heard folks talk about steel grass. she had tried armor on once, and hated it. So instead, she tags along behind Haemir and takes great interest in his notebook. "I keep one too.", she offers. "But mine is full of dresses and clothes. It's not really useful to anyone but me. And maybe Bigby, if he lets me stuff him into a suit."

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Saturday September 26th, 2020 7:05:02 AM
Haemir looks up from his notes started when Akuno speaks. Smiling he passes her a second parchment & quill. "Why not design a dress made from grass? Pretty armor just how you like it"

DM Steve -- Interlude in a Harvester Village -- Module 4
Saturday September 26th, 2020 11:30:18 AM
'Lil wonders if the group is going back to the Stone Temple next. It's a good question. Thorondir seems to think that Rattledam should be their next destination. And there will always be work there that needs doing. Grindar wants to see the bazaar, which will happen where they are now, but not for a couple of months.

Haemir would like to help construct the ships. Akuno is more interested in fashion. Sadly, there does not seem to be any place in the Sargrass where fashion is given its due. The Harvesters and Manfri seem to have more resources for fashionable pursuits than the monks or the folks in Rattledam, though.

Bigby, Caelwyn, and Sol may have their own opinions about where to go next, as well. Or whether a canine in a tuxedo would be fashionable. No doubt that would give Sol lots of notes, though.

Joseph and Mark are ready to take a group of Harvesters the Stone Temple if the Sentinels have some other destination in mind.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday September 27th, 2020 11:07:46 PM
Caelwyn thinks it would be worthwhile to see this mission through and make sure the Harvesters reach their destination safely. We need their help, after all.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Monday September 28th, 2020 2:40:08 PM
'Lil agrees it would be good to get'em to Stone Temple if that's where they're going, but why are they going there in the first place?

"We came here to obtain skills we need to rebuild Rattledam, so why are we talking about leaving while two'a these Harvesters go up to Stone Temple? Seems like we ain't done what we've gone through all this to do."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday September 28th, 2020 4:01:52 PM
Bigby feels a little confused about what their purpose is anymore. He nods to 'Lils concern about obtaining skills. Seems like thats why they came out here. So far all they got was a pen and some ink and more people to accompany to somewhere else. Ah the Sargrass...leave for one thing and end up with ten more quests. Bigby just chuckles. He wasn't one to think too much on these things.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday September 28th, 2020 6:23:20 PM
Sol agrees that they need to see things through, however he was torn, he really wants to understand how to make the boats.

"We are not needed as an escort for the Harvesters, but they would I like to think, be safe with us along for the journey. However, learning how to grow Bulb grass and how to craft the boat could both be very useful skills in the longer term for helping Rattledam... also returning to Rattledam to try and help out there could be a good idea also. Why is it we are so useful but limited to only being in one place?"

Sol smirks clearly intending the last part to be a bit of a self deprecating joke.

"I am certain I would be happy to go anywhere, and I would hopefully be able to find a way to make myself useful, however my curiosity insists I learn about the boat and the bulbgrass... but I do not wish to make a decision for all of the Sentinels, it is not my place to do so."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday September 28th, 2020 6:25:39 PM
"Um guys, If you remember we set out of Stone Temple to try to convince the Manfri to help with the boats, with Rattledam help being a possible added perk. I think you have lost sight of our current mission, which is the construction of the boats.", Grindar reminds his friends, "So yes we should definitely head to Stone Temple First!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday September 28th, 2020 6:41:07 PM
"My mistake, I of course meant we go to the Stone Temple. This heat does strange things to ones mind. I'm ready to continue in the proper direction when all are ready."

Thorondir preens Aewen and finds a bit of time to go and hunt for a meal for the two of them. Thorondir eats while in eagle form, then flies back to the group and awaits the group.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Monday September 28th, 2020 7:18:06 PM
Haemir thrives on meeting new cultures, the amount of coasts he's sailed along he takes it all in his stride. He is friendly and helps out here and there with his presdigitation or simple labor. But he can't shrug a feeling and as for the headaches!? Haemir was also born of something water and here in the grass, today water was rare. Over the course of the day 'knowing' gives way to 'unsure' like high tide gives way to low and his head swims with glimpses of moments. These daydreams are of a battle, bravery, oaths, ents, stampedes, a corridor of death, royalty, high woldian, clovers and congruence. Blurring together yet each carrying different weight. A weight that cannot be processed, un-packed or reasoned with.

But then (((CrASh))) some crazy chick called reality stamps down and the dreams fade.
'The unity between our hearts and minds is taxed to process at such speed' he reasons noting that the day-dreams are coming more and more frequent. Pushing a palm against his forehead in vain hope the pressure will ease the pain the irony of the situation further reveals itself when it sinks in:
'Heck I haven't even had one ale'

---

Taking a seat quietly he watches each of the sentinels in turn: 'You have walked an incredible path... Just to get this far' he wants to say but sits quietly listening to each speak.

At a quiet moment his eyes shine slightly more sea-blue:
"The wood comes from the cosantóir na bhféarach, a singing Oak or druid tree named Genyielt who passed over" he falters staring at something unseen before gathering himself "bravely defending and so, out of courtesy of the old times Gargul passed Genyielt to Eberyon who laid the Ent-soul somewhere special. Genyielt now bends to the moonlight breeze within Queen Ma'ab's Vales of Twilight knowing peace ".

"I'm sorry, I mean to say..." ' oh crap I'm just letting more water in here - I can't even explain all of these crazy... Wait 207 people in Rattledam?', Haemir takes a deep breath breathing out slowly.
"Sorry, carry on... Don't mind me" turning his back on the party he takes out a pipe and fills it and begins to puff away.
'Maybe they won't notice me if I stand still like a tree' the 115 year old child tells himself.

After gathering himself: "Surely we must continue towards honouring that sacrifice by the fastest means possible?" he says before blowing smoke rings (away from everyone) contemplating what prestidigitation shapes he could make with the smoke. 'Perhaps a sailing ship? No of course that would be stupid'

DM Steve -- Interlude in a Harvester Village -- Module 4
Monday September 28th, 2020 11:26:09 PM
Caelwyn wants to make sure the Harvesters reach their destination safely. Grindar seconds the idea, pointing out that their trip to the Manfri was all about constructing the boats. Thorondir adds his support for returning to the Stone Temple.

'Lil questions whether to go to the Stone Temple. She seems to favor staying and looking for help for Rattledam. Bigby supports her, although a bit confusedly. The list of things to be done just seems to keep growing.

Sol wants to both work on the boat -- at the Stone Temple -- and learn about bulbgrass (and other useful things) here with the Harvesters.

Haemir is having a difficult time focusing his words, like something is intruding upon them as he speaks. He may even be in pain before he comes to himself and concludes, "Surely we must continue towards honoring that sacrifice" -- Genyielt's, maybe? at least, he mentioned Genyielt -- "by the fastest means possible?"

No matter where the Sentinels decide to go, they will have something to contribute. Only Akuno has voiced no opinion.

Mark and Joseph will take a day or two to resupply here, and will head back to the Stone Temple. Given the three druids with the Sentinels, they have no doubt the Harvesters can give them good directions to that or any other destination they choose.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 11:28:59 AM
OOC: This is not me griping at our awesome DMs. Sometimes when these arcs go on a long time we forget a lot. What seems like a cohesive story when together on a few pages can run into issues when it's played out over months at one action/day. I think that's where we are now. I know it's where I am now. There have been a lot of meetings and a lot of people. Maybe I'm the only one, but I could really use a "the story so far" summary here.

"We're already here. If the Harvesters are able to teach us the skills we need, we should stay. If they're too hard to learn quick, maybe we ask a couple'a them to let us escort them back to New Rattledam?" That seems like the best course of action to 'Lil, at least.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 5:53:17 PM
((OoC: I second Carl's comment, I for one am a little lost, and it doesn't help that I've not been as responsive as I should have been over the last couple of weeks, it's been a bit stressful so a brief reminder of what's going on would be really helpful.))

Sol nods at Grindar's words.

"There's definitely wisdom there... I think you make a good point, we should stay on task and not allow ourselves to get too distracted at all... no matter how easy that may be..." He smiles self-deprecatingly.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 6:08:06 PM

"I've yet to see the Stone Temple.", says Akuno. At least, she thinks she hasn't. She's done a bit of traveling now and its hard to keep it all straight.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 6:51:37 PM
Haemir listens in having said his bit already

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 6:53:08 PM
"Sister", Grindar says to Lil, "I totally admire your dedication to the building of New Rattledam, and would love nothing else then to gain the help of the harvesters in building her up, but we have to go back to Stone Temple first, for three reasons, first, we need their help building the boats, second that is where the council met, and third, we can't leave Sprocket there forever, and I wouldn't feel right about letting him walk home without us escorting him, these grasses aren't very forgiving.

OOC.. I need a sub for the rest of the week, I’m going to be away from the internet

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 8:59:37 PM
Bigby sees the logic in what Grindar says and thinks that it is a practical decision. "sounds good to me."

ooc: I can help Jeremy, but probably wont be lengthy responses. Its been tough year and im a bit off my game. No pun intended.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 9:05:42 PM
Thorondir and Aewen enjoy the blind prairie swallow they caught. The two eagles feast on the bird, eating the entrails first and then the tender meat. When they are done Thorondir flies back to the group and changes back into his self. Wiping a bit of blood off his mouth he says “Ready to go when and where you all request.”

DM Steve -- Interlude in a Harvester Village -- Module 4
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 11:10:38 PM
I think asking for a summary is a fair request. . .

Past modules:
* Duke Abelard Rowan gathers a group daring enough to help build a foothold within the wild region of the Sargrass Plains.
* The group set sail into the unknown and start exercising a diplomatic path to reach a landing point. But after they meet their new neighbours for the first time they start to wonder if diplomacy will be enough...
* Things take a twist when a strange little fellow turns up who enlightens the adventurers and shows them things that will change their outlooks forever!
* The survivors head to the remains of what was once Rattledam to try and start afresh.
* Guided by a scarred monk the group slowly traverse the dangerous grasses as they head towards the crystal mountains.
* The group spends time among the monks before undertaking a quest to find druidwood.
* With the help of a druid and some fey creatures, the group survives a mutation bloom that sets the creatures of the grasslands into a frenzy of fighting.
* The group aids the main body of druids in a battle with the mutated creatures of the Sargrass, and witness the death in battle of the greatest of the druid trees.
* The group returns to the monks at Stone Temple village; the druids have given them the dead druid tree to use.

More recently:
* Thorondir and Akuno joined the group
* The group travelled from the Stone Temple to Rattledam and helped stage an election
* The group escorted Sprocket back to the Stone Temple to participate in negotiations about the boat to be built
* Discussions on boat-building were attended by several groups of plains-dwellers
* A decision was made to build two or three boats with woven grass hulls; this may take years
* The group went to the manfri seeking help because manfri are known to be the best weavers
* On the way, they met Haemir again -- but a changed Haemir
* After the manfri turned them down, the group went to the Harvesters looking for weavers
. . . And that is where they are now.

If anyone wants to add detail or emphasis, please do. My stint as a DM started about the time the group set out from the monks looking for druid wood. Shane's started during negotiations about the boat.

Don't forget to post in response to this.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 9:56:20 AM
OOC: Thank you, Steve. I see where my disconnect was: I thought the tree was in Rattledam. I've updated the game's wiki page with this info, plus updated a bunch of things I found wrong or missing.

'Lil listens to Grindar, nodding along as he talks. "Ok dude. Ya convinced me. We'll head to Stone Temple with these folks."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 10:49:37 AM
Laying on her belly in a sea of cushions and pillows, Akuno hums and kicks her legs while working on a drawing. She's using the quill and parchment that Haemir loaned her, and seems to be pretty focused. She uses prestidigitation magic from time to time, changing the color of the ink in the vial from one shade of green to another.

"This is harder than I thought." More than once, she uses magic to erase a failed idea, and starts up a new one. "Sargrass is so tall and thick that I can see more than just a blade or two here and there. I'll be happy to meet some weavers who can show me examples."

Finally, she finishes a sketch she doesn't hate. It has large flat bands of sargrass in loops around the waist and chest, affixed to heavy padding. Its woven again around boot tops and forearm guards, and pleated to make a flexible skirt. It seems to be unisex. "Without actually having any idea of what woven sargrass looks like, this is the best I can do!", she yells. Clearly, she isn't in the mood to get up out of her cushions and walk across the camp to Haemir. Frowning, she hands it to an Unseen Servant, and shoves it off his direction.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 16/13/13 - CMD:14
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 12:56:41 PM
Haemir really isn't paying attention .. Maybe the headaches or maybe it's the fact he's trying to sketch his own armor. Clearly the unseen servant gets tired of trying to attract his attention wafting the parchment at him and virtually slaps him in the face with it.

"Whoa ok tough guy" he says jumping up and catching the parchment as it flutters towards the ground. Examining it he smiles , "Nice! You missed a calling there dude". He pockets the parchment to give is it to the weaver (along with his own design).

Hearing that the group has made its decision he smiles - he hasn't been to the stone temple yet and has heard that Queen Ma'ab has a presence there. As he has a day or two (whilst the two guides resupply) he decides to find a local and learn some of the harvesters language.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=18 ;
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 1:54:39 PM
Bigby thinks that the Sentinels are in agreement and moves along with the group. Bigby will do some hunting whent the time is right. survival: 18

ooc: thanks for the update. that is helpful.

Grindar
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 1:58:21 PM
Grindar is glad to see that the Sentinels were all on the same page and that everyone was able to see his point about their goal. It wasn't easy being firm on the goal and communicating it in a way that wouldn't offend. Because sometimes you gotta say something when you know its the right thing. But it seems like turned out and the Sentinels were on track. "Alright let's get moving Sentinels." Grindar and Llew join Bigby and Wolfgang on their hunt when appropriate (camp is set sort of thing).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 6:33:08 PM
Sol ensures his gear is all ready to be moved and gets prepared to leave. He does give one last sorrowful look back at the bulbgrass, hopefully he has learned enough to grow it elsewhere as needed.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 9:45:27 PM
Caelwyn, likewise, is glad to see that all the Sentinels are in agreement on the direction to take. He gathers his weapons and armor, ready to move out and make sure the Harvesters reach their destination safely.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 10:22:36 PM
"Nice sketch Akuno, can you do one of Aewen?"

Thorondir has all his gear, what there is of it, packed and is ready to go.

DM Steve -- Interlude in a Harvester Village -- Module 4
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 11:51:18 PM
The Sentinels, Joseph, Mark, and a couple of Harvesters head out the next day for the Stone Temple. The trip is uneventful.

The party is well greeted on their return, although there is quite a mix of reactions from the different groups now at the Stone Temple village. Virgil seems unsurprised that the manfri declined to help, and thanks them for securing other weavers. Some of the other folks are obviously disappointed. The Harvesters that came back with the Sentinels start talking with the shipwrights about the work they might do, while Virgil suggests the Sentinels look at the progress from just a few weeks.

Genyielt had been a colossal tree, and already has been cut and shaped into a number of timbers. The result is still far from a boat, and there is more cutting and shaping to be done obviously. But the people working directly on the project seem proud of what they've managed already. That group seems to be composed of the shipwrights and a few sailors, plus one druid.

Virgil asks the group to come see him in the morning, but seems to expect they will want to spend at least one evening relaxing or catching up with others after their latest trek.

Akuno: Highlight to display spoiler: {Word reaches Akuno she remains welcome for dinner at Cullivers any day she likes.}

'Lil and Caelwyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {Sprocket finds 'Lil and Caelwyn. He's been somewhat at loose ends here, as he can't contribute directly to the construction effort, and has been learning more about the Sar. He wonders if they have learned anything on their journey.}

Thorondir, Grindar, and Bigby: Highlight to display spoiler: {The three druids are approached by some of the locals. Hunting has been declining lately, and their help gathering food for the village would be appreciated.}

Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {Flitch has found a text in the museum that he would like Sol's help deciphering. It seems to be about the earlier boats.}

Haemir: Highlight to display spoiler: {Having never been here before, Haemir can explore or ask the others to show him around. He at least manages to learn where the group stays at night.}

Grindar
Thursday October 1st, 2020 3:52:48 PM
Grindar is glad to see Virgil and greets him. It was nice to be at the Stone Temple once again. At the news of the need for hunting, Grindar smiles and agrees to help. "Come on Llew, lets do some hunting. Bigby and Thorondir...shall we?"

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=31 ;
Thursday October 1st, 2020 3:54:20 PM
Bigby agrees to the hunt. "now we're talking. Thorondir you go high and we will go low." Bigby is pumped up for the hunt. survival 31.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=22 ; d20+10=22 ;
Thursday October 1st, 2020 6:32:07 PM
Thorondir is also ready to help supply food. "Yes, Aewen and I will go and look from above. If we see small game we will go for the kill. Large game I will signal by a loud cry and short dive above them."

Perception Thorondir 22
Perception Aewen 22

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+5=13 ;
Thursday October 1st, 2020 6:54:22 PM
After completing the usual greetings and such, Sol begins reading the document and tried to decipher it.

Intelligence roll of 13.

Haemir (Rich) HP: 27/27 - AC: 15/13/13 - CMD:14
Thursday October 1st, 2020 9:23:29 PM
Finding some shade Haemir takes off his goggles: "Greetings Virgil. I am Haemir. I travelled here with the Sentinels but .. well I wasn't with you when Genyielt fell. It saddens me to see..." he decides not to say any more and nods towards the work-in-progress allowing the druid to see respect in his own eyes as they shake hands.

Later Haemir kidnaps Sol pointing some bread at him like a cutlass: "Show me the museum land lubber"! He says with his best pirate grin.

Examining the skiff first he moves to the large stone ball, coiled chain, grass doll, cracked crystal, broken sword and has to restrain himself from salivating over the ancient closed book. Making fervent notes and detecting magic. Kid in a sweet-shop...

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday October 1st, 2020 9:45:04 PM

Akuno is happy to go to Cullivers. She's quick to tell tales of the nefarious plant blob they battled. This place to her represents the utmost in high Sargrass society. It isn't saying much, but she'd rather be an adored princess of the tavern than the noble of nothing.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Thursday October 1st, 2020 10:27:48 PM
'Lil's walkin' with Cae when Sprocket finds'em.

"We had another one'a them powers show up in our campsite and question us, then leave before we could answer. I think they just like messin' with folks.

"Manfri were a lot nicer than I was expectin'. I don't much blame'em for not jumping on our bandwagon. I decided I'd rather show'em we were trustworthy rather than try'n talk them into helping us right away. Figured it was best to develop a strong bond that wasn't gonna break when we stopped talkin' right." She nudges Caelwyn. "What am I forgetting, dude?"

She will also fill him in on any political machinations that he missed in Rattledam.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday October 1st, 2020 10:37:52 PM
Caelwyn adds a bit more about the aspects of the Sargrass they have seen.

"I'm just not sure what exactly they want from us...non of them ever sticks around long enough to get a real answer to their questions, and I actually want to have a conversation with them. If we are to survive here, we must establish good relations with the powers that govern this land as well as the people who live here."

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Friday October 2nd, 2020 12:11:35 AM
That evening, Akuno is the most popular patron at Edith's tavern. 'Lil and Caelwyn spend a good deal of time talking with Sprocket about the local Power. The next morning, after a brief visit with Virgil in which he brings the Sentinels up to speed on what's been happening with construction (all good, just slower than he'd hoped), Grindar, Bigby, and Thorondir go hunting with the locals. Sol is co-opted to work at the museum, and Haemir takes the opportunity to explore it.

Most of you have seen its description before, but. . . The Stone Temple is a large structure clearly built with stone that is not from the local environment or at least not in its current state. It is constructed of simple gray stones with some sandstone mixed in to highlight and contrast colors in places. At only one story tall but wide, the images of druid trees are carved into the stone in various places. The druid trees appear to be looking towards the door. The doors, also built from materials not consistent with the environment, are hard wood with iron bandings. Carved into the door is an image of what appears to be a ancient god.

It is very easy for the Sentinels to get swept up in ongoing events, especially as the locals try to make use of their different talents. They are variously consulted on different items -- often even things they have no real expertise on. A few days pass before they really realize it, and it seems like it will go on this way as long as they let it.

Negotiations with the Harvesters go well, and a deal is struck without the need for much diplomacy (Caelwyn and 'Lil are consulted). Word needs to be taken to the Harvester village for several more people to come help. More hunters are always helpful, And although the monks never leave then there unattended, Sol and Haemir could become regulars at the museum if they want. Work on the boat continues at the same pace. Akuno is admired. Virgil makes a point of seeing them every couple of days.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Friday October 2nd, 2020 9:30:50 AM
Haemir enjoys learning and divides his time between helping/learning to build the ship (being a sailor for decades and enjoying engineering he reasons it a sensible step becoming a shipwright) and also continues learning Manfri. In his spare time he spends time in the museum.

After a few days his companion - a beautiful blue macaw/parrot flies in to camp and the two enjoy a reunion. He introduces Fand to everyone who hasn't met her (sharp eyed/druids will probably note that despite Haemir referring to Fand as 'she' and 'her' the parrot is actually male?!).

Haemir will also recruit a local in to his coven (if someone is available).

At some point - perhaps an evening when everyone is chilling he says:
"I'm planning on sending a report back, to update on our progress. Is there anything anyone wants to add"?
He takes on board any feedback and that evening sends a dream to the Dukes Seneshal Father Nokter Labeo back at Hook city telling him of the numbers, progress, etc. plus any additional info the party suggests.

"Also, I wondered if any of you would like to send a message home yourselves? It's a simple process... You lay down as if resting and I place my hand on your forehead. You think of who you wish to send the dream to and you remain in a trance till they sleep. When they do you will visit them in their dream and will be able to talk to them. Unfortunately it's only a one way communication but they will remember everything you say when they wake up. I can send one dream a night".

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Saturday October 3rd, 2020 1:08:19 PM
Haemir: Highlight to display spoiler: {I do not see Dream in the Bloodwitch spell list. Does Haemir have access to it some other way? You should be getting a request via Google Docs.}

Haemir brings up the question of reporting back to Duke Abelard Rowan. Half the party has never met the Duke, only (probably) heard of him from the others.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Saturday October 3rd, 2020 4:09:54 PM
'Lil's just pleased as heck about the Harvesters helping out. She feels like she's done some good.

Regarding Duke Abelard, 'Lil doesn't see much need. "Dude that rich in Hook City can peep in on us anytime he pleases. I bet he knows all about what we've been up to. Plus, we were geased when we signed up for this gig. We ain't dying, so we must be doing something right.

"Couldn't hurt, but I ain't got no way of doing it myself."

After a few days, 'Lil starts to wonder if they should be gettin' back to Rattledam. This place has use of them, but getting Rattledam up and going is kinda their main job. She questions her dudes on what they think about the matter.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+9=14 ;
Saturday October 3rd, 2020 10:45:36 PM
"Rattledam sounds good I haven't seen it since my um... Hmm, so I'll hold off talking to the Duke's man. The last dreamwalk went adrift anyway which eats grass and probably means you're correct Lil"! He squints up conspiratorially trying to catch someone scrying on them: "So, any pack .. er Sentinels who wish to send a message to their loved ones or family ... speak up anytime in the future. It's all weft and web and I'll guide you".

Sometime later feeling inspired by Akuno's artistic creativity Haemir spends a few hours cutting up his old socks, scarf and cloak and with prestidigitation darkens bits (soiling in dust) before stitching strips together (craft-clothing:16 with m/w tools). When finished he has a cloak that despite being made of cloth - takes on the appearance of raven feathers. Not his best work he concludes but it allows the air to move around him and offers protection from the sun.

(Note to ref: Not sending dream to Duke's man & Highlight to display spoiler: {yes APG alt Dreamspeaker granted 21/Jul/18 - should show on character sheet, lmk if you can't access. Thx.})

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Sunday October 4th, 2020 10:13:50 PM

Akuno is wow'd by Haemirs new duds.

"Wait, you can sew?" For Akuno, this is a bit of a revelation. "What else can you make? I can craft some simple things, like cloaks and boots and even some magical items. Maybe we could make some things together sometime?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday October 4th, 2020 10:38:06 PM
Caelwyn is also pleased about the progress they have made, but does not want to risk staying away from Rattledam too long. "It's our job to ensure they survive...and we sort of left just after the new government was put into place. We should definitely return soon to be sure everything is alright."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday October 5th, 2020 6:10:22 PM
Grindar tells Haemir that he would love to talk to his mom and dad sometime, though he agrees with Caelwyn that getting home to Rattledam would be prudent, and it should probably wait until some other time.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday October 5th, 2020 7:05:39 PM
Thorondir admires Haemir's macaw friend. "I'm Thorondir and this is Aewen." he says to Fand using speak with animals. "You are welcome to fly with us whenever you wish, I take the form of an eagle often as the group travels."

"Nice cloak" Thorondir says to Haemir. "The more you can mimic a birds appearance the better I say."

Thorondir spends most of his time with Aewen as they are waiting around the village. He is ready to

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday October 5th, 2020 8:35:20 PM
Bigby appreciates Haemirs offer but find he's not got much to say to the Duke. If he were having a hand at sarcasm perhaps he might say to the Duke, Hey duck, thanks for sending us out to a place that doesn't want us. But it would probably come across all wrong, and so Bigby did what he did best. He nodded his head and went on about his buisness.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday October 5th, 2020 10:29:33 PM
Caelwyn thinks about the Duke. "Is there anyone with the ability to communicate magically with him who lives nearby? That would be far easier and faster than the long journey back to the city..."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday October 5th, 2020 10:32:07 PM
Akuno shakes her head. "No. That's on the short list of things I'd like to learn though."

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village d20=14 ;
Monday October 5th, 2020 11:28:22 PM
Over the couple of weeks, Haemir brings up the notion of reporting back to the Duke. 'Lil seems to think he has magical ways to tell what's happening. Bigby seems disinclined to send any messages. Caelwyn wonders who would be able to communicate with them. Haemir's dreams only work one way, so there the group can report to the Duke but he would have to find his own ways of getting messages back to the Sentinels. Grindar thinks Haemir's talent would be a good way to send a message to his parents.

Haemir finds a youngster who might make a fine adept and coven member here in the Stone Temple village.

'Lil's glad to find the Harvesters helping out. She brings up the idea of heading back to Rattledam. She feels they are needed more there than here. Caelwyn emphatically agrees. Grindar also thinks it prudent.

Thorondir spends some time getting to know Fand. Akuno spends some time encouraging Haemir's fashion sense. She says she might learn to communicate over long distances sometime. Sometimes if feels like Sol has practically disappeared into the museum.

Rumors spread about the Sentinels leaving the Stone Temple for Rattledam. Virgil doesn't seem too surprised by this, but he suggests that they might escort the Harvesters back to their village and bring more here. If they wait a week or two to go, they'll be with the Harvesters in time for the bazaar. "I'm sure you'll be coming and going a lot if we're going to keep this effort going."

...

OOC: From a game perspective, it's no problem if a message is or isn't sent to the Duke.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 6:08:13 AM
Grindar slaps himself on the forehead, "Of course, the Harvesters! We can't leave them to their own devices, like a bunch of white hands! What were we thinking? Thank you Virgil for pointing that out. Guys, I think we have one more escort mission before we can return to Rattledam. Besides, if the bazaar is happening, I can't help it, I need better armor if I'm going to stay alive on the front line in this place!"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 11:23:32 AM
Sol, having been working at the museum is constantly checking and re-checking his notes to ensure he got them correct, he wants to have more useful information to take back to Rattledam.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 12:18:09 PM
'Lil wonders if these folks think more highly of her and her dudes than is warranted. The Harvesters have been around these parts a lot longer than the Sentinels have. Surely they'd be ok without them?

That don't mean it don't make sense to wait and go with the Harvesters. Strength in numbers and all that, ya know? She's just surprised folks are putting stock in them.

She decides to put some thought into armor for herself. She was trained to use the heavy metal stuff, but that wasn't so great out here. It was hot and slowed her down too much. Steelgrass plate would be great, but she's been watching Grindar try'n get some without any luck. Probably just beyond their means right now.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 6:59:03 PM
"I am willing to go where ever you all choose. I am ready to travel at a moments notice as well, just let me know when you are ready. Meanwhile, Aewen and I will continue to hunt. Hopefully Bigby and Grindar will join us as well."

Thorondir has little to do but to wait for instructions, so he spends his time with Aewen.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 7:35:17 PM
When Fand catches Thorondir admiring her the blue macaw literally puffs her chest out striking her best super-hero pose and when the druid speaks to her in her own tongue her eyes widen and she tilts her head sideways listening - before replying (with her parrot voice in common):
"Well, well! Tell me are all druid gentlemen so polite and well mannered. Who bought you up this way?".

The more time Thorondir and Aewen spend around Fand the more likely they will realise her sense of humour is far more quirky than any kind bird they've met. She guffaws over jokes that a bird shouldn't and appears to know more than a few drinking jokes and songs (and if she's serious - she even knows what it's like to be drunk and one of two remedies for a hangover).

Haemir smiles at the 'Nice cloak' comment from Thorondir: "Oh to fly like you do..." he mumbles to himself. "Close enough I can almost taste it ".

Haemir is happy to wait or escort when the group is ready and uses the time to ask about the museum - especially if there are any high woldian runes.

When Akuno asks him about making things: "Thanks. Nah not made much else. You tend to learn how to sew when you're at sea. Always up for some creativity though - keeps me young"!

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 8:59:35 PM
at the mention of hunting Bigbys ears turn up and a smile. "We're in."

"what's this bazzar thing you guys keep talking about?"

An Unexpected Attack

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 11:13:30 PM
Caelwyn nods at Grindar's words. "Of course, we must make sure they are taken care of properly." He is also interested in learning more about the bazaar and what it entails.

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 11:14:36 PM
The group talks some more, with the occasional nudge from Virgil, over the next couple of days. Most of them seem to want to return to help Rattledam. Some of them would like to see the Harvester bazaar first. There's no particular rush.

In the evening, as the group is gathering for supper, they hear shouts in the distance.

Roll perception:
DC 10 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The shouting gets closer as the news is relayed from person to person across the village.}
DC 15 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The Sentinels are in the northeast of the village, the shouts come from the west.}
DC 20 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Something is going on near Virgil's grove and the shipbuilding site.}
DC 25 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {There's a faint plume of smoke and distant sounds of battle.}

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+9=27 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 10:15:40 AM
"There is trouble at the grove, I can smell smoke and can hear sounds of fighting. Quickly, we must help Virgil."

Thorondir makes sure that everyone is aware and starts running towards the grove with Aewen flying above.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=11 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 10:17:24 AM

Akuno looks up from her picture book. "Hey, do you guys hear that?" Its not often she picks up on things going on around her. "There's a runner passing a message or something. I wonder whats happening?"

She looks at the others. If she could hear it, they probably already have it figured out.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+1=3 ; d3=2 ; d20+6=9 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 11:03:12 AM
Haemir is his usual distracted, unobservant self digging in to his food (nat:1)
Fand misses everything too (Perception:9).

"What.. Are you sure" He says. Seeing Thorondir jump up and leave he quickly drops his spoon and follows him.

'He must have senses like his hawk, I can't even see it out here' he thinks.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=18 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 5:18:56 PM
perception 18.

"Trouble guys. Come on. Let's see whats going on." Bigby and Wolfgang head towards the ship building site.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=18 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 5:36:31 PM
Perception 18

Upon hearing the shouts, Grindar starts heading towards the commotion, but when Thorondir says what he sees and hears, he starts sprinting towards the grove at full speed (4X movement, or 80ft per round)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+8=15 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 5:43:16 PM
'Lil hears it too, but her friends must hear better than she does. She don't waste time. She just gets up and starts booking it. She ain't as encumbered by armor as she was before she got her new breastplate, so she moves pretty quick. She grabs Maya off her back to make sure it's ready when they get there.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=3 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 6:31:39 PM
Sol is like Haemir, apparently completely oblivious, but once something is mentioned, he immediately leaps into action.

"Then what are we waiting for?? Let us go!"

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 11:31:32 PM
Although the Sentinels set off as soon as they can, it takes several minutes to get to the grove.

As they approach the grove, they see a giant badger transforming back into Virgil.

When they arrive, they find several wounded villagers. The boards that had been cut for the boat are partially buried under a mound of dirt. Nearby is a hole that the dirt obviously came from.

"No one's been seriously hurt, thank Maab." Virgil tells the group, "but I want to know who did this! They ran off that way" -- he points southwest. "I hurt one of them pretty good."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 11:47:36 PM
Caelwyn looks at the wounded villagers, then off in the direction Virgil pointed. Anger smolders in his blue-grey eyes. "Don't worry, Virgil. We will find whoever did this and bring them to justice, with Domi's help!" He immediately hefts his shield and trident and heads southwest at a brisk pace.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+7=27 ;
Thursday October 8th, 2020 7:54:35 AM
Haemir runs in to the clearing panting a little, before realising he's out of breath because Fand was hitching a free ride on his shoulder:
"Fand, scout ahead with Aewen if she.. Er he? wants, you're faster than us, circle overhead but stay out of bow range just incase"!

Fand takes to the air: "Come Aewen let us hunt together" she says in common (it doesn't even strike her the eagle may not understand her).
Haemir takes off after Caelwyn feeling the same anger as the paladin.

([i]Fand: flight:80' - Perception:27 (nat:20))

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday October 8th, 2020 4:56:19 PM

Before turning to follow her friends, she looks again at the hole in the ground. "Virgil, did you make this hole, or did the attacker? Was it something that burrowed?"

She'll relay the answer to the others. She reads from her Mage Armor scroll on the approach.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday October 8th, 2020 6:09:17 PM
Grindar barely slows down, only slowing long enough to hear that an enemy attacked and is on the run, before turning on the steam again. He considers sending Llew ahead, but is afraid the lion's lack of experience fighting in the Sargrass may be lethal to the big cat. In the end Grindar opts to keep his feline friend close at hand and continues to run at full speed (4X movement=80ft)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=29 ; d20+10=19 ;
Thursday October 8th, 2020 7:12:33 PM
"Aewen doesn't speak common."

Thorondir quickly changes into an eagle and tells Aewen to help track down the attackers. They move at maximum speed (4x speed = 320) He hopes Fand can keep up.

Perception Thorondir 29
Perception Aewen 19

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday October 8th, 2020 9:46:26 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang race off with the Sentinels. Full speed with the rest (4x 50, wolfgangs movement=200ft). Bigby buckles down to Wolfgang to become one with him. I am one with the wolf and the wolf is with me Bigby thinks to himself.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Thursday October 8th, 2020 10:26:59 PM
Did someone try to sabotage the druid wood? Genyielt's wood? The thing about 'Lil is that she's got serious anger issues. She spent years with Domi's holy men learning to control it, to unleash it when appropriate and against them who deserved it.

Whoever did this deserves it.

She doesn't slow down. She can't run as fast as some others can fly, but she runs for all she's worth. She's gonna have to rely on her friends up there for eyes. All she can do is run, so that's what she does.

Her vision turns red as she chases down whatever it was that started all this.

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Thursday October 8th, 2020 10:43:59 PM
The Sentinels run off, except for Akuno, who stays long enough to ask a question and cast a spell.

"I did the burrowing -- best way to put out flames here on the plains."

The party proceeds at a brisk pace while they're in the fields, but most of them slow considerably once they reach the grasses.

Thorondir reaches the grasses first, where he finds signs of a medium humanoid resting. Following the trail will require a survival check and will slow him down. He, Aewen, and Fand can fly above the grasses.

Grindar and Bigby can move through the grasses at their normal speed. Caelwyn, 'Lil, Sol, Akuno, and Haemir are reduced to moving at half their normal speed.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday October 8th, 2020 11:17:55 PM
Caelwyn sees the look in Lil's eyes as she comes up alongside him, and he works to reign in his own feelings of wrath. "Remember, sister - justice, not vengeance. And we must try to capture at least one of those responsible, to find out who they are and why they have done this." He smiles grimly. "But we will bring them to justice!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=15 ; d20+10=13 ;
Friday October 9th, 2020 12:13:57 AM
Thorondir slows his flight, looking for signs of where they went. Aewen flies high looking for movement in the grass.

Survival 15
Perception Aewen 13

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Friday October 9th, 2020 1:41:26 PM
'Lil smiles at Caelwyn, but it's a little toothier than normal. "You think I'm gonna just run in and start stabbin' without thinking? What do you think I am, a paladin?"

She runs and runs until she hits the grasses. These freaking grasses...

'Lil resolves to find some way to stop trudging through the Sargrass. This whole moving at half speed in the stifling heat was old weeks ago. She don't know how, but she's gotta find something. In the meantime, she just keeps moving fast as she's able.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+15=31 ; d20+11=13 ;
Friday October 9th, 2020 3:59:46 PM
When Grindar hits the grass, he slows a bit to track the enemy (survival 31, perception 13) he has to remind himself that he needs to try and take them alive, because deep inside he is fuming and wants to end the villain or villains who did this unspeakable act!

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+6=13 ;
Friday October 9th, 2020 10:01:41 PM
Fand searches (Perception:13) and Haemir pushes on - even though he is slowed by the grass

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday October 9th, 2020 10:27:09 PM

Akuno is suddenly slowed again by all these darn grasses. She moves as best as she can through them.

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village d3=1 ;
Saturday October 10th, 2020 1:15:01 PM
Because Grindar is slowed while following the tracks, Caelwyn, 'Lil, Sol, Akuno, and Haemir are able to keep up with him. Bigby and Wolfgang may race out ahead later, but at the moment are also following Grindar. As, of course, does Llew.

Thorondir loses the tracks as he flies above the grass, while Aewen and Fand climb to get a better view from above. They get further than the ground crew.

Aewen and Fand sense a presence in the air with them -- a disortion where the winds are different, and it's upon them almost before they realize it's there.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+6=19 ; d4+2=3 ; d20+6=20 ; d4+2=4 ; d20+6=22 ; d4+2=4 ; d20+1=18 ;
Saturday October 10th, 2020 3:15:59 PM
Fand's moment of brief surprise filters through her empathic bond to Haemir:
"THORONDIR SOMETHING'S ON OUR BIRDS" he shouts up (in the vague direction of the druid).

Fand squawks in shock and claws in a frenzy at the warped air...
(Attcks:(1) 19 - dmg:3, (2) 20 - dmg:4 & (3) 22 - dmg:4)

"What is it"? He says to himself - stopping and loading his crossbow. He looks up (Perception:18).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Sunday October 11th, 2020 4:18:22 PM
Sol prepares himself for being attacked.

"While I remember, and since we may have a moment of respite, would I can cast Mage Armour once upon someone, is there anyone who would like to take it?"

If he gets a request for it, he will cast it on the other person, if no one asks for it, he will cast it on himself.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Sunday October 11th, 2020 8:14:39 PM
After the shock wears off Fand tries to compose herself (she says in Auran) Highlight to display spoiler: {"Sorry you surprised me..."}

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday October 11th, 2020 10:36:47 PM
Caelwyn glances up. "What on earth is happening up there?" He pulls out his longbow and an arrow, ready for any sign of trouble from above or below.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=11 ; d20+10=26 ;
Sunday October 11th, 2020 10:47:46 PM
Aewen pulls her wings in and starts to drop, quickly reaching terminal velocity. Just prior to hitting the ground she pulls up and using her momentum quickly rises back into the sky. She flies toward the air disturbance looking to see what it might be.
Perception Aewen 11

Upon hearing Haemir's warning and getting a feeling from Aewen, Thorondir quickly rises into the air moving towards Fang.
Perception Thorondir 26

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Monday October 12th, 2020 12:54:35 PM
'Lil can not fly. No sir. She can't even use her magic to fight something she can't see. She keeps her yap shut so she can hear folks who can be up there.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Monday October 12th, 2020 4:10:58 PM
Just keep going. Just keep moving. Bigby and Wolfgang continue on.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+15=33 ; d20+11=30 ; d20+5=6 ;
Monday October 12th, 2020 5:27:25 PM
Grindar keeps moving forward, trying to follow the enemies tracks (Survival 33), When he hears they may have an aerial enemy, he keeps his eyes one the skies, as well as the ground. If he sees an enemy, (perception 30) depending on whether it's in range for a javelin or Bwyell, he will attack with the appropriate weapon, and miss in epic style. (nat 1)

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=8 ;
Monday October 12th, 2020 9:22:04 PM
Caelwyn's head turns from side to side as he follows Grindar and Bigby slowly through the grasses, peering about for any sign of an enemy. He still has an arrow on the string of his longbow, ready to loose it at the first sign of trouble.

Perception 8

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=6 ;
Monday October 12th, 2020 10:48:07 PM

Akuno stumbles into her team-mates, not quite sure what she's supposed to be doing.

Perception: 5

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village d20+11=25 ; d20+17=23 ; d4+1=3 ;
Monday October 12th, 2020 11:11:05 PM
Aewen decides to evade whatever's in the air, while Fand stays to fight. Thorondir heads up to help Fand. Thorondir can't make out what Fand is fighting, but there is clearly something going on. It will take Thorondir and Aewen at least another round to arrive where Fand is.

Fand: Make a two DC 12 reflex saves --
If the first succeeds, Highlight to display spoiler: {Fand gets tossed by the wind but suffers no damage.}
If the first fails but the second succeeds, Highlight to display spoiler: {Fans takes 3 points of damage from buffeting winds.}
If both fail, Highlight to display spoiler: {Fand takes 3 points of damage from buffeting winds and is caught in a small whirlwind as it drags him away from his friends. }

.

Haemir is not able to see whats happening to Fand. He knows Fand feels bewildered and under attack.

Sol casts mage armor on himself.

The remainder of the group follows Grindar to the point where he sees a face leering at him from 15' up in the grasses ahead. He throws his javelin -- badly. No one else had seen either, but when Grindar's javelin goes nearly straight up and then back down among his friends, the laughter from two little humanoids effectively prevents them from hiding any more.

Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {Please roll 1d6 to determine the target and make a second attack with the javelin. Target will be 1 Haemir, 2 Bigby, 3 'Lil, 4 Sol, 5 Akuno, or 6 Caelwyn.}

The creatures are ugly little things with big, pointy ears, clinging to the grasses above the reach of most weapons (and still several feet away, anyway).

Until further notice, those fighting on the ground should roll three times every time they roll a d20. That is, if your character makes an attack at +5, make 3 attacks at +5 before determining damage. Same for saving throws and skill checks.

Here is a map.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:29/32 d20+7=11 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+6=12 ; d4+2=6 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 11:28:13 AM
Fand is buffeted and squawks (reflex Sv:11) trying to rake her abuser (claw:12 - 6 dmg). Then her eyes bulge as she feels something surround her and a blue feather is tugged out (reflex Sv:23). Managing to shake free she plummets downwards heading towards Thorondir. Her cry of shock turns in to words (in common): "Aiiiiieeeir Elemental I reckons - probably right on ma tail-feathers".

Unable to see much Haemir lowers his crossbow and moves to catch up with the party.
Just in time to see an incoming javelin...

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+7=16 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=14 ; d8+1=2 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 11:50:27 AM
'Lil's willing to accept these things' surrender. She ain't willing to ask for it before attacking critters what attacked her dudes. Well, her dudes' pets. Still counts.

She beats her fist hard into her chest where Domi's symbol is tattooed, then pulls a big glowing warhammer out. She hurls it at the closest one. First attack ain't much, but it'll keep attacking while 'Lil closes the distance.

***

Standard: Spiritual weapon on closest creature. 3 D20s: 16,10,14. 2 damage
Move: Get 15' closer (still half speed, right?). Can't edit that map, but she moves straight ahead.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d6=3 ; d20+5=22 ; d6+5=11 ; d20+10=12 ; d20+10=13 ; d20+10=30 ; d20+2=3 ; d20+2=21 ; d20+2=18 ; d8+7=12 ; d6+2=6 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 6:07:08 PM
Grindar cringes in disgust and worry as his javelin somehow heads strait towards Lil. and he feels even worse when he sees it make it past her armor (Hit AC 22) and sticking in her back. (Lil takes 11 damage) In his frustration, he moves forward and attacks the bottom enemy with a overhand chop with Bwyell. Meanwhile, Llew moves forward and attempts to bite the same enemy.

Grindar's rolls
12,13,30(Nat 20) for 12 damage

Llew's rolls
3(Nat 1),21,18 for 5 damage. (Should have been 1d6+1)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None 2d4+2=7 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 8:57:49 PM
Sol, seeing the party burst into action, also prepares himself, and speaks the words of power and makes the gestures that he's done hundreds of times before, and in front of him forms two arrows, of pure force energy, the tell-tale sign of his particular brand of Magic Missile being almost like a heat haze with a slightly bluish-white tint.

He smiles as he indicates the creature Lil did not attack, and watches as the Missiles fly to their target unerringly and impact it with soft thuds.

((7 Damage in total))

"What exactly is it we are fighting, can anyone make it out more clearly?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 9:32:25 PM
Thorondir and Aewen fly with all haste towards the air elemental as Fand flies towards them. Once he is within 35 feet he will caste summon natures ally II, bringing an air elemental to fight the one already summoned.

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 9:35:26 PM
I'm a little earlier than usual in posting, but we're having a rough day here with people sick. Sorry, I'll catch you with a real post tomorrow.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+4=10 ; d20+3=6 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 9:58:45 PM
"Finally, something to aim at" Caelwyn thinks to himself, and lets fly with his first arrow.

Attack 10, Damage 6

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 11:19:15 AM

Akuno looks about, terribly unsure of herself. People are fighting in the air, Grimnar is stabbing Lil, ugly gnomes are being mean, and there's a screaming parrot to top it all off. She gives her unseen servant a squeeze, and then tosses it aside for now. Who to help?

Grindar and Llew would have trouble reaching the little monsters on the grass. Caelwyn had a bow but it wasn't his preferred method of fighting. 'Lil" though, she could probably reach with her spear! So Akuno hauls her servant behind her and trudges after Lil. "Ney! Ney! 'Lil!", she shouts. "Stab it! Stab it dead! Its making me feel funny! She touches 'Lil briefly on the small of her back. Much less of a shove than last time.

Move: Akuno and Unseen servant move up behind Lil.
Standard: Akuno uses Touch of Destiny, 'Lil gets +2 to attack rolls, skill checks, saving throws, and ability checks for 1 round.

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 12:37:28 PM
"uggh flying things." Bigby hated not being able to use his claws. Bigby pulls out his crossbow and loads a bolt into it and begins to aim at the creature.

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village d20+4=14 ;
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 5:40:03 PM
Fand escapes and makes her way to Thorondir and Aewen. They do not see or sense anything in their immediate vicinity now. Although Fand never say the thing, it was definitely easy to sense when it was close. Thorondir summons an air elemental to fight with them.

.

The ground battle is chaotic. After Grindar's javelin hit 'Lil, the little munchkins seemed delighted. They toyed with Grindar and Llew, who hit each other in attempting to go after the one creature (12 points to Llew, 5 to Grindar). They taunted 'Lil as her spiritual hammer went speeding towards Akuno -- but Akuno was well enough protected that she wasn't hurt.

But then Sol casts a magic missile, which the creatures find not amusing at all. Their mood immediately changes. When Caelwyn sends an arrow their way, it flies straight at Sol -- who fortunately is also well protected.

Akuno grants 'Lil a magical boost. Bigby prepares his crossbow.

One of the little men gestures, and In the air above the party several dozen humans appear -- all strongly resembling Sol -- and rain down on the group. As it works out, they do no damage because there is no substance to them. But when the "Sol storm" is over, the munchkins are gone.

Here is a map.

=====
Munchkin 1 - 7 hp
Munchkin 2 -
Aerial attacker - 8 hp

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:29/32 d100=47 ; d20+1=2 ;
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 6:52:02 PM
'Huh, neat trick. Hmmm where'd they go'? Haemir thinks as he slides away from any sharp-implement-wielding (and blunt) party members near him.
Sprinkling what looks like silver powder in the air he mutters: (casts:see invis - dunno if you need a roll but - perception:2 - if anything shows up he'll point to it).

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=17 ;
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 11:02:02 PM
Caelwyn tenses up, then sighs in relief as his arrow misses Sol. "What on earth ... how are they doing this?" he speaks out loud. He immediately notices that only Sol's attack seemed effective, so he pulls out his shield and trident and positions himself next to Sol, ready to protect him from any further attack. He peers around, looking for the enemy.

Perception 17

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17 d20+11=23 ;
Thursday October 15th, 2020 6:17:51 AM
As the munchkins disappear, Grindar asks, "Are they gone or just invisible?" He keeps his ax at the ready and his eyes and ears open (Perception 23)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d6=6 ; d6=6 ;
Thursday October 15th, 2020 2:33:08 PM
'Lil gasps as Grindar's spear stabs her. She knows it ain't his fault. She knows it's these things they're fighting, but pain does stuff to yer head. She grips the spear's shaft and pulls it free, then drops it. She's angry, but forces herself to channel that towards these stupid creatures, not Grindar.

Then a bunch of Sols rain down and they vanish. "This is stupid. Are these things tryin' to accomplish something or just having a laugh?" She can't see nothin' to attack, so she channels positive energy to take the sting off the stab wound. Maybe it's cuz she's angry, but the channel does the trick. The wound's completely closed. "Well, thank Domi for small miracles." She wants to get ready to stab these things, but can't risk it. "Sol, how many'a those magic missiles you got?"

***

Channel positive energy, healing 12 HP.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday October 15th, 2020 7:18:34 PM
Sol inhales through his teeth, a slight awkward smile appearing on his face.

"That was it for Magic Missile..."

He places his fingers against his temple.

"I have no other spells that do the same sort of damage... however, I can strengthen someone if that becomes necessary, or cause fire damage through Scorching Ray... apologies I try to have spells for all sorts of situations not just combat..."

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17
Thursday October 15th, 2020 7:48:34 PM
Bigby has nothing to say about all of that. He looks over at Sol and then back up. "this is a new experience from the Sargrass."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=19 ; d20+10=11 ;
Thursday October 15th, 2020 8:56:30 PM
Flying back towards the group Thorondir directs the Air Elemental to attack the grasses where the munchkins were. He circles, and looks for movement in the grass.

Perception Thorondir 19
Perception Aewen 11

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village d20+11=25 ; d20+17=20 ; d20+6=8 ;
Thursday October 15th, 2020 10:36:46 PM
Grindar spies two other small men, with sad puppy-dog faces that are in no way cute or endearing, hiding at the base of some nearby grasses. They seem mostly frightened of the party. Even though they've been spotted, they are continuing to hide as if maybe Grindar won't see then if they don't admit to seeing him.

Haemir discovers with his spell that the creatures are still where they were -- clinging to the grasses above the party. Haemir is, however, the only one who sees them.

Caelwyn positions himself to protect Sol, giving up on missiles for the moment.

'Lil takes the oportunity to channel some healing. Since she was not the only one injured, she's sure it was well received.

Bigby isn't sure what to make of all this.

Thorondir diverts his elemental to attack the grasses where the munchkins were.

In the aerial combat, the party's assailant makes a fly by attack on Fand. It misses. Fand may attempt AoO against it.

Here is a map.

=====
Munchkin 1 - 7 hp
Munchkin 2 -
Aerial attacker - 8 hp

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday October 15th, 2020 11:07:25 PM
"No" Caelwyn says, in response to Sol's comment. "If fire goes wrong, we could start an inferno that could devastate the Plains. Let's see if we can flush them out and close with them somehow...I wouldn't miss with my longsword if I was face to face with one."

Caelwyn again pulls out his bow, this time looking to shoot at Fand's assailant in the sky.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:29/32 d100=36 ; d20+4=11 ;
Friday October 16th, 2020 2:23:31 AM
"The cheeky blighters haven't moved, they're exactly where they were". Haemir says before concentrating. A violet glow appears surrounding the critters (if successful).

(Casts faerie-fire as SLA. Spell Resistance:11 - no Sv. If he can catch both in the 5-ft.-radius burst he will - if not just targets one. Outlined creatures take a -20 penalty on stealth loose the benefit of invisibility).

Meanwhile Fand is flying to rejoin the group.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17 d20+10=29 ; d20+10=21 ; d20+10=15 ; d8+7=9 ;
Friday October 16th, 2020 6:59:18 AM
Grindar hears Haemir's words, but the two frightened dudes have got his attention. he says to them in common, You have no need to fear me, or my friends. Come here, hide behind me, and I'll protect you. he quickly casts speak with animals, and tells Llew to keep an eye on the little dog faced dudes, assuming they take him up on his offer. Grindar will then move to 8,f and command Llew to take a 5ft step to 10,h. Assuming that the munchkin Haemir fairy fired was the one in front of him, and since no one is within striking distance , Grindar will attempt to hit the Munchkin at 9,f

Grindar's rolls
29,21,15 for 9 damage

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:29/32 d20+6=13 ; d4+2=4 ;
Friday October 16th, 2020 7:30:21 AM
Fands attack of opportunity (13 for 4 dmg)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+8=14 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+8=27 ; d8+3=7 ;
Friday October 16th, 2020 3:39:18 PM
Man, 'Lil's just pleased as punch when Haemir (hopefully) makes these things visible and there's one right next to her. She really hopes she don't go stabbin' her friends, but these things need stabbin. So, she (hopefully) stabs it.

***

Standard: Attack munchkin with Maya. D20 rolls: 14, 20, 27. 7 damage

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday October 16th, 2020 6:23:48 PM
After directing his air elemental to attack the top of the grasses where the creatures were, Thorondir casts entangle centered at the top of the grasses C-10.

Aewen and Thorondir continue to fly above the group, about 40 feet high.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday October 16th, 2020 11:26:47 PM
Caelwyn looks around, arrow at the ready.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Saturday October 17th, 2020 11:33:54 PM

Akuno is a bit overwhelmed. There's so much happening and she has no idea what they are even fighting. She simply lays her hands on Lil again, hoping to help direct her.

Standard: Akuno uses Touch of Destiny, 'Lil gets +2 to attack rolls, skill checks, saving throws, and ability checks for 1 round. (So your 14 might become a 16?)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+3=20 ; d3=2 ;
Sunday October 18th, 2020 2:13:04 PM
Sol nods, Caelwyn idea of avoiding fire was good, he looks a little dejected as if thinking 'Why didn't I think of that?'

However he steels himself and casts Ray of Frost at something that's illuminated with Faire Fire if any of them are, if not just the nearest one he can see.

((20 to hit, 2 damage))

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village d20+17=24 ; d20+6=23 ; d4+1=5 ; d100=13 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+4=16 ; d20+4=19 ; d4-1=1 ;
Sunday October 18th, 2020 9:20:51 PM
Caelwyn cautions Sol against starting needless fires. Haemir lets everyone know the muchkin creatures haven't moved, and illuminates one of them with faerie fire. Grindar notices the two frightened, dog-faced dudes, offering to protect them; but then he splits open the munchkin between him and the the dog-faces. 'Lil takes Haemir at his word about where the creature are, and swings although Haemir was only able to reveal one of them. The swings fails to connect. Thorondir casts entangle at an elevation to affect the upper reaches of the grasses without capturing his friends at ground level. Akuno gives 'Lil another magical boost, a bit confused by what's going on. Sol casts a ray of frost at what he can see, which right now are the dog-faced creatures.

The dog-faced creatures react badly to the attack right in front of them, each emitting an ear-splitting howl that sends shivers down everyones' spines. The creatures then turn and run away, but they are pitifully slow creatures.

The remaining munchkin falls down beside Caelwyn, where it takes a few swipes at him as it floats inches above the ground. Caelwyn is hit once for 1 point of damage.

If your character has crystal or ceramic items that are not protected inside of a soft-bodied container, let me know. These items may suffer some damage.

The grasses in the area around the Sentinels start twisting and wrapping themselves around. The effect is not limited to the upper reaches of the grass, and the characters at ground level find themselves in need of DC:12 reflex saving throws.

Fand attempts to fight back but misses. Then as Fand returns to the group, he is attacked again, taking 5 points of damage from the winds.

=====
Munchkin 1 - 7 hp
Munchkin 2 - dead
Aerial attacker - 8 hp
Dog-face 1 - 2 hp
Dog-face 2 -

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+3=16 ; d20+8=28 ; d8+3=4 ;
Sunday October 18th, 2020 10:49:30 PM
Caelwyn manages to avoid the entangling grass and immediately stabs at the offending creature with his trident.

Attack: Natural 20, Damage 4 (crit x2) = 8 total damage

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:24/32 d100=86 ; 2d6+2=11 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=23 ; d4+2=3 ; d20+4=11 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 1:11:33 AM
(Reflex Sv:19) Haemir manages to side-step the entanglement and taking a thorn from his pouch begins an incantation. Suddenly a dense mass of angry flying insects sweeps from the grass to engulf (still invisible?) munchkin 1. The hornets swarm, buzz and sting before dispersing.

(casts Hornet's Nest for 11 dmg - SR:11 if needed).

***

Meanwhile Fand slots into the perfect thermal and spreads her wings, gliding offers her a moment of respite to breathe and take stock - which is hard (she concludes) when you're being attacked by something you can only see when it's on top of you! Her brief moment of peace is broken however, when below her the grass suddenly begins twisting and writhing and tendril-like vines curl in upon themselves and sprout out like hungry, green, silent, worms.

'Man those druids sure are creepy...' she says before shuddering and flapping. Looking around again (Perception:13) the wind smashes in to her and sends her spiraling, barrel rolling till she eventually regains her composure. It sure looked like it was gonna be one of them days...

(Fand's a.o.o. or normal attack if needed:23 for 3 dmg).

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+8=9 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+8=13 ; d8+3=6 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 1:59:21 PM
'Lil growls as she fails to hit this thing. She feels Akuno's touch again, wondering why she keeps doing that.

She presses the attack, but it probably doesn't hit.

***

Standard: Attack w/ Maya. D20 rolls: 1, 21, 13. Damage is 6 if that somehow ends up hitting.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=16 ; d4+1=4 ; d20+3=4 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+3=16 ; d20+3=8 ; d4+1=4 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 3:19:11 PM
The air elemental that Thorondir conjured attacks the other air elemental.
Hit AC 16 damage 4

Thorondir and Aewen both dive at the remaining munchkin, attacking it with talons and beak.
Thorondir Hit AC 4, 9, 8
Aewen Hit AC 12, 16, 8 damage for AC 16 hit 4

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+3=21 ; d20+3=11 ; d8=7 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 6:34:38 PM
((Sol passes the Reflex save, but has nothing that is breakable in such containers))

Sol moves to get a better view of what's going on, no longer focussing on the dog faces creatures. If he can get to a spot he can target a munchkin, he will use Hands of the Apprentice on one of the munchkins, if he cannot he will prepare an action to do it if one becomes visible.

11 to hit, 7 damage.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17 d20+9=22 ; d20+6=21 ; d20=14 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 6:51:41 PM
Grindar's heart sinks a bit when he sees Sol's ice attack hit the dog faced dude. Overcoming the entangle spell (22) Grindar takes off after the dog faces dudes and says, "I apologize for that ice attack from my friend, after I offered to defend you, the confusion of battle must have blinded him. Please don't run, let us protect you, and possibly mend your wounds." (Diplomacy 14) Llew also makes his save, and stays by his masters side, as Grindar heads toward the dog faced dudes (21)

BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=13 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 8:43:15 PM
reflex:10 (added too much). Bigby struggles with the grass.

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Monday October 19th, 2020 10:40:43 PM
Many of the Sentinels avoid the entangling grasses but do not leave the area. By remaining in the area, they must save again at the end of their turn (DC:12). Further, given the size of the spell and the effect that the Sargrass has on movement, it is likely to take considerable time to escape. An entangled creature moves at half speed, cannot run or charge, and takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls and a –4 penalty to Dexterity. An entangled character who attempts to cast a spell must make a concentration check (DC 15 + spell level) or lose the spell.

Caelwyn and Haemir cut down the remaining munchkin.

The dog-faced creatures continue fleeing, but have been reduced to a crawl in the circumstances.

Fand no longer senses her aerial attacker. Perhaps she or Thorondir's elemental have dealt with it.

=====
Munchkin 1 - dead
Munchkin 2 - dead
Aerial attacker - dead?
Dog-face 1 - 2 hp
Dog-face 2 -

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:24/32 d20+5=18 ; d20+9=24 ;
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 10:37:47 AM
Haemir slings his crossbow over his shoulder and extricates himself from the entangled grass by the shortest method he can (Reflex Sv:18) before cautiously skirting around the edge: "I'll see if I can get in front of them" he says as he considers what manner of creature they are (Knowledge-Dungeoneering:24). "Let's not harm them unless we really have to". He suggests as he and takes an apple out of his bag and holds it out as a gesture of good will.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17 d20+9=23 ; d20+6=18 ; d20=16 ;
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 4:48:20 PM
Both Grindar and Llew make their saves, (23, 18) so Grindar double moves to 10/B and tells Llew to do like wise and join him at 9/B. the two should be out of the entanglement, and right in front of the 2 dog-faced dudes. Once again, he offers his apology for the ice attack from Sol, and asks them to stop, claiming they have no desire to hurt them, and that they just want to talk. (diplomacy 16)

DM Steve -- Stone Temple village
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 10:08:52 PM
Sorry guys, I'm going to take a break for the evening. We'll see about a good sendoff for Bigby soon.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+3=17 ;
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 10:47:38 PM
Caelwyn manages to get out of the entangled grasses as well, immediately moving out of the area as quickly as he can. If anyone near him needs assistance, he will attempt to help pull them out or slash at the grasses with his longsword in an attempt to free them.

DC save 17

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 d20+3=22 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 12:00:17 AM
'Lil expertly side steps the tangle (save 22).

"I got a feelin' them dog face things were minions of these little guys." She looks and sees her dude Haemir has the same idea. She puts Maya away, not wantin' to seem threatening. She instead starts movin' after Caelwyn, trying to get outta this tangle.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d8+4=11 ; d100=28 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 6:14:44 AM
Fand lands on Haemir's shoulder and seeing her wounded he casts a cure.

(Locks out 'arcane mark' & 'create water' cantrips for the day - using coalesce spells casts a CLW for 11 points of healing on Fand).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 8:47:21 AM
Sol looks very awkward for a moment, realising that he misconstrued what was going on.

"I am terribly sorry... I was under the impression you were our enemies! I was mistaken." He looks very sheepish as he calls after the dog faced people.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 10:37:32 AM

"They are .. puppies? Do they grow up to be Bigbies?" Akuno starts the long and tough process of making her way out of the grass and entanglements.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 1:04:45 PM
Thorondir dives as an eagle down towards the dog-face folk. He lands next to them and changes back to himself. Putting a hand on each of them, he says "Hold now, we won't hurt you. We need to have a talk."

Aewen continues to circle above him.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 9:18:02 PM
Grindar continues to plead with the dog faced dudes.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 11:19:15 PM
Stilts. Maybe 'Lil can use stilts like that weirdo back in Rattledam. Yea it'd take some getting used to, but maybe it'd be quicker than trudging through grass all day? If nothin' else it would let her walk in the breeze instead of bein' stifled by grass all day.

She hopes them dogs listen to reason. Ain't right to kill a dog...

DM Shane.
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 3:02:13 AM
The dog-faced creatures seeing that they are surrounded by folk larger, faster, and a lot more deadly than they are drop to the ground, roll onto their backs, and pee a little bit, they simper and whine looking for all the world like the worlds ugliest chihuahua when faced with a big dog that its snarling cannot intimidate.

still everyone who is within 20' of the creatures must continue to roll any attacks, saving throws and ability checks three times and take the lowes roll.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 9:21:55 AM
Haemir isn't actually aware of who summoned the entangle but the little fellows aren't going anywhere and he can't help but feel sorry form them. Taking a bite from his apple he sits down and contemplates life and waits for the grass to return to normal.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 11:07:27 AM
*Put map link in header so I could stop looking back for it.

'Lil don't trust these dogs, but is ready to give'em a chance to be good boys. She lets the druids do their thing; she ain't giving off a good vibe right now. She stops tryin'a get outta the tangle now that the dogs stopped moving. She stays as close to Grindar or Thorondir (or whoever's gonna get near them) as she can.

She ain't gonna get close enough in one round to attack, though.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17 d20=15 ; d20=3 ; d20=20 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 6:01:57 PM
Grindar continues to try to be diplomatic with the dog dudes, but fails miserably.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=24 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 10:52:12 PM
Holding up his now empty hands, Caelwyn smiles and attempts to give off a friendly aura. "We won't hurt you, we are not your enemies...I'm sorry about what happened."
Diplomacy 24 (if that works on these creatures)

DM Shane.
Friday October 23rd, 2020 3:35:56 AM
The dog-faced creatures look at the party with a lack of comprehension and no little bit of fear. one speaks in a barking growling language while the other speaks in another more human-sounding language.

anybody who speaks Gnoll Highlight to display spoiler: { don't kill us, the bad druids forced us to come with them}

anybody who speaks Undercommon Highlight to display spoiler: {we didn't want to fight you, they made us, Oh Ma'ab they don't understand us, we are going to die! }.

it looks lit what we have here is failure to communicate. some folks you just can't reach. when is what happened here today.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+10=26 ;
Friday October 23rd, 2020 5:55:03 AM
Haemir curses under his breath for not having a translation spell up, but when the second creature speaks undercommon he smiles briefly in surprise and takes a deep breath ('guide': gaze imposes a +2 insight bonus on a target's/self next skill check). Adopting a gentle, calm, reassuring tone he says (in undercommon): Highlight to display spoiler: {"You have the word of a follower of Ma'ab, don't attack us again and tell us who made you do this, why and where they are I promise we won't hurt you. If your friend doesn't understand me tell him what I said."} (Diplomacy:26)

"Strange though it may sound I understand this one. He prayed briefly to Queen Ma'ab. I've told him he'll be ok... Hmmm, he says they didn't wanna do this but were made to by someone! I've asked them to tell us everything. We yeah, I don't understand that one though" he says pointing, "Anyone"? If no one speaks gnoll and the other creature doesn't speak undercommon Haemir casts comprehend languages.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Friday October 23rd, 2020 11:32:59 AM
OOC: These are gnolls? I was picturing Mr. Peanutbutter from Bojack. :D

'Lil lets Haemir talk, continuing to be non-threatening. These things were obviously terrified, and 'Lil ain't down to murder anything that's groveling. Would Domi murder someone groveling like this? Not if there weren't a seriously good reason. She ain't got one of those.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17
Friday October 23rd, 2020 6:48:06 PM
Grinda is glad that Haemir can understand the dog-dudes. He has no choice but to sit back and let the witch translate.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Friday October 23rd, 2020 6:49:14 PM
Sol has no idea what they're saying so doesn't try to speak, however he does try and keep an eye out for anything else that may attack.

He also tries to be non threatening, though it is much easier for him than 'Lil as he's about as non-threatening as it gets physically.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Saturday October 24th, 2020 12:13:36 PM

Akuno wrinkles her nose at the base display of fear from the gnolls. Cute puppies? Note these. She can't really understand anything thats being said either, so she heads back to start trying to haul Haemir out of the entanglements.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Sunday October 25th, 2020 10:30:57 AM
Unable to understand the gnolls, Thorondir waits to see the outcome of Haemirs efforts.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Sunday October 25th, 2020 1:34:46 PM
"He's kinda impressive.", Akuno thinks. Haemir has certainly made a splash since he was introduced.

DM Shane.
Monday October 26th, 2020 6:46:54 AM
hearing a tongue that they understand both dog faced creatures start talking over each other to explain themselves. it takes a minute before you can get them calmed down enough to tell their story.

"T'was magic sorr" Honest it was, We heard the call-o- de druid and came to e's call. only don't no bigguns want us close to 'em, even de Hobkins don't want hang around no pugwampi, so's after de raid de biggun ran off and left us wee folk behind with deir long legs and druid magic. Why I dink Cecil was even laughing at us as dey ran off. Dey won't get far dhou, one of de druids was hurt in de raid and dey didn't get no healing spells ready beforehand.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+8=22 ;
Monday October 26th, 2020 1:34:47 PM
I'm assuming this is in undercommon and only Haemir can understand it. I'll edit if that's wrong.

***
She looks at Haemir, hoping these dog dudes are saying something useful. She figures he'll fill them in and trusts him to get a story outta them, so 'Lil waits. She keeps her head on a swivel, just in case there's more critters what wanna kill them (perception: 22).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday October 26th, 2020 7:18:18 PM
Sol still looks very confused, but allows Haemir to continue talking as he has no idea what is being said.

He does however take out his journal, and begin scribbling away, trying to draw the creatures and write a description of them.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Monday October 26th, 2020 7:26:46 PM
Haemir translates word for word.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=15 ;
Monday October 26th, 2020 11:18:31 PM
Caelwyn tries to look calm and exude peace and reassurance for these creatures, who are clearly agitated. He looks around for any other potential enemies.

Perception 15

DM Shane.
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 1:44:22 AM
OOC: yeah sorry about that guys. in the interest of brevity i went ahead and translated, with accent I might add, without consulting Haemir. I also have not given Bigby the send off he deserved. I shall do that now.

As you are communing with the dog faced pugwampi, everybody hears a sound, the call of a wolf, lonesome and forlorn but strangely clear even through the forest of grass. as you look around Bigby who has been strangely quiet of late, is looking towards where it came from. he turns to look at the group.

Do you hear them? it's my family, they want me to come home, they need me. I've got to go..

with a bow and an awkward wave he turns and disappears into the green.

DM Shane: Take care of your Family Michael, we will be waiting for you when you return.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 4:58:37 AM
(OOC actually my bad - I should have said end of my last post that Haemir will translate - note for future just assume I automatically do)

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 6:15:31 AM
With Haemir translating, Grindar says to his friends, do we follow the druids, or return to let Virgil know about this Cecil guy and his fellow druids? I for one would like Virgil's input, before running into a possible trap, but am happy to push on if that is every ones desire.

When the wolf howling begins and Bigby translates what it means, with a tear on his eye, Grindar rushes over to his friend and gives him a big bear hug, picking the beast folk of the ground. "You take care of yourself brother! The hunts won't be the same without you, but your people need you, and you finally have a chance to meet them!"

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 6:38:26 AM
Haemir is conflicted about Bigby. Both happy to see he may have found his family but sad to see him go.
"Hey Bigby, come find us when you can. Good luck"! He gives Bigby a hug as well and watches him leave silently (his eyes might be welling up - but he has his goggles on)

Fand takes to the air and begins scouting again: "Shall we see if we can catch us some bad druids?
"Yeah he's injured, let's catch him before he rejoins his companions and heals up. If we don't find him then we can then return to Virgil" he looks around and scratches his head "Erm witch way Grindar"? As an afterthought he adds: "What do we do with pugwampi"?

(OOC - is everyone's headers up to date? I thought more damage was done?)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 10:53:14 AM

Akuno watches Bigby leave, and feels a strange bit of jealousy. She was here for mostly that very reason, and he found his roots already. Being part of a race with no history, no written lore, and no real cohesion suddenly felt a bit heavy.

Absentmindedly, she squeezes an unseen servant in a very tight hug, and nibbles its ear with a pokey lil' fang.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 1:40:55 PM
'Lil hopes Bigby'll be back someday, that's for sure. Always rough seeing one of her dudes go.

Bad druids, though? That needed to be dealt with right away. She's got a hunch she really hopes is wrong. As soon as they know which direction to head, 'Lil gets moving. "Yea, if them druids is near we gotta hunt'em down. Are they bleedin'? Can anyone track'em that way? I know druids is supposed to be tough or impossible to track, but maybe if they're leaking we can find them."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 2:18:36 PM
Hearing the wolf howls, Thorondir casts speak with animals to understand it. He replies in a series of howls translated to be:
"Bigby, you and Wolfgang have been true companions and I will miss you. You are needed elsewhere, and the pack is the most important. The strength of the Pack is the Wolf, and the strength of the Wolf is the Pack. You are needed, but always welcome back. Thanks my friend, safe journeys."

Looking around, in common Thorondir says: "If we are chasing druids they have the capacity to leave no trace. Unless the blood leaves a trail, there will be no finding them. Bigby and Wolfgang are gone, can Llew follow a blood scent?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 7:13:41 PM
Sol looks very saddened by the loss of Bigby, he was one of the few original members of the Sentinels, and it is sad to see him go.

"I will miss you Bigby... I hope you will return soon..."

He seems distracted and doesn't seem to pay any attention to what else is going on around him.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17 d20+4=11 ; d20+14=27 ;
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 7:30:22 PM
"OK then let us see if Llew can follow the scent.", Grindar says. He then cast speak with animals to explain to Llew what the big cat needs to do. (Survival 11) Grindar will look to follow the trail, even though he isn't certain he will be able to. (Survival 27)

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 10:59:56 PM
"May Domi guide your steps, Bigby, as you rejoin your family!" Caelwyn is sorry to see him go, but understands his reasons.

"Let's focus on whether or not we we can track this druid...if a druid did this, that's very concerning..."

DM Shane. d20+15=35 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 1:23:05 AM
when asked if he can follow the trial with the wounded man in it, the cats give you the feline equivalent to "Oh you mean THAT Trail!....sure that's easy. and off you go. what do you do with the Dog-faced Pugwampi?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=16 ; d20+6=21 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 3:38:14 PM
"Can you guys take care of yourselves?" Thorondir addresses the gnolls. "It might be a good idea to go back to the grove where the attack took place and tell Virgil what you know."

Thorondir has Aewen keep watch above.
Perception 16

while Thorondir helps to track the druids.
Survival 21

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 7:56:25 PM
"Is some sorta bad luck dripping from these two? This one said the others didn't want to be anywhere near em. Might be that Virgil attacks em on sight or maybe they bring their curse to the town, without us being able to warn everyone. They could wait here for us? Let me know what you decide then let's get moving".

Haemir translates the party consensus and makes secures his kit ready for travel.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 10:42:07 PM
Caelwyn also prepares his weapons, ready to move out and track the enemy as soon as possible.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Thursday October 29th, 2020 1:18:55 AM
**I must have forgotten to hit submit earlier.

'Lil's fine with lettin' these dog things go. Ain't nothing right about killin' sniveling critters that were summoned with druid magic. She follows those what know how to follow others.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17 d20+4=5 ; d20+4=14 ;
Thursday October 29th, 2020 6:15:30 AM
Grindar doesn't have a preference as to what to do with the Pugwampi. He figures he kept his promise, and they are safe now. they can do as they will. "OK Llew, time to put that nose to work!" but of course Llew seems easily distracted, as he starts sniffing at a dragon fly (survival 5) Grindar forces himself to keep calm, as he reminds his friend that they are on a mission. Llew then puts his nose in hopefully the right direction (survival 14 used hero point to re-roll)

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/13 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 2d8+4=13 ; d20+11=30 ;
Thursday October 29th, 2020 6:49:10 AM
Haemir tells the creatures "Pugwampi is friend now and free to go" in undercommon. Seeing Llew's gaping wound he opens his arms in a non-threatening fashion and approaches the lion carefully (handle animal:30), laying a hand on the mighty lion's side he incants a heal (cure moderate:13 hp).
"Can't have him taking anymore wounds if he's in front, let's move out"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Thursday October 29th, 2020 12:57:25 PM
*'Lil channeled energy for 12 hp healed in case anyone missed it. We were out of combat, so it should be assumed she made sure to get everyone that needed it

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday October 29th, 2020 7:50:59 PM
Sol, having not been injured, and in fact, barely being involved in the combat except to accidentally attack potential allies, just prepares himself to move out.

"Are we nearly ready to go? We should make haste."

The pursuit is on... Queue dramatic chase music (Rich subbing as asst dm) d20+4=10 ;
Friday October 30th, 2020 10:14:34 AM
After a quick consultation the adventurers set the Pugwampi free and they quickly flee cheering and whooping, clearly happy to be alive.

Thorondir, Aewen and Fand take to the sky and a quick scout ahead by the air posse reveals their prey must have a formidable head start as they're nowhere to be seen! Unfortunately, the tall grass makes the little drips of blood here and there very difficult to spot and without any scent ability it becomes impossible to follow by air. However Aerial reconnaissance does have its perks as the trio are able to direct the party around some of the thicker areas of grass (and something big-n-nasty feeding) before they become problems and thus maintain the sentinel's momentum.

Despite the lack of any tracks whatsoever Llew has a firm scent and the odd drop of blood here and there confirms that the party is on target.
----

The day draws on. It's hot and humid (as usual) and sweat starts to trickle as the pace doesn't ease up. As the hours mount a few water breaks are needed (using Lil's handy haversack and straws - enough of you can create water). A while later Thorondir rejoins the party on foot (when his wild shape expires). Despite being able to flow around the grass with an uncanny grace even the druid has to slow down for the rest of the party.

After a while the blood trail expires but Llew doesn't seem perturbed in the slightest and leads the party on. Is the albino-like lion grinning?

Several more hours pass and limbs begin to ache and the constant vigilance of looking out for sharp grass, things that may try to kill you and the heat begins to take a toll. The sky begins to darken but clearly the twisted-fire-starting-druid-villain isn't stopping. Haemir although he doesn't seem unfit is lagging a bit but managing to keep up (just). Akuno is probably the only one not sweating (due to her uncanny ability to look and more importantly 'feel' cool).

Darkness sets in and those with darkvision/torches(?) help and assist but as it reaches midnight and limbs become stiff and aching the question arises - how much further? Llew paws the ground indicating he still has the scent and is raring to go! If anything be seems even more excited.

The question remains - do you push on through the night? As the party stops for a breather and perhaps to discuss this Llew gives Grindar a nudge, bumping against his thigh, realising he's trying to tell the half-orc something a use of speak with animals (from Grindar/anyone) will reveal: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Llew enjoy loooong hunt no done since before meet frriend. Man no bleed but still smell wound. Llew mighty Hunterr smell not get strronger or weakerr. We move same speed. More than one man-smell." - if questioned Llew indicates that the smell separated here for a minute. Maybe they stopped to dress the wound or drink some water you guess? The fact they stood apart allowed Llew to differentiate the scent - there are two of them. One wounded - one maybe not? Difficult to say.} Anyone who knows anything about animals can see Llew is clearly having the time of his life! Slightly panting, tongue hanging out, eyes ablaze with the excitement of the hunt! You probably haven't seen him so excited.

Thorondir (being a druid) and Sol (being highly knowledgeable and probably one of the smartest people many of you know) Highlight to display spoiler: {You realise a druids connection with nature should allow him to out-pace the party easily, so it stands to reason that the druids wound must be slowing him down. More importantly he must be out of magic or surely he would have just healed himself up and pushed on?! Clearly a stroke of luck - but how long will it last?}

The terrain is difficult - it's been a very hard slog and factoring in very short breaks the party has been travelling most of the day and in to the night (maybe 10-12 hours)! Do you rest up and regain spells or push on like hard-core hunters?

Please note
Pushing on now means making a forced march. For each hour of marching a Constitution check (DC 10, +2 per extra hour) is required. If the check fails, you take 1d6 points of nonlethal damage. A character who takes any nonlethal damage from a forced march becomes fatigued but eliminating the nonlethal damage also eliminates the fatigue.

If you decide to continue into the night let's deal with the first two hours and see where we are at then...
Con checks DC:10 after the first hour & DC:12 the second. (Failure causes the above effects).

So, happy hunting or happy dreams Sentinels?

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+1=18 ; d20+1=13 ;
Friday October 30th, 2020 11:30:33 AM
This sucks.

"If we stop for the night, we may as well turn around and go back. These guys threatened the wood. That's a step too far. We can't just let'em get away cause we're tired." 'Lil's face is resolute. "I ain't gonna follow all by myself. No sense throwin' my life away to make a point, but we gotta tough this one out, dudes."

If they move out, 'Lil's toughness carries her through the first two hours (CON checks 18 and 13).

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 5/17 d20+2=9 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+4=19 ; d6=1 ;
Friday October 30th, 2020 1:30:03 PM
Grindar fails his first check and takes 1 non-lethal, while Llew passes both.

Grindar agrees with Lil saying, ”I may be tired, but that Druid lit a fire in me, and only his defeat will extinguish it!”

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20=16 ; d20=20 ; d20+10=21 ;
Friday October 30th, 2020 8:17:26 PM
As it get dark, Thorondir calls Aewen down to him. "Go back to the grove, tell the druid we are on the hunt. Stay there until I return."

Thorondir agrees to march on. "We must find them, we are close to them I sense. Clearly the druid is wounded and unable to heal, they are depleted. Now is the time for us to strike. Llew says there are two, so be prepared. Perhaps only one is wounded."

After on hour of marching in the dark, Thorondir says "I will take the shape of an owl and search for them from above." Thorondir shape shifts into an owl and silently glides into the sky above.

Con checks 16 and 20
Perception as owl 21
Speak with animals 7 times a day, so whenever it is needed Thorondir does so.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 43/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=19 ; d20+2=4 ; d6=1 ; d20+2=8 ;
Saturday October 31st, 2020 1:44:40 PM
Caelwyn's face is set, his resolve mirroring that of his companions. "You are all correct - if we hope to catch this evildoer, we must not falter now. Let us push ahead, as quickly and warily as possible, and may Domi guide us!"

Con checks: 19 and 4

Takes 1 non-lethal damage

Perception 8

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+6=15 ; d20+6=10 ; d6=3 ; d8+4=7 ; d100=36 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+6=8 ; d6=1 ;
Sunday November 1st, 2020 4:32:32 AM
The first hour Haemir sweats so much he wonders if it classes as a new hobby (fort:15 - success). The second hour (fort:10 = fail, taking 3 pts of dmg) takes even more out of him. But seeing everyone pushing through their pain he feels like an embarrassed wimp. He stops for a second and discreetly casts a cure light wounds on himself. Feeling life return to his limbs he takes a deep breath and pushes on.

He wants to say 'who is this druid? He runs as if the very whips of his master is behind him' but he doesn't have the energy and realises the others may just look at him like he's feeble. Which is exactly how he feels...

Fand is fine for the first hour, but lands on Haemir's shoulder at some point during the second (fails -1 dmg). The elf heals him too.

---

(Locks out 'detect poison' & 'dancing lights' cantrips for the day - using coalesce spells casts a CLW for 7 points of healing on himself to remove fatigue. Then locks 'Doom' & 'Ghost Sound' to heal Fand).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=20 ; d20+1=3 ;
Sunday November 1st, 2020 8:01:46 PM
Sol nods, and even though he has a small body, he appears grimly determined.

The first hour goes fine, and he pushes through his clear uncomfortableness... but the second hour goes terribly, he's clearly pushed himself too far and it's all he can do to remain standing and not collapse.

DM Shane.
Monday November 2nd, 2020 8:32:09 PM
"A stern chase is a long chase" at least that's what old sailors say. it's even longer when you are hot, footsore, exhausted, and walking through a sea of green grass taller than your head. everyone deals with the urge to stop in their own way. Grindar,Lil, and Caelwynn rely upon the clarity of purpose to push through the pain and temptation to stop. while Thorondir and Haemir use magical means to dispel the creeping weakness and keep resolve stong, While "Sol" relies upon sheer iron will to keep putting one foot in front to the other. Some say that death is a reaper ripping souls from the dying to take them to the lands of rest. but in the dead of night with the pain and gasping for cooler air, you know that death merely asks a question. "do you want to quit?" when the pain gets bad enough everyone eventually says "yes"

Llew tracks like a kitten in a rodent store, his eye alight, and his step sure.

you estimate it's between 1 and 2 AM, I am going to need for each player to roll a Stealth check, because suddenly Llew slows, crouches and begins to creep forward as though his prey is near.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 43/44; CMD: 15 d20=7 ;
Monday November 2nd, 2020 9:50:11 PM
Caelwyn, with his armor and shield, is not the stealthiest of individuals. He does his best to move quietly, but does make some noise as he moves forward, keeping as low as he can behind Llew.

Stealth 7

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+7=21 ;
Monday November 2nd, 2020 11:55:20 PM

Being small, light, and totally not AFK for a week due to a power outage and ice storm, Akuno creeps quietly along with the best of them.

Stealth: 21

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+7=11 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 3:53:36 AM
(Stealth:11)

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+9=15 ; d20+8=23 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 5:37:17 AM
An exhausted Grindar, with Bwyell in hand, slips up to Llew's side as quietly as possible, then the two proceed forward doing everything in their ability to remain undetected.

Grindar's stealth: 15
Llew's stealth: 23

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+9=23 ; d20+10=27 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 10:14:43 AM
Thorondir in owl form flies silently through the night. Seeing Llew crouch, he circles around about 50 feet off the ground.

Stealth 23
Perception 27

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+3=20 ; d20+8=23 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 12:44:16 PM
'Lil ain't sneaky normally, but this time she pulls it off. The world slows as she gets ready to (hopefully) find their prey. She ponders briefly if this is what Grindar or Bigby felt when they were hunting. She's gonna miss Bigby, but this ain't the time for sad thought.

She crouches low, senses sharp, looking to see what's going on.

Stealth: 20
Perception: 23 - Can she see anything?

DM Shane.
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 8:45:24 PM
some are quiet and some not so much. before you even catch sight of your quarry the noise of the party causes a reaction from something ahead.

you hear...

zzzz...huh...yalp...whassat. WHO GOES THERE!

you then hear rustling up ahead as folk roll from their bedrolls and pick up arms. and you hear spells being cast.
perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {sounds like more than 2 people}
perception DC 21 Highlight to display spoiler: {you hear 3 distinct voices}
spellcraft DC 17 Highlight to display spoiler: {you hear barkskin, and bulls strength being cast. }

They sound close, perhaps past the next wall of grass....

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 43/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=5 ; d20+11=30 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 9:03:36 PM
Caelwyn can't make out much of what is being said, but clearly the time for action has come. Gripping his trident and shield, he whispers a prayer to Domi and moves forward. They could not attack without being sure of their target, and they had already been detected anyway, so he calls out to whoever lies ahead, "Attention, whoever you are! We are the Sargrass Sentinels, protectors of New Rattledam. We track an evildoer, so identify your self quickly ere we strike!"

With his shield up, he pushes through the grass to see what is beyond, ready for anything and hoping that his companions are behind him.

Diplomacy 30

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=30 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+2=10 ; d6+1=2 ; d8+7=13 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 5:49:04 AM
Perception 30

Before Caelwyn makes his bid for diplomacy, Grindar whispers, "I hear 3 voices, and though I have no idea what they are casting, the fact that they are casting spells tells me that they are prepared to fight, so be on your guard!"

He stands shoulder to shoulder with Caelwyn, with Llew on his other side, as they pass through the grass wall. Normally he would swing Bwyell at the first thing he sees, but he chooses to see if Caelwyn's diplomatic approach works. However, he is ready to move and attack anyone one who decides to ignore Caelwyn's words, and commands Llew to do likewise.

Grindar's readied attack:
Hits AC 19 for 13 damage

Llew's readied bite:
Hits AC 10 for 2 damage

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+1=17 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+11=16 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 10:12:16 AM
Haemir tries to make out who is fatigued in order to help them but has no idea...

Muttering quietly to himself he wretches... First once then a second time. His mouth opens wide and an awful, scuttling mass of legs and mandibles scrambles out writhing. The dark cluster ripples down his body and pours out until the ground is a carpet of swarming spiders each the size of a gold coin and possessing blade-like mandibles capable of lacerating flesh with sickening ease. The swarm of spiders scramble around and over each other beside him as he advances.

As Fand takes to the air he takes out his hand x-bow.

---
(Casts vomit swarm)

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+6=24 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+6=16 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=10 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 12:07:30 PM
'Lil's sharp ears hear spells being cast, though she'll be darned if she knows what they are. From the corner of her eye she seems Haemir doing something so unspeakable that she forces herself to turn away lest she get an eyeful. There would be time to wonder about that later.

She charges, right on Caelwyn's heels when he opens with words instead of arms. It was the right thing to do, bless the paladin's composure, but not what she wanted to do. She takes her place behind and between her two sturdier dudes, Maya ready to shoot out past them should the opportunity present itself.

Readied attack: Hit AC 24 for 11 damage

AoO pre-roll:

Hit AC 12 for 11 damage
Hit AC 16 for 10 damage

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+7=24 ; d6+4=10 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 1:21:49 PM
Flying within 40 feet of the target, Thorondir casts Summon Nature's Ally and an Earth Elemental appears in their midst. Thorondir then continues to higher up, keeping the group in sight.

Earth Elemental attack Hit AC 24 for 10 damage

Earth Elemental
AC 17, touch 10, flat-footed 17 (–1 Dex, +7 natural, +1 size)
hp 13
Offense
Speed 20 ft., burrow 20 ft., earth glide
Melee slam +6 (1d6+4), +1 for those on ground

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=2 ; d20+12=25 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 7:30:12 PM
Sol, having no idea what is apparently about to attack the Sentinels, is a little confused, however his keen magical knowledge allows him to identify a couple of spells being cast.

"They are casting both Barskin and Bull's Strength, to me that sounds like they are planning to fight."

However, he doesn't lash out this time, as he waits to see if a target will reveal itself, and be one he should actually be attacking.

DM Shane. d20+9=15 ; d20+8=16 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 8:33:23 PM
The party bursts into the camp. you see a Human and injured Orc and a Satyr, they all are looking bleary eyed and in a defensive stance. They have stomped and cut down a 30' circle in the grass to sleep in. which means that you all are 15' from them.

Caelwynn in the lead. his words strike true and while defensive the men do not immediately attack. Grindar, Lil, and "Sol" stack up with him and hold. It looks like diplomacy may triumph after all.

then Haemir vomits up a bunch of spiders and an Earth elemental hits the Man.

The Satyr yells Bandits! it's a trap! and points at the party Everyone roll a DC 18 will save or be affected by a Fear spell. unless you are immune

Fear: An invisible cone of terror causes each living creature in the area to become panicked unless it succeeds on a Will save. If cornered, a panicked creature begins cowering. If the Will save succeeds, the creature is shaken for 1 round.
Panicked: A panicked creature must drop anything it holds and flee at top speed from the source of its fear, as well as any other dangers it encounters, along a random path. It can't take any other actions. In addition, the creature takes a –2 penalty on all saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. If cornered, a panicked creature cowers and does not attack, typically using the total defense action in combat. A panicked creature can use special abilities, including spells, to flee; indeed, the creature must use such means if they are the only way to escape.

Panicked is a more extreme state of fear than shaken or frightened.

Shaken: A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. Shaken is a less severe state of fear than frightened or panicked.

Since I put everyone 15 foot from the encounter you combat rolls do not count this round but hold onto them and I will let you apply them next round when or if the battle is joined. although you may have to apply and -2 modifier to them or you may have to turn tail and run, depending on your Will save.

The injured orc swings at the Earth Elemental with his club. and misses.

The man, caught by surprise by the earth elemental hitting him in the back. rolls to the side and behind to put some distance between himself and the elemental while also putting it and the party in front of him.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+5=18 ; d20+13=31 ; d20+1=16 ; d6=6 ; d20+6=14 ; d4+2=4 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 5:42:51 AM
Seeing this escalating quickly Haemir shrugs off the fear (Will Sv:18 - phew dead on). He concentrates (guides himself gaining +2 on next skill check).

"Woah..." he says. "Like yourselves we used spells preparing for the worst. Let us all not be foolish now. This can still be dealt with peacefully".
(Diplomacy:31).

---
Heamir will try to continue with diplomacy but if they ignore him or attack the spiders continue moving (20') and attack whichever one is in their path (Attack:16 for 6 dmg + poison (Fort DC:11) frequency 1/round for 2 rounds; effect 1d2 Str; + distraction - nauseated for 1 round (Fort DC:11)).

Likewise if it remains combat Fand will hold action and attack the Druid if he tries to cast anything. If he doesn't cast she attacks him anyway (only if it is combat) - if not combat she circles above: (Attack:14 for 4 dmg).

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+7=13 ; d20+2=22 ; d20+2=12 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 5:52:15 AM
Grindar immediately drops Bwyell and turns and runs away like a school girl who just saw a spider, while Llew stands his ground, and charges the Satyr hitting AC 12 for 2 damage.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+7=17 ; d20+7=22 ; d6+4=10 ; d6+4=10 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 9:02:24 AM
Thorondir, presently being an owl and about 50 feet high and to the right side of the group, isn't caught in the cone of fear. Seeing though that the Satyr is casting spells, he again calls upon Nature to be his ally.
Cast Summon Nature's Ally II - earth elemental to appear by Satyr

Earth Elemental attack on man Hit AC 17 for 10 damage (miss?)
Earth Elemental attack on Satyr Hit AC 22 for 10 damage

Earth Elemental
AC 17, touch 10, flat-footed 17 (–1 Dex, +7 natural, +1 size)
hp 13
Offense
Speed 20 ft., burrow 20 ft., earth glide
Melee slam +6 (1d6+4), +1 for those on ground

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+8=15 ; d20+8=18 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 11:37:56 AM
'Lil begins to turns in terror and flee. In a private space deep inside her, she wails. Fleeing in terror was the absolute antithesis of everything she held dear. It would be a betrayal to herself, her dudes, and worst of all to Domi. To do so would rend her spirit and shatter her ego. It was something she could not bear.

She taps that space and draws on the reserve of bravery she held there. It was not limitless, that space, but it was sufficient. She tightens her grip on Maya and stands her ground. She knew she would need to atone for how very close she came, but right now she had other concerns. She gives her head a final shake, and becomes herself again. (Will save 15. Hero point used for +4 to pass.)

Back in command, her head reels. Why had Thorondir attacked outright? Caelwyn had been right to call for diplomacy. Did Thorondir know something they didn't? Even when Haemir had tried again, Thorondir attacked again. It was possible he was right to do so, but they should have been given a chance to surrender.

"HOLD BACK YOUR SUMMONS," she yells as loud as she's able (which is pretty loud). "I ain't no bandit. I am a priestess of Domi and swear to you I'll protect you myself should you need it if you surrender. I know we started this violence, but it ain't too late to end it." Her voice is a little wavering, she reckons an effect of the fear magic she resisted. She hopes it and Haemir's are enough to stop this before folks get themselves killed.

Diplomacy: 18 to give Haemir's check a +2.

She keeps her readied action if she's approached by anyone looking to hurt her, adjusted for being shaken.

Readied attack: Hit AC 22 for 11 damage

AoO pre-roll:

Hit AC 10 for 11 damage
Hit AC 14 for 10 damage

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday November 5th, 2020 2:19:23 PM
OOC: I don't see how I can communicate with the earth elemental to tell it to stop attacking. "The summoned ally appears where you designate and acts immediately, on your turn. It attacks your opponents to the best of its ability. If you can communicate with the creature, you can direct it not to attack, to attack particular enemies, or to perform other actions as you command." Are there Woldian special rules that would allow me to do that?

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Thursday November 5th, 2020 3:31:52 PM
(sorry I didn't adjust my diplomacy for shaken - so that's 29, but back up to 31 thanks to Lil's assist).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+6=22 ; d20+3=9 ; d3=3 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 7:02:54 PM
Sol, apparently has ice water running in his veins and isn't even phased by the spell of fear. He simply has a look of grim determination, and stands his ground, however diplomacy is not really his forte, so he simply waits to see if it succeeds, if it doesn't, he prepares an action to case Ray of Frost on the enemy nearest him.

9 to hit, 3 damage.

Otherwise, he remains silent and says nothing as he waits to see how the more diplomatic members of the party fare.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 43/44; CMD: 15 d20=6 ; d20+11=20 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 7:28:36 PM
Caelwyn completely ignores the cone of terror - the strength of his deity flows through him, protecting him from magical harm. His presence inspires the others, and they take new strength from his own.

(Translation: At 3rd level, a paladin is immune to fear (magical or otherwise). Each ally within 10 feet of her gains a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against fear effects. This ability functions only while the paladin is conscious, not if she is unconscious or dead)

Caelwyn then does something either brave, or very stupid. He drops his shield and trident and holds both hands palm outward, one toward his companions and one toward the unknown party. He tries to place himself between them, and calls out: "ENOUGH! Stop this madness before someone is killed! Sentinels, stand down! We do not even know who we are fighting! In the name of Domi, stand down I say!!"

Diplomacy - 20

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+7=12 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 8:30:29 PM

Diplomacy. Fault. Just cause?

None of that mattered. Akuno was terrified of the Satyr and his friend, and nothing was going to change that. Even the sight of brave Caelwyn didn't matter. With a yowl and a springing jump midair, Akuno turns and run, her tail and ears frizzed out and poofy.

She runs on all fours past 'Lil, streaking straight for the cover of the sargrass.

"Kill it 'Lil! Kill it ohmygods kill it and find me later!" she yells, her voice trailing off into the grass.

DM Shane. d20+11=20 ; d8+4=8 ; d20+10=25 ; d8+5=13 ;
Friday November 6th, 2020 6:08:03 AM
Grindar, Akuno succumb to the wave of fear from the Satyr and run off.

Haimir, and Caelwynn both dominate their fear and nobly call for peace and an end to hostilities.

Lil and "Sol" both stand their ground and fight through the fear as well. backing up their compatriots

Then Thorondir drops the bass on the Three and it's all for naught.

The Man Swings his club and knocks the Earth Elemental a good whack!
The Wounded Ork does the same and between the two of them the Earth Elemental falls to rubble.
The Satyr grunts as the Elemental hits him and starts back peddling to get out the way, he brings a Pan flute to his lips as he does and a haunting melody starts to play.

The Orc yells out, strangely perturbed for some reason. You keep asking us to parley, then you keep attacking us, I don't believe you, you evil sons of @$%&$.

Man AC ? HP ? -10
Orc AC ? HP ? but wounded.
Satyr AC ? HP? -10

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday November 6th, 2020 10:24:48 AM
Thorondir dispels the remaining earth elemental and with a quick beat of his wings puts another 30 feet of distance between himself and the group. He is now about 80 feet away and will circle and watch to see what happens next. It seems strange to him that they set out for blood and they are now calling for peace. That is the trouble with having a paladin along he supposes.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Friday November 6th, 2020 8:28:02 PM
'Lil don't blame them for not acceptin'. She has some hope when the elemental is dispelled, then Akuno screams by her. She hopes she'll be ok.

"There. The offending elemental is gone and we will stay our hands if you'll do the same. Be you innocent of the crimes we think ya are, then on my honor as a cleric of Domi I'll tend your wounds myself." Maybe that worked?

She's still gonna defend herself if they attack, though.

Readied attack: Hit AC 24 for 11 damage

AoO pre-roll:

Hit AC 12 for 11 damage
Hit AC 16 for 10 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 43/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=14 ;
Friday November 6th, 2020 8:53:27 PM
"Stand down, Sentinels!" As the earth elemental falls, Caelwyn retrieves his shield and trident, holding his shield in one hand and planting the trident in the earth. "Alright, alright, let's all calm down now. You all stay over there, and we will stay over here until we can talk this out! Let's at least decide if we have a real reason to be fighting each other."

Diplomacy 14

DM Shane.
Friday November 6th, 2020 10:53:04 PM
only Three posts. my day starts early, I'll post in the AM. Good night all.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Saturday November 7th, 2020 5:01:57 AM
Haemir lowers his hand x-bow whilst Fand circles overhead.
"Don't speak to us of evil. We track the one who entered the stone temple and tried to burn the remains a druid oak-tree named Genyielt. Whoever this criminal is did not consult with the Druid Virgil who was bonded with the Ent and had no right. The trail of blood lead us to you", he nods at the injured Orc.

The spiders seem to understand him and cease their advance, (which is good because he's not really sure how they even got here).
He glimpses very briefly at the writhing swarm and tries not to think of where they came from - just case he wretches and looses his cool.

"Tell us what role you played in these actions and do not lie to us. We know at least one of you was there" Haemir is seething under his skin. An anger boiling. As if sensing it the spiders writhe and wriggle and advance a foot. Seeing this Haemir controls himself and they settle once more.
He looks at Caelwyn and says in Elvish Highlight to display spoiler: {"Brother do you sense any evil here?"}

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+11=21 ; d20+6=8 ;
Saturday November 7th, 2020 4:37:37 PM
(Can Haemir's speach count as an assist for Caelwyn's diplomacy? if not - it's intimidate:8)

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 43/44; CMD: 15
Sunday November 8th, 2020 11:12:43 PM
Caelwyn concentrates and looks at the three figures in front of him, hoping Domi will give him guidance and reveal the intentions of these people.

Casts detect evil on the orc, human, and satyr

"My friend speaks truly - if you are innocent of this, or believe your actions to be justified, now is the time to speak. Let us talk before further blows are struck."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday November 9th, 2020 11:26:18 AM

Akuno continues to run, and to be honest, at this point she's not even sure why or how far she's going. She looks back over her shoulder, and keeps darting for relative safety.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Monday November 9th, 2020 12:00:57 PM
Fand spots Akuno running and veers off to keep an eye on her.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday November 9th, 2020 5:47:59 PM
Grindar can't bring himself to stop running, even though he is berating himself the whole time, for being a coward. He keeps his eye on Akuno as she too flees in terror, thinking to himself that if he can keep her safe, perhaps he can somehow salvage his honor.

Meanwhile Llew is still with the main party, and after seeing everyone else stop fighting, he also wanders back, towards the rest of the group, He seems to have a smile on his face as he wanders over towards Lil, and nuzzles his cheek against the cleric.

DM Shane. d20+2=14 ;
Monday November 9th, 2020 8:28:01 PM
Caelwyn casts Detect evil and finds that Highlight to display spoiler: {they are not evil. }

Thorondir dispells the remaining earth elemental.

LilMakes an offer toward the group using the name of her god for more power

Haemir makes a stirring speech in his own right.

Akuno and Grindar both continue to run from the horror that is a Satyr. 3rd round of 8.

The Man and the Orc stand their ground looking warily at the party but not attacking. could it be that the diplomacy worked? or could it be that with one injured member they see their odds of survival as long?

The Satyr though keeps playing his pipes. the melody is sort of sad, and strangely hypnotic. Llew yawns big time and apparently, thinking his job as the tracker is done, lays down and goes to sleep.

The man speaks. take us back to where? for what? Yer Daft man, I'd as soon kiss a Rapky than go anywhere with you lot. only thieves and cutthroats come upon folk this time of night, now head off with ye or if you want the campsite we'll move off. but going anywhere, with an injured man, this time of night...no. .

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 43/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=19 ;
Monday November 9th, 2020 11:02:22 PM
Caelwyn murmurs to his companions, "They are not evil, not from what Domi has shown me."

He tries to reign in his wrath and speak calmly to the strangers. "Our party was on edge and ready for a fight, that is why we attacked by mistake. Had you been tracking an evildoer for hours, you would no doubt feel the same anxiety. But we did not mean to strike before we knew who you were. Now, we can either go back to killing each other or we can at least discuss our situation with one another."

He inclines his head slightly. "I am Caelwyn Alterius, servant of Domi. I am called to protect the innocent and helpless, and right now I, along with my friends, serve as a guardian of New Rattledam. We were following a trail left by an attacker which led us to you - that is part of why some of our number attacked before asking questions. But tell me, who are you, and where do you come from? And how is it that the blood trail we followed seemed to lead us to you, if you have done no wrong?"

He then looks at the Satyr. "Put the flute away, please. If you are truly innocent, you have nothing to fear from us. But I have no interest in falling asleep out here."

Diplomacy 19

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 5:37:53 AM
Grindar keeps running in fear, though he continues to keep an eye out for his beastfolk friend, to assure himself that she is protected.

As he sleeps, Llew dreams of running about in a field of wild flowers playing with Wolfgang. He misses the Wolf and his beastfolk rider.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+8=21 ; d20+11=25 ;
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 7:04:13 AM
Haemir looks to Lil (or whoever is nearest Llew) "Nudge Llew will ya"? Then concentrates for a second ('Guide' on self - granting +2 to his next roll). It's like something about him grows darker or maybe it's just a trick of light?

"Is that all you choose to take from what we said? That we're here to ask someone to escort us back in the middle of the night"?
Haemir smiles but it's like he's taken a page out of Lil's book - it's not friendly at all.

"Ha, you must be a dolt if you think we spent a day tracking a criminal just ta turn around an-go home b'coz it's past your bedtime! No friend guilt will be determined here an-avoiding the question speaks volumes! Blood-an-scent lead us to you an we've asked politely what knowledge you have an-ya squirm outta answering like some sorta gutter-rat. We've offered parlay an given our names, yet all you've done is delay an cry like a younglin! We held our magic yet your friend here continues to weave his own"! Turning to face the Satyr Haemir says in Sylvan: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Queen Ma'ab be with you friend. Please cease playing, your tune is truly beautiful but this is not the time nor place. Do not be a pawn in someone else's hatred."} a Turning towards the man again he continues in common:
"We will give you one more chance to explain what you know. If your companion continues trying to manipulate us with his pipes and you continue to avoid the questions it will not go well for you!

The spiders advance 10 feet and its all Haemir can do to reign them in, he's getting impatient.
"Think you have tha-right to come to someone else's home an burn things that don't belong to you because we see Wold differently than you"?

---

(Haemir gives a bit of a 'carrot & a stick' speech weaving diplomacy with gentle threats: - Intimidate:21 & Diplomacy:25)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 10:26:28 AM
Sol, still out of his element, but not afraid, says nothing. Diplomacy was never his strong suit and there seemed to be no use of his spellcasting as he had none that would prevent this magical musical effect. Perhaps he should look into researching something along those lines?

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 10:52:07 AM
'Lil's glad they're talkin' instead of fighting, but she's with Haemir on this one. Her dudes were good trackers, too good to somehow find the wrong injured folks in the middle of the Sargrass.

She was also tired and in no mood for games, so when Haemir gets dark, she's inclined to let him. Her own training was more high-concept diplomacy than good ol' fashioned intimidation, so she don't try and get in his way.

She's glad they ain't outright evil, but that don't mean they're not overzealous druid-types. She ponders what happens when folks what ain't think they're evil are hit with a detect evil spell. Whose version of evil gets detected, the caster's or the target's?

Problems for another time, no doubt. She looks at the sleeping lion and figures there ain't no way she's poking the thing. Grindar's companion or no he's still a freakin' lion. She knew better, yes she did.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 11:18:25 AM

Akuno is easy to track and follow. She's small, but she's a literal mess of hoop skirts, laces, ribbons, and fur, and she's moving in a straight line. Unlike Grindar, there's no martial pride causing her harmful bouts of shame or self loathing, she just doesn't understand what's happening other than a scary flute-goat shouted at her.

"Grindar!", she yells. "Why are we running!?" She hops over a small log. "I never want to see another goat!"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 5:49:56 PM
"I have no idea sister, I can't for the life of me figure out why I'm afraid of that goat dude, I've slain much tougher looking foes, but here I am running for my life!"

DM Shane. d20+14=28 ; d3=3 ;
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 10:09:03 PM
The ways of magical compulsion are strange, and on the run Grindar and Akuno begin pondering the vagarities of magical fear. at least they are trying to. their shared conversation mostly sounds like AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH...gasp....AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. still I'm going to rule that the shared experience and also seeing a fellow teammate in obvious fear for their lives has a psychological effect. I'll give you the choice of either taking 2 off the number of rounds you have to run this is your 4th round of 8 so you would get two more rounds. or you can make another will save with a DC of 20 to overcome the fear and move normally. remember you also have a -2 bonus due to exhaustion from pushing through the night.

Caelwyn, Haemir, Lil and Sol. further try and diffuse the situation, and try to reassure the men that they mean them no harm.

the man speaks. well we are not going with you and that's for damned sure.

both parties stare at each other for a quiet, tense moment.

then the Man shrugs and starts casting a spell DC15 spellcraft check Highlight to display spoiler: { summon natures ally V}

while the Orc looks at him for a moment and starts casting his own quicker spell. spellcraft DC12 to Highlight to display spoiler: {Entangle}.

The Satyr keeps playing his lullaby Lil make DC 18 will save or go to sleep.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 10:22:43 PM
Upon hearing the words and seeing the other party all casting spells, Thorondir casts Entangle to capture all three of the party, avoiding catching his companions in it.

so they have me dismiss my elemental and now we are under attack, strange form of diplomacy

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 43/44; CMD: 15 d20=10 ; d20=12 ; d20=20 ; d20+8=12 ; d8+3=9 ;
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 10:54:32 PM
Caelwyn has had enough. "Very well, if you refuse to listen to reason and talk this out, your blood is on your own heads!"

He charges forward and stabs at the Satyr with his trident, determined to stop that music.

(First attack role was an accident, without the +8 added, but I rolled a nat 20...not sure if it's legit to keep that. Otherwise it is a 12 to hit, for 9 damage)

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+16=29 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 5:43:29 AM
Mustering all the will power he can (Using a hero point before the roll), Grindar is able to snap out of his fear funk. (it should be +13 not +16, but either way the math works in his favor) He stops running and takes a second to decide what to do next, then turns around and begins running back with a strong desire to sink his ax into the goat dudes head.

Since no one nudged Llew, he is still asleep.

Three more rounds until arrival.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+1=14 ; d6=6 ; d20+11=16 ; d100=51 ; d20+4=12 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 9:17:55 AM
With two people running and Llew still asleep that the fight suddenly feels like it's swung in the enemies favour. 'Damn their delay tactics' Haemir thinks. Time slows down and he shouts: "FAND WAKE LLEW". Looking at the man he notes him casting (Spellcraft:16): "Argh he's trying to summon something big - must stop him"! A distant part of him knows that if the Druid summons something big-&-nightmarish like a Dire Lion there's no way this ends well for the sentinels, they're spread out enough as it is.

The blue Macaw swoops past him (snapping Haemir out of his reverie) as she crashes in to the lion, her claws scrape him enough to get his attention (no dmg) as she scrambles to her feet and pushes off again cawing/screeching: "WAAAAAKEY WAKEY" she frantically flaps trying to force herself up again as fast as she can.

Seeing Caelwyn has charged the Satyr Haemir panics - he knows he's very unlikely able to do sufficient damage to the Druid to stop him casting - that's even if he manages to hit him! Frantically he searches for any kind of alternative. In sheer desperation he rushes the Druid casting a spell. Maybe, just maybe he can pull this off!? Touch the Druid and make him forget his spell! It's a long shot ... But he can think of nothing else.

Meanwhile, The Swarm encompasses the Orc's legs biting and snapping before dispersing in to the grass.
(Attack:14 for 6 dmg + Poison: Fort DC 11; frequency 1/round for 2 rounds; effect 1d2 Str; cure 1 save)

---

Haemir: Moves up to 30' and casts 'Touch of Idiocy' and performs a touch attack. Using a hero point (after the fact) his Touch attack becomes:18. He also uses his 'Focused Curse': 1/day as an immediate action, which adds +1 to the spell penetration check & Sv DC of a curse he casts.

If the spell goes off/hits it gives (d6) 6 (woot!) penalty to the target's Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma scores - with no save. SR applies. (just in case it's needed SR penetration roll:13). "The spell's effect may make it impossible for the target to cast some or all of its spells, if the requisite ability drops below the minimum required to cast spells of that level").

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d6=5 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 10:40:43 AM
(Quick note: There's no map so if Haemir cant reach the Druid he uses the hero point for an extra action to move double speed (which makes the touch attack:13. Also it's 5 stat dmg not 6)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 12:53:07 PM
(Akuno will keep running. Her will saves are bad.)

Akuno keeps fleeing, but realizes that Grindar isn't anywhere near her anymore. Alone and afraid, she plummets further into the Sargrass.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+12=28 ; d20+12=25 ; d20+3=23 ; d3=3 ; d20+3=9 ; d3=2 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 6:40:37 PM
Sol will move just to the edge of his range and cast Ray of Frost at the nearest enemy.

((Critical hit, 23, 9 to Confirm, 3 damage, or 5 if Critical))

"These apparent gentlemen seemed to have turned into bounders and cads, how disappointing!"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+9=10 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 8:06:28 PM
Ok then, the bloody way. 'Lil was fine with that. It's the last thought she has right before sleep takes her.

Will save = nat 1

an encounter in the grass

DM Shane. d20+5=12 ; d20+2=20 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+14=29 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 9:52:31 PM
before you all can get your actions off, and please keep them if you make the save, the Orc casts entangle on the party. everyone but Akuno, Grindar and Thorondir are affected. normally it would be a DC 12 but entangle in the sargrass gets a bonus. so it's DC 15. Reflex save.

Thorondir casts Entangle and catches the Man, but the orc and the Satyr avoid the spell. (and yes, you get a +3 to the DC for your entangle too).

Sol casts his spell and hits the Orc. stinging him good. (no crit though)

Haemir lets his little mouth birthed beauties loose towards the orc and they swarm him. but he dances out of the way and they miss.

Llewwakes up with a yowl as the birds claws scratch him.

Lil falls into a deep slumber.

Grindar digs deep and quashes the fear, his friends need him, and by the gods, he's going to help them out.

Akunokeeps running, but the end is in sight 5/6.

The man finishes his spell, and three man-sized earth elementals rise from the ground in front of the Three.

man AC?> 17 HP -10
Orc AC?> 14 HP -3 but already wounded.
Satyr AC?< 22 HP -10

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 43/44; CMD: 15 d20+3=15 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 10:02:32 PM
Caelwyn dodges aside just in time, and presses the attack against the orc.

Reflex save - 15

(Ooc: Should I keep my attack from before on the orc? Can I use that nat 20? Or do I need to attack the earth elemental first now?)

DM shane Yes you can. making the save means the your actions were not hampered by the spell.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+7=27 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 10:22:08 PM
This is not going well. Circling well away from the group Thorondir dips down (within 65 feet and casts Summon Nature's Ally I). A stirge appears and dives down towards the man and attaches to him, drinking deeply of his blood. Thorondir flaps his wings and gains more distance.

Stirge attack nat 20 Hit AC 27

Attach (Ex) When a stirge hits with a touch attack, its barbed legs latch onto the target, anchoring it in place. An attached stirge is effectively grappling its prey. The stirge loses its Dexterity bonus to AC and has an AC of 12, but holds on with great tenacity and inserts its proboscis into the grappled target's flesh. A stirge has a +8 racial bonus to maintain its grapple on a foe once it is attached. An attached stirge can be struck with a weapon or grappled itself—if its prey manages to win a grapple check or Escape Artist check against it, the stirge is removed.

Blood Drain (Ex) A stirge drains blood at the end of its turn if it is attached to a foe, inflicting 1 point of Constitution damage. Once a stirge has dealt 4 points of Constitution damage, it detaches and flies off to digest the meal. If its victim dies before the stirge's appetite has been sated, the stirge detaches and seeks a new target.

Diseased (Ex) Due to the stagnant swamps in which they live and their contact with the blood of numerous creatures, stirges are harbingers of disease. Any creature subjected to a stirge's blood drain attack has a 10% chance of being exposed to filth fever, blinding sickness, or a similar disease (Pathfinder RPG Core Rulebook 557). Once this check is made, the victim can no longer be infected by this particular stirge, though attacks by different stirges are resolved normally and may result in multiple illnesses.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+6=19 ;
Thursday November 12th, 2020 2:35:20 AM
Fand swoops to Lil and repeats the process, crashes in to her and then flaps off.

Haemir avoids the entanglement (Reflex:17) last round

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+6=14 ;
Thursday November 12th, 2020 6:49:33 AM
Grindar keeps running hoping beyond hope that his friends still stand. He feels a twinge of guilt at leaving Akuno, but he believes those back at the battle need him more, and he believes he is capable, perhaps with Llew’s help of finding her when all is said and done.

Llew awakes, shakes his head and looks around. He sees the Satyr, and instinct sets in, and he stands up, only to find himself entangled. At least he moved away from the enemy before he fell asleep, so he didn’t trigger an AoO. As he realizes he is entangled, he lets out a roar in frustration.

Two more rounds until arrival

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Thursday November 12th, 2020 3:21:20 PM
'Lil's real tired, but knows deep down that this isn't the time to sleep. When Fand crashes into her and starts smacking her with feathers, she groggily forces herself back awake. She leans heavily on Maya as she stands.

"Ok, let's try this again..." 'Lil gets ready to attack next round.

DM Shane.
Thursday November 12th, 2020 9:36:03 PM
still wating on Sol and Akuno, My work starts at 4:45 AM, so Im putting this post in as a placeholder, in other words, we will continue this tomorrow after they post.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+3=15 ; 2d4+2=4 ;
Friday November 13th, 2020 2:28:26 AM
((Pass Reflex, just!))

Sol, looking at his compatriots, all in disarray, and not sure what to do, he continues his assault on the Orc, this time casting Magic Missile.

((Four damage from Magic Missiles))

"Come on Sentinels! Keep it together!

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32
Friday November 13th, 2020 11:15:06 AM
Fand starts circling the party overhead again...

DM Shane. d8+3=8 ; d20+8=27 ; d20+9=23 ; d8+7=10 ; d20+9=13 ; d8+7=10 ; d20+9=18 ;
Friday November 13th, 2020 9:08:32 PM
looks like Akuno is still running.

Sol stings the Orc with a magic missile.

Haemir wakes Lil up before heading back up and resuming his overwatch. (I'm sorry I forgot to add in your other attacks last round, I'll claim them now if you wish.) His Touch of idiocy spell hits the Man hard, you feel it take effect on him

Thorondirsummons a Stirge to annoy the man, it latches on with aclarity and starts doing what it does best.

Lil is jolted awake by a bird crashing into her...what are the odds and at night even!

Grindar legs pumping, heart racing eyes aflame rushes to his companions aid, I hope he doesn't forget to pick up the weapon he dropped on the way out.

Caelwyn charges forward, deftly avoiding the entangle spell, he feints toward the Satyr but instead nails the Orc a solid blow. (You got the 20 so you get to roll for crit I took the liberty of rolling for you you rolled a 27 and did an extra 8 points of damage. for a total of 17)

Earth Elemental 1 rounds on Caelwynn and slams into him(to hit AC 23 for 10 points of damage.

Earth Elemental 2 moves around the Man and slaps him on the back killing the Stirge sucking his blood

Earth Elemental 3 moves towards Lil and attempts to pummle her but misses.

the man sits down and drools on himself, his face a mask almost devoid of comprehension.

The orc takes a Magic Missle, and the blows of a trident. it's not his day at all. He falls to the ground, clutching his wounds. he goes to speak but coughs up blood instead, he holds a hand out in the universal sigh for "stop"

The Satyr's song changes, a jaunty disciplined tune directed towards Caelwyn make a DC 18 Will save or cease your attack

Man AC? HP ? -10 -1 point con -6 points Cha, Int, and Wis
Orc AC ? Hp -3
Satyr AC? -10

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 33/44; CMD: 15 d20+6=26 ; d20+8=17 ; d8+3=8 ;
Saturday November 14th, 2020 12:12:26 AM
Caelwyn grits his teeth as he takes the impact of the earth elemental's blow, managing to push forward and stab the orc, knocking him to the ground.

He doesn't care even slightly about the satyr's new song, glaring at him and calling out," Enough of this! Dispel these elementals and stop this fighting at once, before someone is killed! And Satyr, put away that pipe!"

Caelwyn is not sure if the man has the wit to dispel the elementals, so he attacks the nearest one with his trident.

Will Save - Natural 20

Attack - 17, Damage 8

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:32/32 d20+4=11 ; d20+10=25 ; d6+1=6 ; d20+15=18 ;
Saturday November 14th, 2020 11:15:11 AM
(As there are two entangles and Haemir made his way through the first to reach the man, I'm assuming the second is somewhere between the man and the Satyr (as Thorondir tried to catch both?) and Haemir needs a second Sv for some of the path between them (reflex:11) which he fails).
---

Haemir tries to climb over the twisted vines and grasses to reach the Satyr but can't make it all the way. Reaching in to his belt he grabs a feather token and throws it in the air where it transforms into a huge leather whip that lashes out at the Satyr.
(15-foot reach attack:25 for 6 damage and free grapple attack:18 going for the pipes arm/hand/face to stop him playing if possible?)

"I told Ye to stop making that noise you slug-racing-mudbrain-shoodlepopping-sludge-fudger"!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Saturday November 14th, 2020 3:16:39 PM
Heartened by the turn of fortune, Thorondir makes another pass above the group. He moves his owl talons and a light bursts in front of the Satyr. Hopefully, the light will dazzle the creature. Again, he flaps his wings and moves again further away. He hopes his entangle spell that he cast to catch the three opponents will also slow the earth elementals. Unfortunately the strige didn't last long, but it seems to have done its job.

Cast 'Flare'
This cantrip creates a burst of light. If you cause the light to burst in front of a single creature, that creature is dazzled for 1 minute unless it makes a successful Fortitude save.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Saturday November 14th, 2020 6:52:25 PM
Suddenly, Akuno stops running. She looks around, and tries to catch her bearings. "If I just run back the other way...", she thinks.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+2=20 ; d6+1=4 ;
Sunday November 15th, 2020 11:41:19 AM
Grindar keeps running towards his friends, he finally realizes he dropped Bwell his masterwork orc double ax, so while he continues running, he draws Cyrchwr Mawr, his fathers ax, saying to himself, looks like I get to use you again my old friend."[/b]

Meanwhile, Llew moving at half speed due to the entanglement, moves forward, and attacks the saytr.
Hitting AC 20 for 4 damage.

one more round until return

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+5=15 ; d6-1=4 ;
Sunday November 15th, 2020 7:10:04 PM
Sol keeps his guard up and uses Hands of the Apprentice to make his Staff zip across the gap and smack the Orc.

15 to hit and 4 damage assuming a hit.

The staff then flies back into Sol's waiting and open hand.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 33/44; CMD: 15
Sunday November 15th, 2020 11:19:35 PM
Caelwyn hopes that their opponents have the wits to stop the fight now, before a real tragedy occurs, as he stabs the earth elemental.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 15/13/12 - HP: 27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC: 20/24 - HP:28/32 d20+4=24 ; d20+4=24 ;
Monday November 16th, 2020 7:50:19 AM
Fand and Haemir both see the Orc crumple, spit blood and surrender but then to their horror Sol deliberately casts his staff, he doesn't know what's gotten into the wizard, was he distracted or actually trying to kill the orc? The panic from Haemir spreads to Fand through their link and instantly the bird swoops in between Orc and staff (Wasn't quite sure what to roll (Reflex?) but - Fand gets a nat 20! (Reflex:24)). The staff thwacks off Fand's skull and feathers spray as she lands with a thump within the grasses rolling. Haemir pales...

Vines start to twist and wrap around the parrot but fate is on her side as she (Reflex nat:20 again! She's on a mission!). Scrambling free Fand glares at Sol but is surprised when she sees a super-imposed image over the wizard, an eight year old boy wearing blue and silver and a family crest. An ethereal voice echoes through her ringing head, that of an old woman singing a lullaby and without understanding she sings the first line: "Every thought is a dream, rushing by in a stream..."
Has the staff knocked all sanity out of her skull(?) she wonders shaking the image away.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+6=12 ;
Monday November 16th, 2020 10:43:57 AM
This is a real mess. Seriously, her and her dudes needed to sit down when this was done and unscrew some heads.

The man was down, and so was the orc, but the satyr was causing problems still...unless Haemir's whip thing grappled him.

If the satyr is still causing problems and avoided the whip things, she tries to stab it.

She fails, because this is a real mess, but boy does she try (hit AC 12).

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday November 16th, 2020 3:20:09 PM

Akuno scrambles over and through thick blades of Sargrass. Boy would she be grumpy when this was over.

DM Shane.
Monday November 16th, 2020 7:32:16 PM
At Caelwyn's shout the Satyr drops his pipes like they were hot. unfortunately that does not stop Haemir, Thorondir, and Llew from attacking him. The Satyr falls over and balls up trying to protect himself from the attacks.

The man, concentrates really hard and the Elementals go back to the earth that spawned them.

Then Sol in what can only be described as cold-blooded savagery, attacks a downed orc who was trying to surrender. but the actions of a brave parrot, bravely interposing himself between the Orc and the Staff, prevent Sol from doing something monstrous

Akuno and Grindar makes their way back to the party.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 33/44; CMD: 15
Monday November 16th, 2020 7:58:18 PM
Caelwyn straightens up, catching his breath and glaring at those around him. "Alright, everyone stand down! They've given up."

He turns and walks over to the satyr, picking up the pipes and standing over him. "Regardless of what you may think, we are not bandits or savages. We are the protectors of New Rattledam, the Sargrass Sentinels. For now, you are our prisoners until we can return to the Stone Temple village and determine if you were responsible for the crimes committed there. If you are innocent, you have nothing to fear from us. If you are guilty, your fate will be determined at that time."

He looks around at the rest of the group. "Bind their hands well, and take their weapons and any magical items they may have. We will then heal them of any serious injuries they may have received, and we will look to our own injuries as well." As he says this, he winces - he thinks he may have a cracked rib. No matter.

Caelwyn will then move to bind the orc, man, and satyr, hoping for help from the others.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday November 16th, 2020 7:59:11 PM
Thorondir swoops down and dismisses his entangle spell with a quick thought. Concentrating, he casts Stabilize on the Orc. He lightly lands on the ground next to the Satyr as he changes back to his elven self.

"Well now, you seem to have a lot of explaining to do. I have stabilized your Orc friend, which is something I don't do lightly. I would not normally spare creatures that attack the sacred druid wood, especially an Orc. We need answers though, so speak."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 2:43:07 AM
Sol looks shocked at what he's done... he moves over to the orc.

"I am so sorry... in the heat of battle, I did not realise he was surrendering... I should pay more attention..."

He then moves away and remains silent looking completely sullen and dejected.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20=5 ;
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 5:51:38 AM
Grindar bursts into the clearing, as he hears Caelwyn's call to stand down, reluctantly, he calls Llew to his side, though part of him wishes to finish of the goat for the humiliation he caused him. The lion leaves his prey, and returns to his masters side, seemingly happy to see him. Grindar scratches his friend behind the ears and says "good boy", when he sees the lions teeth marks on the satyr. the big half-orc puts Cyrchwr Mawr away, and picks Bwyell off the ground. He walks over to Caelwyn's side and glares at the foes, he then reaches into his backpack and pulls out 50ft of hemp rope. he binds the villains, not taking the time to be gentle, leaving the three bound together. He then looms over the captives and says, "Answer the druid or your fate is sealed, I don't have time for any shenanigans, I'm tired, and more then a bit angry. If you value your life, don't give me an excuse to end it!"

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:28/32
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 6:37:56 AM
Haemir stows the whip and takes a moment to stretch after the entangle vanishes. Glad everyone's alive he takes a few calming breaths. Fand looks a bit stunned so he collects and holds her till she flaps on to his shoulder and starts preening herself, always a good sign.

There's more than enough muscle in the group to encourage the prisoners to talk so Haemir takes a moment to make sure no one is dying (and will take action if they are). Then he casts detect magic and places all their magic items in a pile and weapons in another. Seeing Thorondir quite animated he lets the Druid do the talking. Haemir fancies himself as a great gardener and has even written a book about herbs but Druids? Nah he doesn't know anything about them. Best leave Druid business to Druids. He approaches Sol and gives him a gentle slap on his back: "No harm done brother, heat of the moment and all! Just stay sharp". Fand gives Sol a strange look, it's by no means judging, more curious.

Then he listens in on what the man, Orc and Satyr have to say.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 4:05:34 PM

From the bushes comes a ferocious amount of grumbling and complaining. Stomping down as hard as her little feet can manage, Akuno bursts into the camp clearing. Disheveled with grasses sticking out of her ears and more clumped on her tail and in her frilly dresses, she growls at falls in a heap of lace and ribbons on the ground.

"I hate that goat. I haaaaaate that goat! I REALLY HATE THAT GOAT!" she yells, eyes closed in a tantrum. She swings her little balled up fists around in the air while she laments the Satyr. "Someone please tell me that you stuck his pipes where the sun doesn't shine."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 9:46:06 PM
'Lil's very glad to see Akuno's ok. "No dude, but we've won the day." She starts brushing grass off her back. She's good at talking, but is happy to let her more intimidating dudes do their thing to these three.

She hopes they didn't get them mixed up with their actual targets, though.

DM Shane.
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 9:49:18 PM
The party stands down, the post-battle cleanup begins.

Caelwyn, Thorondir, and Grindar all demand answers from the trio, but The man has been struck dumb by Haemir's spell, the Orc has a sucking chest wound where one of the Tridents tines nicked a lung and the Satyr still hasn't un-balled from his beating, so what you get from this round of questioning is grunts from the man, a cough from the Orc and a whimper from the Satyr.

roll for me please either an escape artist, or survival roll and post your rolls where I can see them. this will determine the effectiveness of your bindings. I'll need three rolls. one for each person you are binding.

Sol is shocked, stunned, and horrified at what he almost did

Haemir goes about tidying up the spell load in the area, he listens to the questioning, and gives Sol some much-needed encouragement, and perhaps some absolution.

Akuno makes a dramatic entrance, throwing a royal tantrum about the Satyr, which seems to have an effect on the fawn, it uncoils and doing some kind of weird kneel/curtsy only possible with digitagrade legs, places his hands together above his head and begins to babble.
I am so sorry mistress, I didn't want to hurt anyone, but I didn't want you to hurt us either, Connor and Liam have been my good friends for years, I don't want them to get hurt. Connor said we were doing Ma'ab's Will, something about her telling them that we were helping to make the wood stronger, I don't know how setting a fire would do that but I'm just a Satyr, I like to drink and have fun, what do I know of the will of gods. Please don't let Liam die, I know he looks feriousious, but he's a good mate, me and him have drank many a toast together. .

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 41/44; CMD: 15 2d6=9 ; 2d6=8 ;
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 11:23:18 PM
As Grindar binds them, Caelwyn lays his hand on the orc's wound, healing his worst injuries. (The orc recovers 9 hitpoints.)

He listens curiously to what the satyr has to say. "The will of Ma'ab, you say? We will come back to that. First of all, you will now tell me who you are and why you are here, and then what you have to say for yourselves about the fire and the damage you caused." He looks at the orc, expecting him to answer.

He also heals his own injuries to some degree.

(Caelwyn recovers 8 hp)

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 d20+11=17 ; d20+11=17 ; d20+11=24 ;
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 5:56:42 AM
Survival rolls for binding: 17,17,24

At the mention of Ma'ab being happy with the attempted destruction, Grindar growls, "And when was the last time you spoke the queen, because we did so only a few months ago, and she seemed happy with the direction we were heading at the time, so someone needs to start telling the truth!" Turning to his friends he says, "Could whoever cast the spell on this Connor, making him a babbling fool please release him, we need him to talk!" Grindar then stands ready to cut Connor down if he starts speaking any incantations.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:28/32 d8+4=7 ; d100=5 ;
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 7:24:11 AM
The Orc should be better after Caelwyn's heal, the Satyr is already talking and as for the man well... Placing a hand on his head and scratching the back of his neck the elf says: "Eats grass about the man here, Connor is it? But it'll wear off in half hour, not somethin I can remove or I'd have done it Caelwyn! He'll have forgotten a fair chunk of his spells, but he'll live. What's your name Satyr"?

Haemir doesn't know what to say about Ma'ab, who can fathom-out the will of gods?! But it doesn't sound likely, considering the Queen is shielding the Ent's spirit already. Why burn the body? 'Not buying it' he thinks.

"If your heart - or head fer that matter, tells you something's not copper-bottomed, give it a wide berth" he offers the Satyr. Seeing the probable lack of comprehension he reiterates: "Don't let your friends talk you into nonsense"!
Haemir steps up to heal the Satyr but trying to perform the somantic hand movements (while holding a loaded hand-bow) proves too much and he looses the spell... "Well tha'was in th'offing" he mumbles blushing: " So, was all this his idea"? he says pointing to the man.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+3=7 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=6 ; d20=9 ; d20=1 ; d20=14 ;
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 10:21:27 AM

Akuno holds still with her arms out, allowing Lil to attend her needs. The sting of her anger was suddenly gone as soon as the Satyr deferred and called her 'mistress'. That was a first! "Thank you dudette Lil. I couldn't quite reach those myself. Let me know if your weapons or armor are dented. I'm .. I'm capable of some mending."

She gathers her wits, and her unseen servant, and tries to make sure there's no wriggle room in Caelwyns work. Unfortunately, she's not any help at all, and the skilled elf probably has to fix where she and her sevant helped.

She summons a floating disk and takes a seat, happy to be off the ground. she has no intention of trying to get in on the questioning for now, she just looks down disapprovingly at the Satyr. Her dress magically removes the rest of any dirt and grass as she does so.

Aid Another: Fail, Succed, Fail
U. Servant Aid Another: Fail, Fail, Succeed.
Please consider Caelwyns scores to be 17, 19, 26.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=18 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+6=26 ;
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 2:25:40 PM
"Hardening wood for ships comes after it is cut into planks I believe. What you were doing was destroying something you had no right to. We need to have Virgil decide what the punishment should be. Here, let me have a look at those bonds. Probably should gag these as well since they may be able to cast a spell. These druids may be able to escape if they wildshape into something that can slip those ropes. I'm not sure about how to prevent that. Maybe we should march back during the night so that no one is rested up?"

Survival checks 18, 23, 26

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 5:30:10 PM
Sol frowns.

"Do we have any way to secure them properly? I am no gaoler, and I am not certain we will be able to ensure their cooperation all the way back... I also hasten to add I would not do well in a forced march through the night, but I am willing to try if it is our only option."

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:28/32
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 5:47:23 PM
"Come sunrise if I were him I would fly off as a bird! Technically we could rest n' prevent them. Poke em every half hour. Not sure how I feel about that.
Thorondir do you have to meditate to refresh that .. ability?

It's either that... talk in half hour when he .. er wakes up or... Travel back now and try to hold the fatigue at bay with magic. Any other ideas"?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 7:05:56 PM
"I usually require a short rest, and in the new day I can wildshape again. I believe they can as well. I'm sure if they were unconscious they would be unable to, but I don't see our paladin friend allowing us to beat them to that state. Perhaps they could give us their word?"

Thorondir is unsure how to keep a fellow druid secure.

DM Shane.
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 9:46:06 PM
The loot!
[Orc, Liam] masterwork ironwood breastplate (permanent), masterwork club, spears (4), holly and mistletoe, 93 GP
[Man, Connor] oil of protection from energy (electricity, 60HP), a scroll of lesser restoration, a scroll of protection from energy, a scroll of wall of fire;+1 ironwood breastplate (permanent), masterwork heavy wooden shield, masterwork club, 3x masterwork short spears, headband of inspired wisdom +2, holly and mistletoe, spell component pouch, 60 GP
[satyr, Cecil] masterwork pipes, short bow, 20 arrows

keeping a spell slinger, especially a Druid, from casting spells is a non-trivial exercise. you are a good 2 days from getting back home.

The Orc Gasps and draws an easy breath, you did not realize how labored his breathing was until it smoothed out. Ahhhh! that's the stuff!, mmmm...tastes like sweetbread...Aye, Connor said that Ma'ab appeared to him in the form of a Flaming Tor, but the flames did not touch the Tor, and they were blue, and cold. she said that the wood must grow stronger to be as one with the Sar. then the Tor turned into a river and Connor said he went swimming.....he often get visions when he eats the White mushrooms with the lite brown tops. but he said he thought this vision was a real one. There is a small pine forest at the foot of the southern mountains, we've been growing it for years. the loblolly pine only spreads it seeds when a fire opens the cones. we've had to put some controlled burns in to propagate the trees at times. I guess Connor thought we should do the same with those trees. I don't think Oak spreads that way though.

Everybody give yourself sufficient exp to make it to 5th level.

for the Excellent Role playing everybody also gets 1 hero point. Haemir gets 1 for casting the spell that turned the tide of the battle.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 41/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 11:20:17 PM
Caelwyn thinks he understands what the orc is saying. "So, you wish to bring the forests back to the Sargrass? And since the pine trees require fire, you believed it worked the same with oaks..." He sighs. "Alright, this will be interesting to discuss with Virgil and the others, at least."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Thursday November 19th, 2020 6:01:24 AM
To Liam Grindar says, "If what you say is true, can we trust you to come back to Stone Temple to speak to Virgil? No permanent harm was done, and if he understood what happened, I feel he would understand, and forgive freely. If you agree to join us, as we return, which I feel needs to happen tomorrow, since I'm exhausted, as are we all, I can promise we will speak on your behalf and I will remove your bonds."

Grindar sees the ironwood breastplates and his mind instantly turns his attention that way, as he's been looking for just an item ever since his druid skills removed the ability for him to wear his fathers steel breastplate. he picks up the magical one and says to his friends, "Um, does anyone mind if I take this?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+10=16 ;
Thursday November 19th, 2020 8:56:34 AM
OOC: Sorry I missed yesterday, folks. It has been a very challenging week.

***

'Lil finishes up brushing off Akuno. "Thank you for the offer, Akuno, but my equipment didn't get any use during all this."

She don't trust this nonsense. They were trying to control burn an area to restore some forests, and started near a developed area that happened to be the resting place of the only source of druidwood anywhere that didn't involve raiding a grove? .

Sense motive: 16

Before she moves away from Akuno, she asks the catgirl her opinion as well: "So, you buying this, your highness?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Thursday November 19th, 2020 8:31:54 PM
"I think we should divide up this gear to easily carry it, but I suppose Lil could store some of it in her pack. If Virgil finds them not guilty of arson, then we could return the gear. If they try to escape, or actually do it, then they would forfeit their possessions. I don't believe them though, as clearly they lied to us as battle was joined. You forced me to dismiss my elemental, which had them on their heels. Unfortunately, they then used their spells to bring in more powerful elementals. We should have negotiated with them after we subdued them. Standing back was a mistake that almost cost us our lives. The fear and sleep spells were clearly an aggressive attack. Luckily, Haemir struck the blow that gave us the advantage. I suggest we rest with 2 of us on watch at a time and get started in the morning."

Thorondir is clearly upset that the three adversaries were able to manipulate the Sentinels with lies, when the blood trail led to them.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Thursday November 19th, 2020 8:56:49 PM

Akuno is startled to be asked her opinion, despite the fact that she regularly gives it without it being wanted. "I .. well. I think maybe one of them was a friend that convinced the others of something he saw in a vision. That vision probably wasn't real."

She shifts uncomfortably. "Following the letter of the law though, its gets people in trouble more than it should sometimes. If everyone followed all the rules all the time, then sure. But .. well, they could have hurt a lot of people in that fire. They at least need to be stripped of the ability to hurt anyone. Caelwyn may not like it, but keeping them bound and unconscious if they get out of line seems the safest thing." (Akuno is CG, trying to show that here.)

DM Shane.
Thursday November 19th, 2020 11:01:57 PM
Trust, it's a delicate, fickle, and altogether too easily lost. The Orc, he does something altogether un ork-like. he thinks, and out loud too. very suspicious.

Ah....see...I can speak for myself. this whole thing could have gone badly for any of us. I see that, and I'm grateful it didn't' and for the healing too. I would follow you back to the village and I think Cecil would too...heh...I think he would follow the little cat girl anywhere. Connor is going to be the problem. He's always right, at least he thinks he is, and no one can convince him otherwise, He's always been Jealous of the Druid wood, but he hides it behind philosophical differences, and he's pretty good at convincing others of his way of thinking. No, I think the first thing He's going to do when he gets his sense back is turn into a bird and fly off to regroup. Then he's going to convince himself that Cecil and I are prisoners and then try and mount a rescue. Bloody idiot, but Wardds fingers! he's loyal to his friends. I'd love to get him back to the village. maybe if he visited with the druid a bit instead of harping on a difference of opinion 15 years old, he might get some closure and a bit of peace, but like I said he's a bull-headed as a Minotaur with a toothache.

His eyes Drift over to the drooling idiot setting a few feet away, a look of exasperated affection coloring the orcs countance.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 41/44; CMD: 15
Thursday November 19th, 2020 11:05:13 PM
Caelwyn looks at the orc, thinking about what he said. "Well, you seem to have a sensible head on your shoulders...any ideas on how to stop him transforming? We need to get him back to the village, and him trying to escape would...complicate things. Would he listen to you if you advised him to accompany us?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:28/32
Friday November 20th, 2020 12:29:32 AM
"Any suggestions on how to stop Connor flying off Liam " ?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+12=16 ; d20+12=21 ;
Friday November 20th, 2020 2:31:00 AM
Sol thinks if he knows of any way to hold off a Druid from spellcasting using his not inconsiderable magical knowledge.

((Knowledge (Arcana) and Spellcraft, 16 and 21 respectively))

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Friday November 20th, 2020 5:39:05 AM
Grindar believes Liam. Maybe he's just being naive, in spite of the fair amount of wisdom he was blessed with, he's only been on the planet for 15 summers after all. Turning to the Cecil, the half-orc says, "You've heard what your friend here has said, is he right that you would follow us willingly, and if so, would you use your sleep magic on Connor? It would just be until we got back to Stone Temple, and it would be for his own good, because the alternative is me pounding him to unconsciousness, something i'd rather not do."

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Friday November 20th, 2020 11:05:18 AM
Her dudes have the new prisoners in order, so she turns to Thorondir instead.

"We can't go around startin' things like this with violence. We didn't even confirm they was who we were lookin' for. Not to mention you had your elementals start using lethal force after Cae asked for their surrender.

"We probably woulda' ended up fightin' them anyway, but we're supposed to be the good guys here." Her tone ain't angry. She's aware this is her opinion and her dudes are entitled to their own, but they needed to figure out how they was gonna handle stuff like this from now on. He was right about dismissing his elementals almost costing them their lives.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday November 20th, 2020 11:12:07 AM
"Well lots of things were happening at once. I was summoning the elemental at the same time Cae asked them to surrender. I need to learn to speak elemental, because I summoned them to attack and I don't have a way to ask them to politely wait until we finish a conversation. I think we need to have a conversation before we come upon the group that we have blood tracked. To me, it was clear from the start we were tracking the culprits, and blood scent is pretty good evidence. Perhaps in the future, it would be a good idea to have a plan ahead of time. Maybe I'll just hang back in the future, until it is clear my services are needed?"

Thorondir will never understand why words take the place of action, when action is what is needed.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday November 20th, 2020 3:33:14 PM

Akuno slides in next to Thorondir and slips a small hand into his. Her ears flick as she thinks about what to say. "I think you did fine.", she whispers. "I think as the good guys though, the only rule I think needs to be set in stone, is that if someone gives up we have to give them a chance."

She thinks a bit, tail a-swish, then adds. "Except maybe if Caelwyn tells us they are evil. I think that its fair to vanquish evil with your kingdom. It's probably a duty of a good ruler. Sure there are some people who want to redeem all the bad people, but you can't always concern yourself with that and risk leaving your people without a legitimate heir."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday November 20th, 2020 7:00:58 PM
"I agree, when they surrendered I stabilized the dying orc. Though I think folks are unlikely to surrender unless we give them reason to."

in a whispered voice Thorondir says to Akuno "Do you worry about the power of Caelwyn declaring someone evil? I mean, good and evil are on a spectrum. That is a lot of power to decide who is evil and who is not."

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:28/32 d20+15=21 ;
Friday November 20th, 2020 10:00:14 PM
Heamir ponders a while then concentrates on himself (granting +2 on a skill check).

"I can't speak for anyone but meself here. I was expecting two brig- er people, not three n' that reminded me of something... Few years back a thread of ma'crew beached to go foraging n' hunting. Twas a lovely island with amazing fauna n' delicious fruit" his eyes go distant; a fauna-moment: "Turns out a herd of Deinonychus realised that despite being unable to digest th' fruit themselves, every now-n-then food washed up, or more accurately sailed right up t'pick said fruit" smiling unashamedly he bows very slightly: "Yep, we were that stupid n' all they had to do was wait. Turns out they were a mean n' nasty pack too. So outnumbered n' on their last thread ole 'One-Eared' Harding pipes up with a plan"... he stops sighing .

"I'm rambling? Well for all we know our quarry could've passed through a well used campsite, or they could've spent an hour with these people n' moved on. If we'd killed innocents"... Haemir doesn't look at Sol or anyone much at all whilst speaking, as far as he's concerned the orc situation is over and dealt with, an easy mistake and he didn't want the wizard dwelling on it or anyone else.

"As already said, we've never been here n'prolly should'a talked this through, but whatever happens it's everyone's own responsibility to ensure 'afore a blow is dealt, yer heart is felt"!

He muses a while: "We can't fix th'past only th'future. Maybe a code or battle cry? An anagram of your name Thorondir means rain down your entangle? Imagine what we could achieve with seamlessly co-ordinated tactics!?".

suddenly remembering something Haemir reaches inside his bag and takes out a small battered book which he passes it to Thorondir, "Oh n' here keep it". Thorondir Highlight to display spoiler: {Title: 'Terran for beginners': looks a couple of months old with only the first few chapters read}.

"Oh the story? Well, 'One-Eared' Harding cut his arm n' ran from the Deino's. They tracked his blood n' drew closer and he lead them to an area he knew to avoid. The den of some panthers, a mated pair with a couple o'big, vicious packs of their own. The Deino's weren't stupid but they lost reason to the scent and pushed on ignoring the tell-tail signs. paid for it with a lot of lives. Meanwhile th'crew got away. Quick thinking on 'One-Eared' Harding's part"!
He left out the part they call him 'One-Eared' n'One-Handed Harding now, oh and let's not mention the nose, better to end on a high note.

(Diplomacy:21, probably didn't need to roll but why not?)

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 41/44; CMD: 15
Sunday November 22nd, 2020 11:19:16 PM
Caelwyn is completely focused on the problem at hand. "Alright, let's prepare to rest for a while here. We all need it. We can take it in shifts to watch these three...but first we still need to figure out how to prevent Conner from flying out of here once he wakes up..."

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:28/32
Monday November 23rd, 2020 12:20:58 PM
"Cecil, the mushrooms with the brown top that creates visions. Do ya know where I can find some"? He's notes any incredulous gazes:
"Whaat? It's for botanical research purposes"!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+9=21 ;
Monday November 23rd, 2020 3:26:14 PM
Thorondir flips through the book that Haemir hands him. "This could be very handy, I don't need to be fluent if I can tell the elemental to stop or attack. Thanks!"

He thinks about mushrooms he has seen and wonders if he can determine the species that Cecil is referring to.
Knowledge nature 21

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday November 23rd, 2020 5:26:08 PM
"Haemir, if you even think of putting any of those white-handed mushrooms, in your mouth, I'll turn you over my knee like my papa used to do when I did something stupid! If you wish to study them that's one thing, but if you start having any of those "visions"..." Grindar allows his words to trail off, as he pantomimes giving someone a spanking.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:28/32
Monday November 23rd, 2020 6:35:22 PM
Haemir chuckles at Grindar's comment.
"I'm old enough to be yer great-great-great-grandad".

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17
Monday November 23rd, 2020 6:58:35 PM
Grindar starts laughing with Haemir, and adds in a joking matter, "Well that may be so, but I'm more then twice your size, and besides if I don't do something, Lil will!" He laughs even harder after saying that last bit.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday November 23rd, 2020 8:48:37 PM

Akuno considers Thorondirs question.

"No. I think if knights given the ability to tell evil from good were unreliable, I wouldn't have been raised on stories of paladins and heroes vanquishing evil and preserving the realms of good. I think it might be harder to figure out than we think it is, and we have to decide if we trust Caelwyn to decide who is evil and who isn't. And I think he will take our thoughts into account."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 41/44; CMD: 15
Monday November 23rd, 2020 10:57:39 PM
Caelwyn checks the knots on the captives hands. "Does everyone agree that resting here is necessary right now? And then we can bring them back to the temple village"

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Dark hours of the morning after the battle with druids
Monday November 23rd, 2020 11:03:45 PM
Caelwyn and Haemir pose questions to Liam. The half-orc has no suggestions to offer on how to keep Connor from transforming. Sol knows that this is a supernatural ability that druids have, that others can't dispel or counter.

When Grindar suggests it, Cecil, the satyr, says he can't keep Connor asleep nearly long enough to get back to the village. Not even if you returned his pipes. But he might be able to convince Connor that going back with the Sentinels is the best thing to do, in the morning.

'Lil, Thorondir, and Akuno discuss philosophical differences. For a potentially life and death discussion, it is quite subdued.

It's very late at night, and everyone is tired. At least by taking their material possessions the Sentinels have limited the options their prisoners have.

Caelwyn suggests resting for a while here. But still does now know how to hold Connor.

Some of the others discuss mushrooms. Thorondir is not familiar with the one Cecil is describing, however.

All in all, the question remains as to what to do with Connor.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 11:18:15 AM
'Lil knows better than to keep havin' this talk in the wild, with prisoners, while they're all exhausted. She drops it.

She ain't got no idea what to do about Conner. She can club him with Ramona until he gets knocked out, but that seems extreme.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:28/32 d20+9=17 ;
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 3:30:01 PM
"Liam, Cecil may we join you"?
Haemir drops his pack and helps set up camp.
"Grindar, all joking aside I may try th'mushrooms, after all not everyone's a druid capable of communing with plants, for some of us - that's how we listen" he shrugs: "But I promise not tonight n' I'll tell you if n' when. Maybe you'll be so kind enough as t'watch owa me? Make sure I don't hurt meself or do something unbecoming, wouldn't wanna put anyone in danger"!

When the camp is ready Haemir sits and takes out a parchment, quill, ink bottle and dipping the pen the professor does his best to produce a well-written letter, then reads it out:

Connor,

My name is Haemir and I would like to extend an invitation for you to visit us at the Stone Temple, where we will ensure a warm welcome (assuming you don't get there before us). I am truly sorry for how our first meeting turned out, but please do not let that colour what I foresee will become a valuable and beneficial relationship.

A while ago my colleagues had a vision from queen Ma'ab, she said that her closest children had not, for the most part, adapted well to the grass and would need both protection and wisdom in the coming times. I believe that wisdom will flow from us all sharing and when we understand all sides fully a middle-ground where everyone can emerge content will reveal itself.

If so inclined then we will be honoured to host said meeting and act as intermediaries. If not then perhaps one day when you are ready. Meanwhile, we would humbly request that you please refrain from setting fires in other peoples homes!

All the best.

May Ma'ab watch over you.

Your servant.

Haemir Farydark.

"Stubborn people sometimes suffer from temporary hearing loss n' th'only opinion they hear is their own. So, just in case he gives us the slip without listening" Any adjustments/suggestions will be taken in to account (and the letter amended). "Hopefully we won't need it"...

Then he blows on the ink to dry it, folds it gently and tucks it in to Connor's component pouch (or pocket if he doesn't have one), fussing with it so a just a tiny bit pokes out - enough to catch his attention. In the unlikely-hood that Connor's pockets are 90% populated with mushrooms he will pocket 10% discreetly (Sleight of hand:17 including his +2 boost), coz that's just fate, but he won't take Connor' last bit and he's not actively looking for them!
Haemir knows the spell's duration (40 mins) and will ensure this letter is in place before then.

"I propose we untie Connor, keep an eye on him but leave him t'himself. If he comes around n' sees a campsite with everyone chatting n' laughing he's more likely to stay. If he can't see beyond his own demons let him flee"... He lets the sentence hang and points to the letter and on that note he breaks out some berries and shares them around.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 4:52:26 PM
Sol nods.

"I think Haemir's idea is a good one. We should try and encourage him to stay without forcing him, as I am not entirely sure we would be able to stop him anyway, should he try to escape..."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 5:42:06 PM
Thorondir shrugs and nods his head. "I must tell you that working with a group is much more complex. In the past I did things on my own and made my own decisions. You are much more generous with your adversaries than I am. Do what you will with Connor. Let us rest then, and hopefully Connor will be here in the morning."

Thorondir will take the watch during the middle of the night.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 5:50:06 PM
Without saying a word, Grindar stands up and unties the three captives, rolls the rope up and stows it in his backpack. He has a smile on his face, as he does so, and he thinks to himself but doesn't say a word, "I kinda suggested that untie them a while ago, seems I was on to something."

He says to his friends and former captives, "The dark elf's speaks wisdom, I know we are all tired, but let us put on a charade in hopes of convincing Conner to come to his senses and join us."

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Dark hours of the morning after the battle with druids
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 11:36:54 PM

'Lil is tired and knows her dudes are. They need to rest. Haemir seems to figure that they don't need to contain Connor if they can convince him to go where they want to go. (He gets no mushrooms, however.) Sol likes Haemir's idea. Thorondir is willing to go along with it. Grindar unties the captives.

Connor comes around, regaining his senses suddenly, and takes in the situation. He sees that his friends are talking with the Sentinels, and he clearly recognizes that some of his possessions are missing. His first reaction is to converse with Liam.

Druidic speakers: Highlight to display spoiler: {Connor asks Liam what's going on. Why is he conversing with the enemy? Maab didn't say to get chummy with the group trying to overturn tradition.}

Liam answers in Common, "Now, Connor, they seem decent enough folks. They healed me. And while they did take our stuff, they've promised it back after we talk with Virgil."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 41/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 11:49:47 PM
Caelwyn is willing to go along with this plan, watching as Connor comes to himself and speaks with Liam. "I hope you will listen to your friend's good sense. We are sorry for the way this all happened - I had hoped to be able to speak without blows being struck."

He is tired, but willing to take first watch. They may be trusting these folks to some degree, but Caleywn still feels some of the effect of the earth elemental's blow, and insists that someone be on guard at all times.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:27/27 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:28/32
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 9:02:54 AM
With all the chasing and fighting done the aches kick in and Haemir actually surprises himself realising he doesn't have the energy to care what the Connor does, they can't stop the druid and so he pretty much ignores him. 'Maybe I'm too exhausted? No it's because of what Grindar said': it took the wind out of his sails: 'The dark elf's speaks wisdom' ... 'dark elf'? Is that how they saw him now? The realisation leaves him with a sinking feeling in his stomach, it's nothing personal against dark-elves, he just didn't see himself as one. All 115 years of his life he'd had pale skin. It's only been what - a few days? What has the plains done to him? 'Gargul and Ma'ab watch over us' he thinks.

So, instead of mentioning the letter, or inviting Connor to sit and doing all the things he'd planned - Haemir drops the ball and simply sits in silence staring up at the stars and occasionally chewing his lip.

Fand is strangely quiet too preening herself with furtive glimpses at Sol now-&-then.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 5:43:15 PM
Thorondir turns a stern look towards Connor. In druidic: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Be careful what causes you choose. You attacked Genyielt, an ent bonded to Virgil. Virgil decides what is to be done. You dishonor the sacred wood by attempting to burn it. Sleep now, we will discuss this in the morning. If you are still here."}

"I will take the watch after Caelwyn. I'll probably see our friend here turn into a sparrow and fly away, though I hope not."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=2 ; d20=13 ; d20=11 ; d20=17 ;
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 6:34:05 PM
Akuno considers it all, then decides to take the last watch, so she gets sleep uninterrupted. "Please remember that I am a terrible watchman. I'd lose my ears if they weren't stuck on my head."

On her watch, she summons a pair of unseen servants in addition to her regular one and instructs them to ring bells if someone approaches. She also casts an alarm spell (loud version) in some place that makes sense. (lasts 10 hours)

Akuno perception: 1
Unseen 1: 13
Unseen 2: 11
Unseen 3: 17

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 6:39:52 PM
Sol can take first watch so he can also get uninterrupted sleep, however he has very little to add as all of this is rather outside his wheelhouse, so to speak.

He does spend time updating his journal with what they've seen so far and what they've learned.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 41/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=31 ;
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 10:30:25 PM
Caelwyn takes his watch as needed. If any of the druids are awake while he takes his watch, he will do his best to engage them in conversation and learn more about who they are and what they were up to. He is trying to convince them that it is in their best interest to stay with the group and return to the village, particularly Connor, if they are not yet fully convinced.

Diplomacy: Nat 20

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 10:47:35 PM
'Lil is also good to take watch whenever.

***

I'm feelin' super bad and could use a sub for Thursday and Friday this week. Hopefully I'll be back in one piece Monday.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Morning after the battle with druids
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 11:38:08 PM
The Sentinels talk with their captives for a bit, then set watches and rest. The night passes uneventfully, and (perhaps surprisingly) all of the captives are still there in the morning. The captives sleep if allowed to. Because the battle was joined so late at night, it is well into the morning before the spellcasters are well rested.

Connor asks permission to provide Liam with further healing. Unless prevented from doing so, Connor and Liam prepare spells for the day along with the spellcasters among the party.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d100=70 ; d8+4=6 ; d8+4=11 ; d100=27 ; d100=58 ; d8+5=10 ;
Thursday November 26th, 2020 5:25:25 AM
Haemir is happy to take any watch and heals Fand (6 points), Liam (11 points) and himself before bed. Assuming Connor found his note: "Of course Connor n' let us know if any o' yer need more... So, how'd ye feel about Virgil n' talking things over"?

Strangely Haemir feels quite content heading back. He packs his kit and asks questions of Connor's group about their thoughts, plans, experiences and engages with them during the journey back.

Fand scouts above.

'Lil (Rich subbing) 3d6=7 ;
Thursday November 26th, 2020 6:24:41 AM
Fully refreshed in the morning 'Lil packs up: "Glad you stuck around dude"!

After saying her morning prayers she checks if anyone needs any healing and if so channels (3d6 = 7hp). Eager to get back and sets off with a spring in her step,

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Thursday November 26th, 2020 12:09:41 PM
Grindar will take any watch needed.

Grindar sees Haemir winch a bit at his words, and realizes that somehow he struck a nerve. He has always been comfortable in his green skin, and never realized that someone may not be as comfortable in theirs. Of course he was their when His friend transformed from a surface elf to a drow, but the half-orc never thought anything of it, as Haemir seemed OK with the transformation. So he walks over to Haemir sits down and says,"I'm sorry if my words offended you brother. I used the term dark-elf as a reference to your skin tone, and not your character. You are a trusted friend, and as a fellow Sentinel, family. Your character has always been above reproach, and not one of us feels otherwise. I just assumed you were as comfortable in your skin as I am in mine. We both have skin tones and appearances that set some people on edge, but we are bigger then that! Rest well my friend and remember, we Sentinels stick together, and their isn't one among us, yourself included, that I wouldn't gladly lay down my life for of the need arose!"

'Lil (Rich subbing)
Thursday November 26th, 2020 8:40:43 PM
Haemir brightens up instantly to Grindar's words: "Hey, no offense taken brother, just a moment o' realisation. Thanks fer th'words though".
He adds as an afterthought: "Are ye sure you're only 15? Ye sound more like you're twice th'age! Quite some brain ye have there friend"!

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=9 ;
Thursday November 26th, 2020 10:54:20 PM
Caelwyn keeps his eyes open as they move out, watching for any sign of enemies. He is rather distracted by the captives, though, who he is still keen to keep an eye on.

Perception 9

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple
Friday November 27th, 2020 12:05:51 AM
Connor casts a healing spell on Liam, who is looking much better now.

The captives travel with the Sentinels back towards the Stone Temple, at a pace that should get everyone there sometime on the afternoon of the next day. If nothing happens on the way. But despite the attempts the Sentinels make to watch Connor, around mid-afternoon he becomes a stony version of himself and sinks into the ground. Liam and Cecil show no surprise, but stay with the Sentinels themselves.

"He's partial to elementals, he is." Liam comments.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Friday November 27th, 2020 12:42:09 AM
Akuno gathers her things, and decides that aftwr the days they've had, she can afford some luxury. She casts her floating disc, casts her unseen servants, and lassos them up to drag her disc.

She snuggles into a pillow or three and starts at the front pages of her well worn book of dresses and fashions.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Friday November 27th, 2020 6:17:02 AM
Grindar is glad that his words had the desired affect on his friend, and in answer he says, "Half-orcs mature and age faster the humans do, thanks to our less savory half, but even as a child, my parents always talked about how I talked bigger then my age."

Grindar is shocked when he sees Conner take on earth elemental form, but when he sees the reactions of Connor's friends, he goes with the flow.

'Lil (Rich subbing) d20+10=25 ;
Friday November 27th, 2020 8:29:18 PM
When Connor sinks into the earth 'Lil pauses for a second, shrugs and moves on:

"Huh... Well the dude's gotta work through his issues his own way"...

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Friday November 27th, 2020 10:11:57 PM
"Hmm, that explains it Grindar" Haemir gives the half-orc a proud smile:
"Ye have an old soul"! He raises his arm but it freezes when out of the corner of his eye he sees some sort of rocky-morph-elemental and no Connor then not even that. Gone.

"Do ye think being in rock-form often feeds his stubbornness"?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday November 27th, 2020 11:02:53 PM
Watching the druid descend into the ground, Thorondir shakes his head.
"There was no way to stop that escape, though we should have bound him to an oath. I am sure we will see him again, and next time he will be ready for us. We should discuss the battle strategies Haimer mentioned, when we are not with his associates."

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple
Saturday November 28th, 2020 10:04:01 AM
There being nothing else to do, the Sentinels head back towards the village at the Stone Temple with their two remaining -- and cooperative -- captives. Thorondir suggests preparing for the next encounter with Connor.

The Sargrass has little in the way of landmarks other than the crystal mountains, and the easiest way to find the village is to follow the foot of the mountains, so the Sentinel's way back is not the same as the path they took chasing the druids and satyr. With one short day and one full day of travel, they find themselves at the south end of the field of boulders that Roddy showed them when they met him -- the one where came from the other side of the mountains without crossing a mountain. It's getting dark, but the village is not much further.

The question becomes whether the party wants to press on or spend two to three hours travelling in darkness.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Sunday November 29th, 2020 2:39:12 PM
"The final leg of our journey can be a bit treacherous, mayhaps we should wait til morning's light to proceed, though it is sad to be this close to a bath, good food, and warm bed, and not be able to partake."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday November 29th, 2020 8:58:41 PM
Caelwyn disagrees respectfully with Grindar. "We are so close - better to press on and reach our journey's end. Then we can spend a night in greater safety, rather than risking the dangers of the wild's for another full night."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Sunday November 29th, 2020 10:30:22 PM
"I can rest or travel, it makes no difference to me. If we travel, I can watch from above as an owl again. Though it would be handy to have a signal to attack if we come across something hostile. Otherwise, I will wait until negotiations are finished with those who mean you harm."

Thorondir will wait until a decision is made and do what is asked of him.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Monday November 30th, 2020 8:45:57 AM
"Not been this way before I'll bow to everyone's better knowledge n' go with th'flow".
Haemir sighs. "Tis a shame, was hopin' Connor was travelling with us underground, but looks like he's fled" shrugs, "Sorry Liam n' Cecil but he forfeits his kit"! Haemir rumages through Connors spell component pouch and takes some fur, feathers and scales and unless anyone wants the oil of protection from electricity(?) he will take that too.
"As mercenary as it sounds, divvy up the spoils. No point carrying stuff we might need to use if we run into an aggressive Connor again".

---
(Link to old party funds sheet - everyone should have edit please take off stuff as/when you take stuff and & might wanna check wbl totals).

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Monday November 30th, 2020 1:33:22 PM
"We sure he's not still tagging along?" asks 'Lil. As much as she wants to get back to Stone Temple and outta the wilderness, she don't think it's a good idea to tromp along in the dark. "Probably safer to camp out," is her contribution to the talk, but she's willing to move along if that's what her dudes think is best.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Monday November 30th, 2020 2:23:59 PM
Sol shrugs.

"Travelling in darkness has it's own dangers Caelwyn, after all some of us cannot see well in the dark... I would almost certainly be a great hinderance if we attempted to travel during darkness. I would suggest that being careful and moving forward in the morning is the best course of action, unless I am the only one that cannot see in the dark..."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Monday November 30th, 2020 10:16:07 PM

Akuno looks about, suddenly realizing some people cared whether it was dark or not. "I can keep moving. I mean, my servants can keep moving. Whichever is fine with me!"

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d100=62 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 12:15:36 AM
Grindar recommends stopping for the night. 'Lil backs up this recommendation, although she's a bit worried about Connor being out there and isn't hard over on stopping. Sol also prefers to stop, as he's worried about meeting trouble in the dark.

Caelwyn disagrees respectfully with Grindar.

Akuno sees no reason to stop, although she's perfectly willing to do so. Thorondir states no preference whether to stop or continue. Neither does Haemir -- although he suggests distributing the items confiscated from Connor. The captives don't try to weigh in on the subject of stopping (or of Connor's items, for that matter).

With a marginal preference for stopping over continuing, the group stops for the night. They should reach the village around mid-morning.

Here is a map. If I have done things right, you should be able to place your characters on it as you want to be arranged for the night. You may move Liam and Cecil to a different spot. I'm also interested in the watches.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 9:37:15 AM
'Lil can't see no better in the dark than she could before, so she still wants to take first or last watch.

When it's her turn to sleep, she props herself up against a boulder, tryin' to make sure all her dudes and her face all angles.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=21 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 10:59:20 AM
"I will spend the night up there." Thorondir points to the top of the boulder above Lil. "I will be an owl, to help see and hear during my watch. I'll watch during the middle of the night, when it is darkest. If I sense danger, I will 'hoot' three times. I'll then wait to see from your actions if it is an enemy I should attack. Otherwise, I will keep watch."

With a sudden movement Thorondir wildshapes into an owl. He gives out a loud 'hoot' and flies around the perimeter of the camp to scout it out. He then flies up to the top of the boulder and settles in. (how tall is it?) He can wildshape twice for 5 hours, so he will spend the night as an owl unless something happens.

Perception 21

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 5:17:17 PM
Sol smiles at Thorondir's ability, he had seen it before, obviously, but not paid that much attention to it before, he also desires to take either a first or last watch so as to be more able to refresh his spells... after all, what good is a Wizard with no magic?

He spends an hour or so jotting in his journal again, clearly trying to keep up notes on everything that has happened and is going on while it's still fresh in his memory.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+1=19 ; d20+7=19 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 6:52:46 PM
"I'll watch just after or before Thorondir".

Fand randomly patrols the air (on other peoples watches) as-&-when she wakes up, but will perch on a rock vigilant when Haemir watches.
--

(perception:19 & 19)

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21 d20+12=31 ; d20+8=19 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 8:16:32 PM
Grindar isn't fussy about when he takes his watch, so he offers to take second to the last watch, along with Llew.

Grindar's perception 31
Llew's perception 19

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=22 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 9:04:37 PM
Caelwyn is content to camp for the night, if the group believes it to be the best decision. He offers to take the second watch, where he should still be able to see decently well thanks to his dim-light vision.

He asks Liam to shift over a bit, as he wants to put himself against a pair of boulders to keep watch, and he doesn't want to be in anyone's way as they sleep. He also wants to be sure that everyone in the party is within the circle of watchers, and will be clearly visible and easy to defend throughout the night, if need be.

Tonight, of all nights, Caelwyn's eyes are sharper even than those of Thorondir in owl form. Nothing moves in or around their camp without his notice.

Perception: Natural 20

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 11:46:00 PM

Akuno watches Thorondir and Grindar, and by extenstion, Aewen and Llew carefully. She also considers her other companions thoughtfully. She's unusually focused on something, and from time to time bits of magic flares from her fingertips. She finally stops, and frumps her way into the middle of the camp. She mouths some words, almost like she's rehearsing. Her tail is an absolute pullball, and her usually well groomed ears and fur

"I need help.", she blurts out suddenly. "It's time for me to learn new spells. I can tell. My tail does this... thing." She points at her butt. Her tail is still quite poofy indeed. "I don't know .. why.. but I feel bad that the animals are always under attack. I was thinking of learning a spell that many princesses in my books use, to both be gorgeous AND protected. The wizard name for it is mage armor. I would work good on Llew and Aewen."

She frowns.

"But I need someone to pull my tail. That's how it works. I -think- of what I want to be able to do, my tail gets pulled, and BAM. It's in my head." She fidgets. "But it hurts and I'm afraid to do it. Someone please?" She closes her eyes shut tight.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d8=6 ; d20=13 ; d4=1 ;
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 12:11:46 AM
The boulders are typically three to five feet across and equally tall. It would slow a person down to try to go over one, and the rocks can give cover to someone crouching or small.

Before picking a comfortable spot -- not too far away from the others nor crowded against anyone -- Akuno shares a problem with the group.

After working on the problem, watches are set, with at least two awake at a time.

During the early part of the night, there is some noise outside of the camp. 'Lil and Haemir are awake. Make perception checks, with everyone but 'Lil, Haemir, and Fand at a -10 penalty.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21 d20+2=10 ; d20-2=5 ;
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 5:59:48 AM
Trying very hard not to laugh, Grindar reaches out and gives Akuno's tail a tug. He's careful not to pull too hard, as he doesn't want to hurt his friend too much, but he does as she asks and pulls hard enough to cause some pain.

Grindar perception 10
Llew perception 5

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 10:40:37 AM
(Both Fand & Haemir made perceptions in last post: 19). If they see/hear anything Fand will take off and circle above whilst Haemir shouts loud enough to wake everyone: "Sentinels INCOMING"! Hand-bow ready he casts Bloodwitch Lore and keeps looking (darkvision:120').

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+8=22
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 11:45:02 AM
'Lil ain't ever heard of no spell casters what need their *anything* pulled to cast a spell. This cat girl was a weird one, but it was becomin' clear that her heart was in the right place.

She watches with extreme curiosity as Grindar pulls her tail.

She also wonders how Thorondir is gonna spend the whole night flying around. She knows elves don't sleep like the rest of us, but they gotta rest in their own way too, don't they? She's gonna ask him, but he turns into an owl. She don't speak owl, so she makes a note to ask him later.

She spends her watch climbing on various rocks to get a better vantage point of the land around her. Her own childhood was spent in Hook City, which has precious few rocks to climb on. She briefly ponders on how much fun it would have been when she was a girl.

Edit: Perception = 22

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20=1 ;
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 12:25:37 PM
Owl-Thorondir spends his time perched on top of the boulder resting while others are on watch. Upon hearing Haemir's warning, he launches silently into the air and starts to circle the campsite.

Perception 1

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20-8=10 ;
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 10:58:31 PM
Caelwyn starts awake at Haemir's shout, looking around with blurry vision to see what is happening.

Perception: 10

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d20+6=21 ; d20+18=23 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 12:03:02 AM
Didn't mean to make folks who had already rolled perception give up good rolls when asking for checks. Grindar was the only one high enough for it to affect, though, accounting for who's asleep. . .
-----
Grindar pulls Akuno's tail, as requested, while the others look on or busy themselves with their own concerns. 'Lil watches with bemusement. Cecil watches with disapproval, or perhaps anger. Once the show is over, without much tangible result, everyone falls into their nighttime routine.

At first, the night passes much as most. After a couple of hours, though, there is a distant noise.

The noise isn't much, but 'Lil notices it and Grindar wakes. Their reaction alerts Haemir, who loudly shouts to the remainder of the camp. "Sentinels, INCOMING!" A DC 15 perception check each will wake the rest of the group next round so they may act in the following.

Haemir casts a quick spell (gaining +1 on concentration, dispel, necromancy, fear effects, and touch attacks for several rounds).

Among the grasses and boulders, it is difficult to see far. There is no obvious source for the noise.

'Lil, Grindar, and Haemir -- perception roll, DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Liam and Cecil, the captives, whisper to each other briefly while Haemir is yelling.}

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21 d20+12=28 ; d20+8=11 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 6:36:45 AM
Llew is seemingly dead to the world in his slumber (Perception 11), so Grindar nudges him with his foot as he stands up with Bwyell in hand. (Grindar has the endurance feat) and looks around he notices the captives whispering (perception 28) Llew wakes up because of the prodding and jumps to his feet as well.
Grindar shouts out, "If that is you Connor, we have no desire to make an enemy of you, we only want to give you a chance to explain your actions to Virgil. That said, If you wish to fight, we will show no mercy!

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+1=19 ; d20+7=27 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 8:35:53 AM
Just prior to the disturbance Haemir was thinking about something his father used to say about broken people and was also hoping that if/when Connor did show he wouldn't try to make his point with violence again, there was stubborn and then there was crazy! The only thing on Wold that stood between Connor and peace was the druid himself! Having shown him that the Sentinels bore no ill will the professor feared another attack would cause the party to loose their desire to pull punches - then came Grindar's's affirmation about 'no mercy'. 'Yep called it' he thinks, but if honest he realised the half-orc mirrored his own intolerance for the stubborn druid. The only difference being all this blood-witchery stuff was new to him, he hadn't really known how the spiders ... or quite what he was capable of but the thought surprisingly came with a sense of calmness that solidified his resolve - not to loose himself!

His sharp night-vision (something he was still getting used to) revealed nothing out there but he sees the owl take off (Perception:19) and adds to what Grindar says: "There's no difference between a rabid dog n' a warmonger, If that's ye Connor show yerself n' be done with this creepin around 'afor someone gets hurt"!
Then he says in elven: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Thorondir, remember hold till we use an anagram of yer name please brother!}"

Meanwhile Fand must be super-close as she catches everything: (nat:20 - for perception:27).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=21 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 9:54:47 AM
As Thorondir becomes fully awake he leaps from the boulder and swoops silently across the sky.
[I'm confused when he can make a move action, but when he can he will glide silently slowly gaining altitude.]
Perception 21

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20=5 ; d20=4 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 10:09:23 AM

Akuno snores soundly. Her hands chase dream fish, and her leg kicks once or twice before she rolls over in her bedroll. Her servant, being used as a pillow, is equally oblivious.

Perception, 5.
Perception, 4. (Unseen Servant)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20-9=-5 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 12:50:45 PM
Sol doesn't even get close to waking up. He remains resolutely asleep.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=11 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 10:09:04 PM
Caelwyn is still very groggy, and is slow to get up.

Perception 11

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d20=8 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 11:53:00 PM
The sound changes a bit, as if whatever's making it has changed course a bit. Liam quietly says, "I think you've let it know just where we are."

'Lil, Grindar, Haemir, and Thorondir may act this round. They still do not see a source for the noise.

The satyr, Cecil, gets up and moves to Akuno, saying, "Miss, you've got to wake up."

'Lil and Haemir: Highlight to display spoiler: {If Cecil's actions seem threatening, 'Lil and Haemir are in position for an attack of opportunity as he moves.}

Akuno, Sol, and Caelwyn wake this round on a DC 10 perception check.

'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Map d20+8=27 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 1:51:31 AM
'Lil notes them two talking to each other, but about what Domi only knows. Don't seem like a big deal to her, but she keeps an eye on them. The satyr's guard is down as he moves to Akuno, but he don't seem threatening. Still, she moves to where the cat girl's sleeping just in case.

She doesn't let her eyes off of...wherever that sound is coming from, but nudges Akuno gently with her foot. "Yea, wakey wakey your highness. We got company."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=29 ; d20+15=27 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 12:04:26 PM
The owl glides silently off the boulder, and with gentle flaps of its wings it starts to gain speed and altitude (double move to 120 feet away from noise).

Perception 29
Stealth 27

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+8=23 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 10:36:56 PM
Seeing Caelwyn rise Haemir shakes his head in admiration/disbelief of the half-elf's ability to sleep, personally he wouldn't have managed any rest in that armor, no wonder he was groggy...

The satyr catches Haemir's eye as he approaches Akuno but he notes he's not the only one watching Cecil, believing 'Lil has the situation he moves around her (so as to not block her) and gently kicks Sol awake as he passes (but not too gently) then vaults up on to a boulder for a better view (acrobatics:23). He whispers loud enough for the wizard to hear "Sol, we got company..." and uses his hand-bow to show which direction.

Fand takes off and flies towards the noise to investigate (unceremoniously landing on any other sleepers briefly before doing so).

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20=7 ; d20=12 ;
Saturday December 5th, 2020 12:54:22 PM
Although her unseen servant fails to aid her sleepyness awaken, Lils boot and Cecil both help bring Akuno to something resembling consciousness.

"I.. huh.. what? I don't want to go home mom, the dance isn't over yet..." Gradually, she realizes she isn't dancing the night away, but sleeping on the ground with armed allies standing over her. She groggily pulls herself to her feet.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple
Saturday December 5th, 2020 3:24:46 PM
Akuno, Caelwyn and Sol are woken by the kicks, prods, or unceremonious landings of their companions and may act next round. Thorondir flies off, somewhat away from the noise. 'Lil and Grindar ready themselves for whatever's coming, Grindar waking Llew as well. Haemir hops up on a rock to see better, making himself more easily seen in the process. Cecil splits his gaze between Akuno and the direction of the noise. Liam stays down on the ground as he casts a spell.

Knowledge: Arcana DC 26 or Spellcraft DC 16 Highlight to display spoiler: {Liam cast a barkskin spell.}

No one is particularly surprised when Connor steps into view. As soon as he sees the others, he casts a spell.

Haemir, or the others on a perception DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {As Connor finishes his spell, a stone structure appears around Haemir. It is fused into the rock he is standing on. From the outside, it rises about ten feet above the rock. From the inside, there is more than four feet diameter of room, but no visible outlet -- even looking up.}

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=23 ; d20+15=33 ;
Saturday December 5th, 2020 10:02:47 PM
Thorondir flies silently and slowly loops back towards the group, staying about 120 feet way from the group as he looks and listens for the anagram Haemir promised.

I suppose I should have asked what an anagram means. I wonder if it is something that rhymes, or perhaps it is my name said backwards. Ridnoroht, seems difficult to say. I know I have heard what an anagram is before. Thorondir concentrates as he flies, the air moving silently over his wings.

Perception 23
Stealth 33

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=20 ; d20+8=9 ; d20+3=14 ;
Sunday December 6th, 2020 10:35:11 PM
Caelwyn advances on Connor quickly, with his shield and trident at the ready. He tries one last time to reason with the man. "Connor, stop this! You and your friends must answer to Virigil and the others for what you have done, but you will be treated fairly. Don't risk any more bloodshed, you cannot overcome all of us!"

*If Connor responds favorably, Caelwyn will withhold his attack. If not, Caelwyn will attack with his trident when in range.

Diplomacy: 20
Attack: 9, Damage: 14
Attack:

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Active:Blink 1/5 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 - d20+15=33 ; d20+1=8 ; d20+7=11 ; d100=98 ;
Sunday December 6th, 2020 11:51:08 PM
When everything turns pitch black and Haemir finds his hand pressed against cool stone it takes him a couple of seconds to realise he'd been encased in rock. Speaking arcane words The Wold shifts and the rock becomes transparent, in fact everything looks different, muted and indistinct, with colours blurring into each other as if viewing everything through frosted glass. Rolling from the rock he takes a few steps when suddenly everything shifts back to normal and the professor appears next to a boulder. Using it for cover he decides to let Connor think he's trapped for now...

Fand circles overhead (perception:11) lands nearby and trots along the ground till she's next to him.
--

(Haemir Coalesce's 2 x 2nd level slots to cast: Blink and move).

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple
Monday December 7th, 2020 7:11:07 AM

Here is a map. If I have done things right, you should be able to place your characters on it.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Monday December 7th, 2020 10:50:41 AM

Akuno sees high-skill magical dueling happen around her and realizes she's outclassed, yet again. She casts mage armor, then waits.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d20+7=15 ; d8+1=5 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 11:52:10 AM
Nope, this dude already had his chance to surrender and behave. He doesn't get a second one. 'Lil immediately summons a ghostly, glowing version of Ramona and hurls it at Conner. She then wordlessly closes the distance between her and him.

**

Standard: Spiritual weapon on Conner. Hits AC 15 for 5 damage.
Move: Move

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+13=19 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 3:09:21 PM
Sol, having awakened and seeing things getting messy immediately attempts to leap into action to help, and cast's *Charm Person* on Connor.

((Save DC - 17 he get's +5 due to being attacked by us))

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=21 ; d20+15=22 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 3:51:30 PM
Thorondir loops back to the south, flying to the west as he make his way around the group. He listens carefully for the anagram, hoping he has finally figured out what it is. Caelwyn spoke to Connor, but Thorondir is fairly certain no anagram was uttered.

Perception 21
Stealth 22

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21 d20+12=30 ; d20+13=27 ; d8+7=15 ; d20+4=23 ; d4+1=2 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 6:39:10 PM
Perception 30
Grindar has had enough of Connors shenanigans. The Sentinels tried to play nice, he was even given fair warning to not attack, but when he sees him attack Haemir with a spell, his patience ran officially out. He charges the druid and makes a two handed swing hitting AC 27 for 15 damage. As he charges, he growls, "We didn't want you as an enemy, but you forced our hand!"

Meanwhile, Llew follows his master, and lashes out at Connor with a claw, hitting AC 23 for 2 damage.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d20+16=22 ; d20+6=10 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 10:23:44 PM
Thorondir flies around waiting for a signal from Haemir, while Haemir tries to hide so that Connor does not know that he has escaped his prison.

Caelwyn advances on Connor but offers him a chance to resolve things peacefully. It seems likely that Connor was responding well, from what he expected would be a position of strength, but 'Lil and Grindar are not in the mood for talk. Caelwyn's attack misses.

Haemir cleverly escapes Connor's "trap" and hopes to be unobserved. However, he decides to hide behind a different rock than the one he escaped, and has to cross a bit of ground to do so. Even with the grasses obscuring his vision, it seems likely Connor noticed.

Akuno casts a protective spell and waits. Sol tries to calm Connor with a different spell, but does not do so. Not while Connor's being attacked.

'Lil, Grindar, and Llew land their blows on Connor. Human and unarmored, Connor is fairly easily hit. 'Lil does notice, however, that he has some magical protection -- just not enough to save him this time.

"This is on you, then," Connor says to Grindar. It is difficult to make out the entire phrase -- Connor is transforming as he says it. As a towering earth man, he sinks into the ground.

Liam utters an expletive, and says, "They're upsetting Connor, Cecil. Can you help them?" He does not take any action.

Cecil, saying "We've got to get you away from here," tries to grab Akuno. But he doesn't even come close to succeeding.

=====
Connor -- 22 hp damage
Liam -- unhurt
Cecil -- unhurt

EDIT: Here is a map.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=10 ; d20+11=17 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 11:03:19 PM
Caelwyn watches this occur with some astonishment, looking around at the ground - he fully expects Connor to pop out and attack them. He turns back to Liam and Cecil. "What in Domi's name is he doing? We don't want to hurt your friend, but this is getting out of hand already. Can't you talk some sense into him?"

He turns to Haemir. "Can you send Fand to the village? We are close, and she could bring Virgil and others to assist us here."

He continues to look around for Connor. "C'mon, man, give it up! Whatever power you think you possess, you can't beat us! You can see your friends are unharmed - don't cause more bloodshed needlessly!"

Perception: 10
Diplomacy: 17

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d20+7=11 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+7=19 ; d8+3=4 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 1:30:59 PM
'Lil has an immediate flash of anger when Conner vanishes, but she tamps it down. That style of fighting ain't necessarily cowardly, no matter how much she don't like it.

She hopes Haemir has enough air in there. Stone sense was one spell she was pretty sure wouldn't be needed anytime soon since rock is so rare out here, but she guesses Haemir found some. It'll take some time before she can prepare one, and if that stone cell he's in is air tight, he won't make it that long. Cae has a good idea. "Yea, good idea! We need someone who can get Haemir outta that rock."

Then, Cecil tries to grab Akuno. 'Lil ain't got no more straws. "GET YOUR HANDS OFF HER! I SWEAR TO DOMI YOU LAY ONE MORE HAND ON HER I WILL STAB YOU UNTIL THERE IS NOTHING LEFT TO STAB." She takes a breath. "Then I'll get out the hammer." She hopes the point is made. She moves back towards the camp site, not wanting all the party's muscle to be away from the casters. Her trained reflexes are ready to stab out at anything that pops out of the ground.

Readied attack: Hit AC 10 - almost certainly a miss. The spiritual hammer has no target and floats along with her until there is one.

AoO in case: Hit AC 11 (miss) and 18 for 4 damage.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 5:07:22 PM
Sol, uncertain what else he can do.

"I have no way of getting Haemir out of the rock short of giving one of you increased strength, if you feel that would be helpful let me know, otherwise I will attempt to subdue Connor again!"

If someone wants the extra strength, he will cast Bull's Strength on them, if none do, he will prepare to cast Hold Person on Connor, if he reappears anywhere within range before Sol's next turn. ((Will Save DC - 17))

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 8:50:09 PM
Grindar shakes his head in discussed, and cries out, "We had no desire to fight you, and yet you attacked us anyway then you saunter into camp as if nothing happened, and wonder why we attacked you! Either your the biggest whitehand I've ever had the misfortune of meeting, or you're cracked in the skull. Either way you ain't got any shade dude!" He then turns to Lil and says, "Hold on sister, I think Cecil is acting with some real shade, and trying to help Akuno." He than turns to Cecil and asks, "What do you know that you haven't told us yet?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20+10=28 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 9:04:18 PM

Akuno tries to reconcile the goats words with his actions.

He seems concerned, but she has no idea if he's being sincere. She sniffs the air loudly and daintily removes his hand. "Unhand me, sir goat." The words are probably insulting, but they are said in a very neutral tone, considering that Akuno is Akuno. She's giving Cecil a chance to prove his intentions. When 'Lil makes her threats, Akuno nods in her direction. "I'd believe her. Tell me why I should run with you, but don't presume to use force on royalty again. That way takes you to the guillotine!" She adds some concern to her voice, emphasizing again that Cecil is being given a chance to explain what he meant.

She readies an action however. If he tries to get aggressive, (takes an attack action such as grab or whatever), she will cast glitterdust, catching both he and Liam.

Will 17 vs Blind. Can save each round. Everyone is covered in beautiful, princessy glitter. (Cast defensively success, ,28 vs 19)

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Active:Blink 2/5 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+1=20 ; d100=67 ; d100=47 ; d4=2 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 9:35:58 PM
Haemir steps out: "I'm ok by th'way", but as he walks through the grass he suddenly vanishes - mid sentence, "Sorry if I worr" ... ((pooff)) gone ...
Then several feet further he reappears shrugging: "-een th'devil n' deep blue sea but all weft-&-web"! Looking quite content, as if he'd explained his point adequately the professor continues: "I think Fand is more helpful here".

Slicing his finger along his loaded hand-bow he lets the dark blood build up and before it starts to drip he speaks arcane words, forms a pattern with his fingers and the blood transforms into a black vaporous mist, writhing and hovering beside him as if awaiting orders...
---

(Haemir Coalesce's 2 x cantrips: 'Detect Poison' & 'Arcane Mark' locking them for the day - to cast: Spectral Hand).

(Perception:20 if needed).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=11 ; d20+15=29 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 9:44:20 PM
Thorondir continues his flight looking and listening.
Perception 11
Stealth 29

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 11:09:32 PM
Caelwyn moves back toward Cecil and Liam. "Some communication would be helpful right about now, you two. What is he doing? And you better have a good reason for laying a hand on a member of our party!"

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d4=3 ; d20+10=18 ; d20+10=28 ; d6+8=12 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 11:23:32 PM
When Connor disappears again, Caelwyn asks Liam and Cecil for some sort of explanation, and suggests they intervene. He also asks Haemir to send Fand for help.

'Lil is angry, but controls it. She worries about Haemir being trapped in the stone tower that suddenly appeared, and seconds the idea that someone go for help. She also snaps at Cecil for trying to move Akuno away from the fighting. Well, not so much the away from the fighting part as the physically trying to move part.

Sol prepares to cast a spell if an opportunity presents itself.

Grindar is frustrated and annoyed with Connor, but wonders what Cecil isn't telling them.

Akuno tries to reconcile the goats words with his actions. Is he trying to help her, or being aggressive? She's ready to cast a spell on him if it's the latter.

Haemir admits to those who hadn't already realized it that he has escaped Connor's trap. He casts a spell. (Haemir needs to roll to see if his spell was cast on the ethereal plane -- 20% chance it was.)

Thorondir continues silently flying as he's looking and listening.

". . ." Liam starts to speak, but apparently doesn't know where to begin.

Cecil seems to realize that he has made people angry. He leaves Akuno and moves away from 'Lil, not turning his back to her.

Connor's attacks come from below; Grindar is suddenly slammed for 12 points of damage.

=====

Here is a map. I put 'Lil at K7 based on Carl's description; she seemed to have disappeared from the map. Remember that in the grass, those PCs that are not druids move at half their normal rate. (Then again, so does Cecil.)

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d20+6=7 ;
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 10:26:29 AM
*Weird. I'm almost positive I moved myself yesterday.

It's real possible she went too far with Cecil, but something's tryin'a kill them and she'll worry about manners later. "Grindar, maybe we should stick together over here. He's at a big advantage if we stay split up like this."

She readies an attack, but she's pretty distracted by all the looking around she's doing (nat 1).

While she waits for Conner to make a move, she stands absolutely still. She figures he can't see and is relyin' on feeling them move around to attack.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+10=20 ; d20+15=24 ;
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 3:27:35 PM
Flying to B18, Thorondir wiggles his talons and casts a spell. He waits though, and does not call down a bolt yet. He has yet to hear an anagram, but it seems like they are battling an enemy. Time will tell he guesses.

Call Lightning - duration 5 minutes, able to call 5 bolts each 3d6 damage.

Perception 20
Stealth 24

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+7=10 ; d6-1=3 ;
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 7:13:40 PM
Sol is genuinely a little lost as to what to do, so he doesn't move, merely stays where he is and prepares his staff to use Hands of the Apprentice if he sees Connor.

10 to hit, on the off chance it does, 3 damage

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 27/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21 d20+9=12 ; d20+9=23 ; d8+5=8 ; d8+5=9 ; d20+4=22 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+3=19 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=2 ; d6+1=4 ;
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 8:28:23 PM
If Grindar has a chance to attack Connor before he sinks back into the ground he will unleash a full round attack hitting AC 12 with his main hand, and 23 with his off hand for 8 and 9 damage respectfully. Llew will also attack hitting AC 22 and 15 with his claws, and AC 19 with his bite, inflicting 2 and 2 damage with his claws, and 4 with his bite.

If no attack is possible he will head over to L9, and Llew will go to K9.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 8:58:29 PM

Akuno scoots in a little closer to Sol. She's not sure why, but she reaches up and puts her small hand on his. She squeezes as tight as she can. "There's not a lot we can do, is there, Mister Wizard?" She surveys the ground and swallows. "Connor has seen us fight and is confident enough he can beat us all, I think. So we just need to make sure we don't become a burden to those better suited to fighting him." She smiles a little, but her little palm is cold and sweaty. She pulls her hand back and begins to cast a spell. "Protect me, Wizard san."

Full round: Summon Monster II.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d20=19 ; d20=8 ; d20+10=26 ; d6+8=11 ; d8=5 ; d20+10=21 ; d20+10=24 ; d6+8=12 ; d6+8=13 ;
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 11:33:05 PM
Caelwyn moves towards Liam and Cecil, looking for answers.

'Lil suggests the party stick close to each other, and stands very still.

Thorondir prepares to call down lightning, if he gets a target and a clear go-ahead.

Sol prepares to act, but sees no target.

Grindar sees no target, so he moves and Llew follows.

Akuno asks Sol for protection and casts a spell. Her monster appears and can act on her turn.

Haemir continues flickering between planes.

Cecil remains quiet and does not act.
Liam says, "Cecil already gave you the best advice we have. Run. If you won't take that advice, then throw down your weapons and convince him you really do want to talk." Liam puts some distance between himself and the group.
Sense motive DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {The captives are conflicted and unsure of which side to take.}

Although the Sentinels are in a group, the attacks from below do not stop. Grindar is hit twice for 12 and 13 damage, respectively. The attack came without warning. Connor did not rise from the ground to attack, nor present an attackable target in the process. The ground did not show any indication he was moving below it.

EDIT: My bad, Grindar was only hit once for 12 points. Connor had to move in position and could not make a full attack.

=====
Connor -- 22 hp damage
Liam -- unhurt
Cecil -- unhurt

Here is a map. I moved several characters as best I could based on the descriptions.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d3=2 ; d20+6=24 ; d20+6=16 ; d6+4=5 ; d6+4=8 ; d20+10=17 ;
Thursday December 10th, 2020 2:21:54 PM
Flying to G-11, Thorondir casts a spell when he sees an attack from below.

Summon Nature's Ally III - summon 2 Earth elementals to attack Connor

Elemental 1 Hit AC 24 Damage 5
Elemental 2 Hit AC 16 Damage 8

Perception 17

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Active:Blink 4/5 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d100=31 ; d20+6=26 ; d100=41 ; d20+1=6 ;
Thursday December 10th, 2020 6:46:03 PM
Haemir's accent always slips when he's stressed - finding his way safely back he pops into view saying:
"Think this though Connor, either we kill ye - which we don't wanna do! Or ye kill a few of us n' make th'rest enemies, word gets out o' your murder n' arson n' things get worse from there.
Or - ye and Virgil talk this out!

I dunno how that turns out, but we're not yer enemy n' we don't have interests in changing the grass! We haven't taken sides... But I do reckon Queen Ma'ab will be real interested if you start killing her envoy's. Yer choice Connor. Right now yer jus' makin a point that ye have magic n' fists, but guess what? Might don't mean right! Seems like ye need us more than ye realise, if this is yer best idea"!

He's done fighting a man that isn't evil even if he is a stubborn blockhead. He strikes a pose and awaits death or wisdom. He hadn't given much thought to what pose he wanted to die in, but now that he did he decided it should involve a few hearty wenches serving significant amounts of ale.
---

If Connor ignores Haemir and attacks someone else he casts 'Dispel Magic' on the ground area that moves/wirthes/or even looks at him in a funny way - to try to end one ongoing spell (Dispel Check:26 nat:20! - includes Bloodwitch Lore).
If he hits Haemir (his blink won't nullify any hits on him this round) he tries a touch attack (6) but misses (so does nothing).

([i]Reply to Ref: % for arcane fail & blink were in header - the two % rolls on my last post & on this one, I only mention them if they interfere (like when Haemir failed to cast a cure a while ago).

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20=16 ; d20+11=20 ; 2d6=5 ;
Thursday December 10th, 2020 8:58:24 PM
Caelwyn is torn. He immediately recognizes that this is an enemy they cannot fight easily, and there is a real chance someone could be killed. However, he is not sure if he can convince his companions to put down their weapons again, or even if that is the right decision. He places a hand on Grindar's shoulder, healing some of his wounds.

"Connor!" Caelwyn tries one final time. "You are not invulnerable, whatever you may think. And you cannot expect us to not defend ourselves. This is going to go badly for you, in the end. Stop this before someone is badly hurt. Your friends, as you can see, are just fine, and we intend to keep it that way. Please, accompany use back to the village and end this!"

Diplomacy: 20
Grindar heals 5 HP

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 20/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21 d20+11=19 ; d8+7=12 ; d20+4=6 ;
Thursday December 10th, 2020 9:40:37 PM
An idea pops in to Grindar's head, as he feels the lay of hands take affect. he passes Haemir and climbs up on the boulder. he figures as a large elemental, Connor would have to present a target if he wishes to attack anyone. Once on top of the boulder, he readies an action, to bring his ax down on Connor's head should he get the chance. He shouts out to his friends suggesting they do likewise.

At his master's orders Llew does likewise.

Grindar's readied attack hits AC 19 for 12 damage
Llew's readied attack hits AC 6 (miss)

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d6=5 ; d6=3 ; d6=2 ;
Thursday December 10th, 2020 10:49:09 PM
'Lil thinks earth elementals can go through stone too, but maybe not?

Either way, she figures it's more important to get Grindar healed, even if that means she gets hit herself. She channels positive energy she she don't have to go get close to Grindar, knowin' her magic won't penetrate the ground and heal Conner too.

She ushers Sol, Akuno, and Haemir to follow suit like Grindar and get some distance between them and the ground.

***

Standard: Channel Positive Energy - 10HP healed to all party members 'cept Thorondir cuz he's flyin'.
Move: She'll escort the casters to a rock, but ain't gonna pick'em up and move'em herself.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d6=2 d20+10=27 d6+8=13
Friday December 11th, 2020 12:06:58 AM
Thorondir tries to cast a spell while flying. Summon Nature's Ally takes a full round to cast, and cannot normally be cast in the same round with movement. Assuming that Thorondir glides, he may attempt to cast the spell but must succeed on a DC 18 concentration check, or he may land before casting the spell. As a full round spell, the creatures summoned would not be able to act until the post, anyway, if he wants to make the check.

Haemir decides that he is not going to attack Connor and tries to talk Connor instead. Connor is not within sight, so Haemir must wait to see how he reacts. Haemir does not think that casting dispel magic at a general area will be successful. It must target a spell, creature, or object. Greater dispel magic may be cast on an area. His spectral hand is functioning.

Caelwyn heals Grindar and attempts to convince Connor to stop his attack. Connor is not within sight, so Caelwyn must wait to see how he reacts.

Grindar climbs onto a boulder, and has Llew do the same. On top of the rock, he readies an attack in case Connor shows himself.

'Lil channels positive energy to heal the party members within 30' of her. She knows the energy can't penetrate total cover. She tries to get Sol, Akuno, and Haemir to climb like Grindar did. Haemir complies.

The creature Akuno summoned last round appears. A pair of ponies, that stand about nickering to each other. Akuno then creates and climbs onto a floating disc.

Sol continues to wait for an opportunity to cast at or attack Connor.

Cecil causes the sound of marching to be heard -- a lot of marching, perhaps 40 people. It is centered on the ground near Caelwyn and 'Lil. Will save DC 14 - Highlight to display spoiler: {The sound
Is illusory. }

Liam waits, tapping the ground nervously with one foot.

Connor moves and attacks again, this time targeting 'Lil. 'Lil is hit for 13 points of damage.

When the elemental attacks from underneath the ground, it is not as if you don't see the attack itself. But the attack comes without warning and does not give an opportunity to react, even with a readied action, before the target is gone. You have a good idea of where Connor must be -- that is, which square of ground he is under.

=====
Edited ~9:00 AM Eastern.

Connor -- 22 hp damage
Liam -- unhurt
Cecil -- unhurt

Here is a map.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d3=2 ;
Friday December 11th, 2020 12:09:58 AM

Akuno finishes her spell. She summons a pair of ponys.

"Stay.", she says firmly. She isn't looking for them to attack, she just wants more bodies to confuse Connors below ground shenanigans. She then casts floating disk, and climbs atop it. She can do without the pillows for now.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Active:Blink 4/5 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+15=24 ; d20+11=21 ;
Friday December 11th, 2020 7:04:11 AM
Since all Haemir did was talk this round (if poss) he'll climb a rock & try to figure what Connor is doing. It's clearly not a normal earth elemental as they would be able to respond to its appearance..!?

(Spellcraft:24 & Knowledge Arcana:21 includes 'Guide' bonus).

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=5 ;
Friday December 11th, 2020 10:32:51 AM
'Lil wasn't sure she'd ever see a use for Akuno's floaty disk spell that wasn't keeping her feet from hurtin', but here we are...what a day this has been.

"You got anymore of those, Akuno? I'd like Sol to get off the ground too." 'Lil intends to be the last one off the ground. Wouldn't do for a cleric of bravery to get to safety before she makes sure her dudes are safe, ya know? She releases another wave of positive energy, figurin' she'd try and keep her health topped up as she acted as the bait. Domi's power rushes out of her, more potent than usual.

"Whew! Thanks for that, boss!" She grins skyward.

***

Standard: channel positive energy for 17 healing in a 30' radius

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=6 ;
Friday December 11th, 2020 2:53:13 PM
Sol will look forlorn, realising he hasn't the spells or the skills to help here. He looks down at the ground somewhat dejected.

"You are right of course Miss Akuno... I have no abilities here that will be of any use..." This seems to hit him harder than you would expect.

He looks to the group, realising that they are rapidly losing.

"Perhaps we should surrender? I do not see any other option, we cannot fight and I am certain that at least I cannot escape, my running never has been up to scratch."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday December 11th, 2020 3:39:27 PM
Realizing that he can't cast the spell and move, Thorondir holds off on casting Summon Nature's Ally and instead flies to K8 and lands. Instead, he casts protection from energy, electricity. If he is attacked from beneath he will call down bolt of lightning directly down on himself and hopefully anything under him.

[OOC: I was under the impression that in bird form Thorondir could cast a spell while remaining in the air. If this is not the case I need to rework pretty much everything I have been doing.]

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Active:Blink 5/5 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d100=46 ; d100=87 ; d6=2 ; d20+8=26 ; d100=77 ; d20+7=13 ;
Friday December 11th, 2020 3:53:17 PM
Haemir sees three things at once. Firstly, Fand suddenly take off: "I'll go get help." she blurts and flies off. Knowing it to be at least a few hours by foot, chances are all the fighting will be done by the time she arrives, but unfortunately Haemir has just began casting and was unable to share his opinion.

Which brings us to the second thing. Raising his hand to perform the arcane gestures he notes the strangely burned area (where he cut his hand) is still injured - despite 'Lil's channel?!

Lastly, he knows where Connor is and successfully casts a spell. The floating incorporeal mist sinks into the ground there (touch attack: 26 includes +2 bonus from hand & +1 from Bloodwitch Lore) delivering Bestow Curse.

Personally Haemir thinks travelling in the grass at night (in an area the party decided was unsafe) with Connor attacking from underground was tantamount to suicide and clearly the druid was beyond reason, leaving no choice but to do what he believes is the right thing, grit and determination flood his features:
"I was going to give my time n' energy to help this guy but he's jus' plain lost it! Coming into our camp n' attacking us! Don't care what the evil detector came up as, they can be fooled n' as far as I'm concerned he's clearly dangerous n' acting evil n' I swore two oaths to stop such things! Sentinels, friends... Do what you will but I'm making my stand here n' I'll no hold anythin against anyone th'leaves"!
---

(Using Focused Curse: as an immediate action, adds +1 to the Sv DC of the curse making the Will Sv DC:19) if Connor fails he acquires a –6 decrease to his Charisma score).

(Fand flies 80' - before sprint/double moves etc. She knows the rough direction we were travelling and the rest is down to her - Perception:13).

(Lastly, the blink doesn't save him if Haemir's attacked & runs out end of round).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Friday December 11th, 2020 3:58:55 PM
Realizing that he can't cast the spell and move, Thorondir holds off on casting Summon Nature's Ally and instead flies to K8 and lands. Instead, he casts protection from energy, electricity. If he is attacked from beneath he will call down bolt of lightning directly down on himself and hopefully anything under him.

[OOC: I was under the impression that in bird form Thorondir could cast a spell while remaining in the air. If this is not the case I need to rework pretty much everything I have been doing.]

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Active:Blink 5/5 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Friday December 11th, 2020 4:43:38 PM
(PS made Haemir's attack roll Vs invisible opponent: 77% so he doesn't miss)

(Note to Kelly. It's only cos you cast a full round spell as opposed to std action - so that doesn't normally allow movement)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Friday December 11th, 2020 9:47:20 PM

Akuno figures floating discs are mostly safe, since they are 3 feet off the ground. He's going to have to expose something.

She casts another, and motions to Sol. "Hop on, Wizard san!"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+6=26 ;
Friday December 11th, 2020 11:28:16 PM
Caelwyn turns to look at Cecil. "What exactly are you doing there? Will that help?"

He sends up a prayer to Domi for aid and remains on the ground, shield at the ready. He is prepared to heal anyone who is in need of it.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21 d20+11=31 ; d20+11=26 ; d8+7=14 ; d20+4=16 ; d4+1=2 ;
Saturday December 12th, 2020 10:08:38 AM
Grindar and Llew stay on their rocks. Grindar hopes that the rocks are smaller then Connor, in his current form, which forces him to reveal part of himself if he choses to attack. He answers Haemir, "I would rather die then dishonor myself by running again, I stand with you brother! He readies an attack again hoping that being elevated gives him a target, and Llew does likewise.

Grindar: (nat 20, 26 to confirm) for 28 if confirmed, or 14 if not

Llew: Hits AC 16 for 2 damage

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Saturday December 12th, 2020 1:11:17 PM
Caelwyn realizes what the others are doing and follows suit - he climbs up on the rock next to Llew and waits to see if Connor responds to his words, and if he is able to hit any of them through the rocks.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d20+11=24 ; d20+10=14 ; d20+10=29 ; d6+8=14 ;
Saturday December 12th, 2020 1:49:42 PM
'Lil is impressed by Akuno's use of her discs and encourages Akuno to help Sol. She heals some more, and tries to get everyone else off the ground.

Sol is dejected because he cannot see how he can deal with this threat. He suggests surrender.

Thorondir lands and casts a spell, preparing to make a target of himself in order to lure Connor in for an attack.

Fand goes for help. Haemir knows where Connor is and sends his spectral hand into the ground at that spot to deliver a curse before announcing his intention to stay and fight. The hand speeds into the ground, then returns to Haemir's side. No results of the spell can be seen.

Akuno figures floating discs are mostly safe. She casts another for Sol to use.

Caelwyn asks Cecil what he has done and if it will help. He climbs on the rock next to Llew.

Grindar and Llew stay on their rocks. Grindar answers Haemir, saying that he too would rather die than run.

Cecil gives Caelwyn a quizzical look and shrugs. Cecil stays when Liam moves past.

Liam speaks a bit, but it's hard to hear over the sound of marching. Perception DC 30 if you failed the will save when the sound of marching started, or DC 10 if you succeeded. Highlight to display spoiler: {"Earth elementals are dead slow. If you find a way to keep him here while you get beyond his tremorsense, you'll probably evade him." He shouts his last advice a bit louder --} "Run!" Liam heads off, apparently taking his own advice.

Connor attacks 'Lil twice this round, hitting once. 'Lil takes 14 points of damage. The druid/elemental is still below ground.

=====
Connor -- 22 hp damage
Liam -- unhurt
Cecil -- unhurt

Here is a map.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Active:Blink 5/5 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d6=5 ; d100=5 ;
Saturday December 12th, 2020 3:17:11 PM
Haemir tries to cast a cure but his armor interferes.
He watches Liam flee & doesn't blame him, but nope. Not running from this bully - he's determined more than ever...

(Pls note earlier from earlier.... Spellcraft:24 & Knowledge Arcana:21 included 'Guide' bonus).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+7=15 ; d20+9=19 ;
Saturday December 12th, 2020 6:43:05 PM
Thorondir takes a moment and his feathers seem to fade into his body and he grows taller. He is back to his elven self, and stomps his feet in good measure. Looking at Cecil, Thorondir says to him "Do not cast magic or be part of this fight, consider this a warning. Unless of course you help us."

Will save 15
Perception 19
active spells: Call Lightning (5 min), Protection from Energy, Electricity (50 min)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Saturday December 12th, 2020 6:44:09 PM
Thorondir looks to Haemir and adds "I never did hear an anagram, but it does appear you are under attack. Mind if I join?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Sunday December 13th, 2020 8:45:28 AM
With everything tense Haemir grins at Thorondir's calm question. Spoken like a true gentleman! The elf was growing on him and it wasn't in a carbuncle kind of way...
"Alas, we've given him as many chances to talk as we can, so that idea is 'Not Horrid' at all"! He says with a flourishing bow emphasising the anagram.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Sunday December 13th, 2020 4:04:53 PM
"Spread out n' get off th'ground, Connor will have to come up t'look for us - then we hit him"...
'If he's as slow as they say then we can provoke him in different areas - fight him on our terms, well it was the start of plan 'C'...' he thinks.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=10 ;
Sunday December 13th, 2020 9:16:01 PM
Caelwyn glances around. "Apparently Earth elementals are extremely slow...we will fight him, but perhaps we should spread out a bit? Make ourselves harder to hit? Everyone get off the ground, at least! Lil, that means you - we need to fight smart here, and save our energy. You and I don't even have anything to hit at the moment."

Perception 10

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21 d20+8=20 ; d20+12=20 ;
Monday December 14th, 2020 6:41:02 AM
will save: 20
Perception: 20

Grindar stays on his rock hoping for a chance to return an attack on Connor. He refuses to run, even though he has heard the advice, but foe him it's a matter of principle, and honor. There is no honor in retreat, unless doing so means the protection of others, and no one else is retreating and in need of protecting.

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d20+9=23 ; d20+9=17 ;
Monday December 14th, 2020 11:48:34 AM
*Forgot to roll will save vs. the sound last round: 23 is pass. Perception roll to hear Cecil is 17, also pass.

"I ain't fighting dumb, dude!" calls 'Lil back. Knowing the difference between bravery and stupidity was a big deal to her. Once the casters were safe, she'd handle Conner and getting herself safe.

Assuming Sol gets on Akuno's disk and Thorondir can either fly or fight the elemental on its own turf, she's able to worry about herself now, so that's good...

She hears Cecil mention how slow earth elementals are, but in this bloody grass so is she. She casts a spell to help keep her safe now that she doesn't need to be bait.

***

Move: Retrieve scroll
Standard: Cast sanctuary, Will save DC 15 or Conner cannot target her with any attacks for 5 rounds.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Monday December 14th, 2020 3:56:31 PM
"Not Horrid, indeed."
Thorondir stomps his feet on the ground and gives a wink to Haemir.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=9 ;
Monday December 14th, 2020 5:54:46 PM
Sol jumps on the disc, and appears to perk up a bit.

"You must teach me this spell... it would be useful to know it."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Monday December 14th, 2020 6:58:56 PM

Akuno smiles. "Laziness meets function, I guess!" She casts another floating disk, for whomever wants it.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d20+10=23 ; d6+8=10 ;
Monday December 14th, 2020 8:50:25 PM

Haemir tries to cast a cure but his armor interferes. He makes some suggestions on strategy and trades banter with Thorondir.

Thorondir returns to his natural form, and warns Cecil not to interfere.

Caelwyn makes other suggestions on strategy.

Grindar is intent on attacking Connor if he gets the opportunity.

'Lil remains intent on getting everyone else safe, but takes her own precautions by casting sanctuary. She and Thorondir are the only two still on the ground.

Sol jumps on the disc Akuno provided, and appears to perk up a bit.

Akuno casts a third floating disk, for whomever wants it.

Cecil moves over by Akuno and asks, indicating the discs, "Can they hold more than one person? Can other folks push or pull one?"

When Connor attacks this round, his target is Thorondir. He hits (AC: 23) for 10 points of damage.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 22/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 3d6=8 ;
Monday December 14th, 2020 9:27:11 PM
As soon as Connor comes up and attacks, Thorondir calls down a bolt of lightning that flashes down on him and into the ground beneath him. Thorondir's hair instantly sticks out and a crackle is heard, but he shows no harm from the lightning himself.
"Come again Connor"
Thorondir stomps his feet again.

Lightning 8 HP damage

Active spells:
Call Lightning
Prot from Energy, Elec.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 2d6=5 ;
Monday December 14th, 2020 11:13:57 PM
Caelwyn moves over to Thorondir, laying his hand on his shoulder. "Domi's blessing upon you, Thorondir. We will prevail."

Thorondir heals 5 HP

Caelwyn then takes a defensive stance.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d100=70 ; d6=5 ; d100=93 ; d20+8=10 ;
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 6:30:02 AM
Seeing where Connor came from Haemir sends the floating incorporeal mist in to the ground (touch attack:14) to deliver Touch of Idiocy.
---

(Haemir uses two 1st level slots & Coalesce Spells to cast the spell. The touch attack includes +2 bonus from hand, +1 from Bloodwitch Lore & using a hero point (after the fact) granting +4. The miss chance due to Connor being technically invis:97% doesn't impact on the attack. If it hits Connor he acquires a –5 decrease to his Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma scores).

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 10:10:35 AM
'Lil ain't sure if her magic worked or not. "Thorondir, you ain't gonna like this, but if you wants I can pick you up off the ground if you need some cover while summoning something what can attack that jerk down there."

She's thinking she can give him a full round to cast summon nature's ally by just lifting him outside Conner's range, trusting her Sanctuary spell to keep her safe.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 5:48:09 PM
Sol looks thoughtful.

"Akuno, could we stay here being targets for Connor while some of our allies try to make it to the Druids to see if they can be of assistance?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21 d20+9=28 ; d20+9=14 ; d8+5=12 ; d8+5=13 ;
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 9:17:52 PM
Grindar prepares another attack against Connor, should he provide a target.

Primary: 28 for 12 damage
Off-hand: 14 for 13 damage

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20=2
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 9:28:43 PM

Akuno trembles, quite noticeably, at the idea. "Please don't misunderstand me, Wizard san. I'm not brave at all, I'm just confident in my friends and allies. Any queen should trust her subjects, its only natural. But if we stay and they go, I think Connor won't need these tactics to win."

In regards to her discs, she passes on information. "They can hold around five hundred pounds, but they follow me. We could make a train of sorts, but we'd need someone to pull them."

Ponies, 3 rounds remaining.

She keeps an eye out for danger. If Connor exposes himself enough, she'll go after him with her ray of frost, but miss.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 10:18:34 PM
Shield at the ready, Caelwyn glances toward Sol. "Fand has gone for help, friend. Hopefully the she flies faster than the North Wind itself!"

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d20=17 ;
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 10:21:15 PM
Thorondir calls down the bolt of lightning he had prepared for as soon as Connor attacks. The bolt of lightning that flashes down into the grasses, through Thorondir, and into the ground where Connor is. "Come again Connor," he taunts.

Caelwyn moves over to Thorondir and heals him. At Sol's suggestion, he points out that Fand has already gone for help.

Haemir sends the spell-laden, floating, incorporeal mist into the ground where Connor was. The hand speeds into the ground, then returns to Haemir's side. No results of the spell can be seen.

'Lil isn't sure if her magic worked, but offers to lift Thorondir so he can cast a spell without risk of being attacked.

Sol suggests having some of the Sentinels stay as targets while others go for help.

Grindar prepares another attack against Connor, should he provide a target.

Akuno is scared by the idea of staying as a decoy. She explains what her discs can do, and keeps an eye out for damger.

Cecil points to Grindar, and says, "I've seen him move through the grass. He's the fastest one here."

(There is no obvious activity from Connor this round.)

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 10:34:55 PM
Caelwyn looks around. "I'm not sure what he is up to, but we perhaps the spell worked? He looks to Cecil and Liam. "Any suggestions here? Perhaps we should start moving toward the town."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 6:17:40 PM
Sol nods.

"I would agree with Caelwyn, we should definitely head towards the druids... they will be able to help us with Connor."

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:32/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 7:17:55 PM
Haemir waits with baited breath to see if Connor resurfaces ..
"I can't say fer sure that my spell worked so for now don't move near where he was, don't give him reason to act instinctively. Let's get outta here"!

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d6=1 ; d6=4 ; d6=2 ; d6=6 ;
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 7:48:19 PM
'Lil ain't sure what spell Haemir cast, but she's good with moving. She channels some positive energy for her and Thorondir*, healing 12 damage.

She moves to Sol's disk and starts pushing, trusting Akuno can use her invisible dudes.

*If anyone else was injured and Carl didn't know, 'Lil will get them too.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 7:52:40 PM
His legs aching from the attack from below, he feels the healing power from Caelwyn coursing through him.
"Thanks, I think I can stand here and deliver more lighting bolts down on Connor, but perhaps he has learned his lesson. That, or he is casting a counter spell so that he is not bothered by it."

Looking towards Lil, he adds "Thanks for the offer, I'm sure in the future you will have reason to pick me up, though Akuno is more my type." he adds with a smile.

"Okay, I agree. Let us go to Virgil while we can."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 11:58:31 PM
Caelwyn looks around to see if Liam and Cecil are accompanying them. "Come on, lets get going you two. If we want to sort this all out, we need to get back to Virgil first. Then we can try to make Connor see reason, perhaps."

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple d4=2 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+8=20 ;
Thursday December 17th, 2020 12:01:56 AM
Caelwyn suggests, and is quickly seconded by Sol, that this would be a good time to go for help. Haemir and Thorondir more reluctantly agree, Thorondir brushing at the fine coating of ash left by his lightning bolt. 'Lil takes time to heal the group again before starting to push Sol's disc.

With three discs, seven Sentinels, and one captive satyr, it takes a few moments to get sorted. Liam no longer seems to be around. Akuno provides some advice on the best way to use the discs. Still, once the group gets going, they make pretty regular time through the grasses. There is a quarter-moon, so it is not especially light nor extremely dark. But the grasses are not a safe place at night, and the possibility that Connor will show up again makes the trip tense.

After a couple of hours, with the village less than an hour to go (according to Grindar and Thorondir), the Sentinels hear movement ahead, quickly followed by a shouted, "Declare yourselves!" There seem to be at least a half-dozen people ahead, moving the direction the Sentinels have come from. As yet, none are in sight.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+1=20 ; d20+7=25 ;
Thursday December 17th, 2020 7:02:05 AM
Haemir is relieved when Connor doesn't show... Setting off for the temple he holds his wounded hand up and the black-vapour encircles it, soaks in and the wound closes. Examining it he raises an eyebrow and thinks: 'Hmm, not over yet, quite sure Connor won't have learnt any lessons at all'. The professor couldn't help but acknowledge the irony: different classroom - same aspiration.

After nearly an hour travelling in the dark he breaks the silence: "Connor will be back up now, that's the best head start I could give today, stay sharp"!

As the sentinels approach the temple and are challenged he calls back: "The Sentinels and we have some company with us. If you're responding to our plea for help, thank you. Did Fand fill you in"?

Remaining still (till the guards recognise them) he remains vigilant (Perception:20 - darkvision:120'). If Fand has accompanied them (or simply catches up) he thanks her and the Macaw resumes an overhead patrol (Perception:25) before eventually landing on his shoulder.

"Connor was nearly an hour behind us but will make up that very fast if he wildshapes" he advises. "Are things ok here"?

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday December 17th, 2020 4:09:14 PM
"Yea, mine too," 'Lil answers Thorondir with a smile.

She's real glad when they actually move and keep moving without getting ground punched. Turns out 'Lil don't much like getting ground punched.

Haemir answers, and 'Lil's heard the right words come outta his mouth enough times to feel comfortable when he does. She wonders about Liam, unsure when he could have gotten away. Stopping to search for him would have been the wrong call, so she figures it's best they kept moving.

Despite all the nonsense she'd been through with these three, she can't help but feel like this satyr ain't a bad guy. He did something real stupid and would have to face some reckoning, but not the villain here. She takes some comfort in knowin' he'll probably get a fair hearing.

She waits to hear from the voices what asked them to declare themselves, hoping it's not another band of folks looking to ruin her day.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Thursday December 17th, 2020 4:10:54 PM
Not sure who these people are, Grindar returns their shout, "As my friend said we are the Sentinels, but who are you?!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Thursday December 17th, 2020 6:02:06 PM
Thorondir thanks Lil for the healing before heading out. Akuno seems to have aroused everyone's interest. She is an interesting creature Thorondir thinks. Which can be deduced as Thorondir looks over to Akuno as Lil mentions her too.

Once they hear movement ahead, Thorondir stands and waits as Haemir and Grindar speak for the group. The only thing Thorondir does is whistle for Aewen, who he hopes is safe and nearby.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday December 17th, 2020 6:25:47 PM
Sol keeps quiet as they are challenged, but mentally prepares for another fight, though he strongly suspects these people are from the village.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday December 17th, 2020 11:09:23 PM
Caelwyn readies his weapons, waiting for a response from the approaching party. He also keeps an eye on Cecil - he really doesn't want to lose their last prisoner.

DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Heading back to the Stone Temple
Thursday December 17th, 2020 11:22:44 PM
Haemir answers the challenge, "The Sentinels and we have some company with us. If you're responding to our plea for help, thank you. Did Fand fill you in? . . . Are things ok here?" He explains that Connor might be along soon.

"We were told you might need help. I don't know any Fand."
"Fand is the familiar of one of their wizards." This voice is Liam's. "It was going to get help from Virgil."

'Lil reflects on the captives -- wondering when and how Liam escaped, and thinking this satyr ain't a bad guy.
Caelwyn readies his weapons, and keeps an eye on Cecil.

"Oh, Connor's already in the village talking to Virgil. Well, yelling at Virgil more like it. They don't get along anymore."
"Made some interesting claims about you lot, too."
"Can we trust Virgil to make fair decisions where these guys are concerned?"
"We can't exclude him."

Grindar also returns the shout, "As my friend said we are the Sentinels, but who are you?!"

"Did you leave a fire burning? That's the important question."

Sol keeps quiet as they are challenged, but mentally prepares for another fight. Akuno also stays silent.
Thorondir whistles for Aewen, hoping he is safe and nearby.

"Is that supposed to mean there is a fire?"
"Answer their question so they can relax, they'll be quicker to answer yours," Liam says. Then after a moment he answers himself, "Guys, I'm here with a group of druids. You're about a half hour from the village. You'll get there, but first please tell them you made sure there was no fire burning before you left the campsite."

Regardless of the answer given, after some discussion the Sentinels are told they may go on to the village.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Friday December 18th, 2020 4:13:38 AM

Akuno .. literally cannot remember the answer to that question. She decides to let someone else allocate the thought space to that question. Her little brain is trying to figure out how Conner beat them here.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Friday December 18th, 2020 6:18:51 AM
Grindar thinks for a moment about the campfire, then finally answers, "I don't believe we ever lit a fire, not much need for warmth in this place, and we weren't doing any cooking, so we should be good there."

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20=6 ;
Friday December 18th, 2020 7:34:17 AM
Haemir sighs and places his hands on his temples, 'Will this stubborn idiot never cease'? He thinks and tries to remain calm: "Excuse me but I don't understand! are ye saying that Connor, the man who came here and started a fire n' we had to chase down has now tittle-tattled that we started a fire somewhere in the plains"? He gives Liam an incredulous glare. "You literally just came from being in our camp, you know no fire was started, admitted to us all of your roles of coming here to burn things that don't belong to Connor. Now he is here making stuff up n' you're playing along!? You didn't speak up. Is that what her sayin"?

Haemir gives a "really, that's what you're leading with" look, his anger rising again, "Will this lunacy never cease? I'm tired of it" ... After a few deep breaths he says: "Right Let's get back n' sort this nonsense once n' fer all"!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Friday December 18th, 2020 12:32:12 PM
Thorondir has no patience with games, and it seems he is now part of a deadly game. Upon seeing Aewen, he calls her down to sit on his shoulder.

Cast: Speak with animals

In eagle "What have you seen and heard since I sent you back here yesterday?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday December 18th, 2020 3:15:03 PM
'Lil puts her hand on the satyr's shoulder. "Hun, why don't you go on ahead a bit. My dudes and I need to talk before we get back to town." Her voice ain't got malice because she ain't got no malice towards the satyr...at least not yet.

When he's out of ear shot, she talks. "This is seven kinds of stupid, and I swear if this devolves into more politics I'm gonna have a come apart." She moves her shoulders in big circles, limbering up. "I think we're well within our rights to say we're diplomats from Rattledam if they try and detain us. We need to make a decision should that happen. Won't do for some of us to play along and some of us resist." She twists her torso hard left for a moment, then right. "My vote is to make it clear we ain't gonna be detained, and thump anyone what tries to lay a hand on me." It's what her heart says, but her eyes look towards Caelwyn. She figures if anyone's gonna take issue with that plan, it's him.

"Regardless, I think we need to make it real clear to the powers that be that our patience for diplomatic intrigue has reached its limit."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Friday December 18th, 2020 4:58:07 PM

Akuno pumps out her chest, and gives it a thump with a small fist. Somehow, the excess of lace and ribbons on her clothing make it more cute than intimidating. "Right? About time we exercise the option to do whats right, following the compass of our hearts rather than what some old people consider custom."

She stands atop her disk and puts balled hands to rest on her hips. Swaying like a sailor on a ship, she finds her disk legs and yokes her servants. They had permission to enter town, and she would do so as imperiously as possible. She mutters under her breath. "Sometimes the rabble must be reminded which pieces are queens, and which are pawns. They'll not come within arms reach of me!"

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Friday December 18th, 2020 9:43:31 PM
Haemir likes 'Lil's plan and grins but then his brow furrows and he leans in conspiratorially: "If Connor felt threatened it makes tactical sense to wildshape come here n' get the accusations in. He tells a few lies, we turn up and are met with a small force of" he nods towards the town-folk, "Believing us to be criminals they try to take our weapons... All Connor had to do was nudge them n' we react making his point. Looks bad for us". Shrugging he chews his lip. "Also if we fight n' end up having to leave we don't hear what lies Connor's manufactured, which he'll add to of course".

"I love the idea n' if it comes to it I'm in, but we need to consider this is their village, Virgil knows we didn't start the fire here n' we need to be seen to trust their justice". He pauses allowing everyone to mull things over.
"Note I said, 'be seen'. There's nothing stopping us putting backup weapons, spell books, components, whatever into 'Lil's magic bag, or something else? Stashing them with one of the birds n' then if our weapons are taken n' things get out of hand" he gestures with a hand - maybe indicating something flying out of his head? "we request a special delivery"?! He ends with a cheeky grin.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday December 18th, 2020 11:35:48 PM
Caelwyn smiles at his friends. "Alright, everyone, let's take a moment to settle ourselves before we head back. It seems, somehow, that Connor has arrived first and is telling his version of the story. We know exactly what happened, so what we need now is to be level headed about this. We were pursuing the ones who attempted to burn Genyielt's wood, and that is exactly what they have already admitted to. The fight in the camp was accidental, and Connor himself was the aggressor out on the plain. As long as we keep our heads, I think we should all come out fine."

He looks at Lil. "No, we will not let ourselves be unjustly detained, but we must also remember we are here as official ambassadors of Rattledam, and must conduct ourselves accordingly. May I offer to speak first, in this case?"

DM Steve -- the Stone Temple village
Saturday December 19th, 2020 11:01:14 AM
The Sentinels are confused by the question they are asked, and the druids conclude they must go see for themselves, leaving the angry Sentinels to continue to the village. A grand entrance is planned, but it is already late and dark, and only two watchmen, Cecil, and Sprocket are there to see the Sentinels arrive. Sprocket says, "Virgil said you should get some rest before worrying about anything." One of the watchmen adds, "And this satyr will be coming with me."

Virgil and Attius show up the next morning, looking tired and a little annoyed. Virgil tells the group, "I've known Connor a while, used to be one of his teachers. So I know I haven't heard the entire story, but I don't doubt that the parts he chose to tell me are true. You can try to respond to him in front of the druids, or you can ignore him. Attius has already said the monks have no interest in what went on out in the grass."

Virgil runs down the accusations Connor made against the Sentinels. He made the group sound like a bunch of highwaymen. They attacked Connor's camp at night, using summoned creatures to attack while Caelwyn pretended he wanted to talk, then stole their gear and kidnapped them. But since they weren't able to hold Connor he escaped and returned later to free his friends. One again, the Sentinels attacked, despite precaustions Connor had taken that should have favored negotiation. This time Connor fought back. But when the group risked a brush fire by using lightning in the battle, and close enough to threaten the village, he knew he would be unable to reason with them.

Virgil adds that Liam agreed with the basic events that Connor laid out, but said Connor was making the Sentinels out to be bandits when they aren't. "He was most impressed that you healed him when you did not have to. He thinks you're basically good folks, just misguided."

And then Cecil -- well, Cecil's a satyr. He backed Liam up on good but misguided line, but added that Caelwyn and Thorondir spend so much time posturing and come across so arrogant from trying to one-up each other for Akuno's attention that he doesn't think the group will ever get their heads on straight without changes. He even suggested the druids appoint him in Thorondir's place to help the group get onto the right path.

"So, if you want the druids to hear your response to this, I can arrange it. But recognize that the local authorities do not plan to do anything," Virgil concludes.

Attius seems a bit annoyed with Virgil's last statement. "No one here was actually hurt when Connor tried to burn the wood, and a number of druids are sympathetic to what they see as an attempt to restore tradition. Besides, they found a lightning strike. Our focus has to be on getting the boat built. Which reminds me -- no one expects you testify at a trial or anything, but if witnesses saw you returning valuable belongings to our unwelcome guests it would put to bed any notion of banditry."

It seems to be Virgil's turn to be annoyed with Attius' statement. "I can deal with an irate elementalist," he tells Attius. ". . . Grindar, I think you were interested in the Harvester's Bazaar. If you leave within the next couple of days, you can be there for it."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=15 ;
Saturday December 19th, 2020 9:05:00 PM
Caelwyn listens to Virgil and Attius, his face betraying nothing. He is silent for a moment, then speaks.

"Virgil, I hope you know us well enough by now to know that we are neither robbers nor liars. In both cases, I can prove on behalf of my companions that our actions were undertaken in good faith. I won't pretend at all that there were not mistakes - on at least one occasion, a rash action on our part did cause problems. But Connor's story also has several falsehoods - at least, from our point of view. His own stubbornness and pugnacity made the situation far worse, although I think a problem of communication is the main theme of the story here."

He pauses for a moment, then continues. "I can tell you everything now, if you like, but I would prefer to make my case in front of all the druids. I want everyone to hear our side of the story, and to see that our honor should not be called into question. Can you assemble the druids to hear what I have to say? And at that point we would also certainly return anything belonging to Connor, IF the local authorities deem it just and right. They may think otherwise after hearing our side of the story."

Diplomacy 15

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+10=17 ; d20+7=9 ;
Sunday December 20th, 2020 6:39:15 AM
Haemir relaxes that evening, marking a student's paper before sleeping heavily. The next morning he finds a quiet spot and meditates (Concentration:17) successfully tearing a temporary whole in reality to relearn his spells.

At the meeting he listens to what is said: "If the monks n' druids don't care about this n' Connor isn't being detained them why was Cecil taken away? Besides if anyone was mislead here it was him"! He asks Virgil before adding "I would also like to say something after Caelwyn".

When the meeting with Virgil is over he says: "The bazaar sounds fun, we still have a bunch of gems from that plant-like-thing to evaluate" he holds a small handful out (appraise:9). "Hmm, not sure any ideas"?

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Monday December 21st, 2020 6:52:01 AM
Grindar is fuming mad at Connor's accusations.

"How dare that dishonorable whitehand accuse us of wrong doing, when he is the one who started this whole thing!? Even after we gave him ample opportunities to submit, and or at least come along at his leisure, he chose to escape and then when he returned instead of heeding warnings, he decided to try to encase one of our numbers in stone. Last time I looked, that is an attack, and if Haemir didn't have the magical means to escape, he may have suffocated. We had every intent to return his gear to him upon arrival here at Stone Temple, as we plan on returning Liam and Cecil's gear, but to my eyes, Connor forfeited his right to his gear, when he broke faith with us. If my fellow Sentinels feel otherwise, I will go with their judgment, as their words are valuable to me, but I have nothing to say to that shadeless one, and nothing he says will justify his actions, either with the druid wood, or his dealings with us. If the other druids chose to hear the words of a drug using whitehand, over the word of people who were willing to die to help them fight off the mutant attack, they have exceptionally poor judgment, and should be ashamed at their lack of honor!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Monday December 21st, 2020 11:18:57 AM
Feeling the call of the solstice, Thorondir wildshapes into an eagle and he and Aewen fly off in search of a tall fir tree to perch atop. He knows it is far away but it calls to him.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday December 21st, 2020 10:21:31 PM
Caelwyn waits silently, his eyes fixed on Virgil, waiting to hear his response to his own statement.

DM Steve -- the Stone Temple village
Monday December 21st, 2020 11:02:01 PM
Virgil nods at the request to speak with the druids here at the Stone Temple Village. "I will see that you have the opportunity to talk with them. The ranking druid helping here at the moment is Trosdan, He was in the negotiations about building the boat in the first place,and he follows Eberyon. He has no conviction that the boat should be built, but he will honor the agreement to help build it in return for restoration of forest."

"You may have gotten the impression that Connor, Liam, and Cecil talked with them together, but that is not the case. Each was alone, but the questions Liam and then Cecil were asked were based on the things the druids had previously heard. You, too, will be asked to say what you have to say one at a time, although those who speak later will probably get a good idea of what has already been said."

Virgil says he will arrange for you to speak as soon as possible, which turns out to be shortly after midday. Whether a given Sentinel attends or not is up to them.

Trosdan is there with three other men. They briefly tell you what Connor had to say, in no more detail than Virgil did before, then ask what you have to say in return.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Tuesday December 22nd, 2020 8:42:40 AM
Haemir thanks Virgil and says: "I'll go last. Caelwyn, Grindar... 'Lil"? He steps back holding an arm out gesturing for the trio to speak before him.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=12 ;
Wednesday December 23rd, 2020 12:10:16 AM
Caelwyn inclines his head to the druids, speaking slowly and deliberately.

"Thank you for hearing what we have to say. We, as you know, are the Sargrass Sentinels, the protectors of New Rattledam. I will not tell you our full tale, for it would take a long while. But in giving an account of what happened over the past few days, I hope to show you that while we have made some mistakes, we are not the ones most at fault here."

Caelwyn tells of how they were alerted to the fire, which had threatened the precious timber of Genyielt's body, and set off to find the culprits. "By the time we encountered them, we were exhausted and on edge. When we approached their location, I attempted to initiate contact with them peacefully. We wanted to avoid a fight if possible. However, one of our group members thought we were under attack and struck out, which resulted in a brief struggle. During that struggle, I and several others were attempting to END hostilities, calling for everyone to put down their weapons."

"After the struggle concluded, Liam, Cecil and Connor were all taken into custody. We healed them and told them we would bring them back to the town for judgement - they admitted that they had started the fire, and not only endangered Genyielt's precious wood but risked starting a larger fire that would threaten the local area. Cecil and Liam gave no trouble, and were indeed helpful. We promised to return their gear should the authorities deem it proper. But Connor took the first opportunity to escape, ignoring our request."

"We continued, hoping to arrive here safely. But Connor met us once again, and before we could even say anything to him he began to cast a spell, without so much as a comment. We immediately acted to defend ourselves, which is how the second fight began. That fight was one that Connor initiated, without question. I even attempted to initiate diplomacy before taking up arms. "

"One of our team did, acting in desperation, cast a lightening bolt to strike at Connor, who had transformed into an earthen figure and was attacking us from below ground. This was a mistake, and one we must be careful not to repeat. But several of us were hurt by his aggressive and unnecessary attack, and someone could easily have been killed. All he needed to do was accompany us back here, so the situation could be dealt with, but he decided to assault us instead."

"We may have made some mistakes, but we are not the group that should be on trial here. There may have been some communication errors at times, as well, on both sides. But Connor and his companions attempted to burn Genyielt's wood. Connor then made persistent and deliberate attacks on us as we tried to return here. He could tell we were returning to this place, but he chose to attack us anyway. All we have tried to do is our duty - to protect Genyielt's wood, and to see that evildoers are brought to justice."

Caelwyn hopes his speech will demonstrate the the Sentinels only acted in good faith, despite any mistakes, and that Connor and his friends are the ones who are at greatest fault.

Diplomacy: Natural 1 (or 12, if I can add my +11 bonus - hopefully that speech can boost my roll a bit. Nat 1, figures...ugh)

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+13=28 ; d20+15=28 ;
Wednesday December 23rd, 2020 7:51:02 AM
Diplomacy, the art of telling someone to sling their hook and then making them look to the journey! Well, no doubt this will be a true test. Am I up to it'? He had his doubts. Having learned many things since his arrival the one thing he underlined was: druids were a wild, stubborn lot. Worthy of respect and he doubted he'd change anyone's mind but he had to try! Some battles were fought with spells and blades and others with words. 'Well words are magic in their own right. Just as capable of cutting or healing, after all why do they call it spelling'? He reminded himself.

A deep breath, a cleansing of anything negative, his anger buried. He was 115 and would do his best to conduct himself accordingly. After Cae and everyone else spoke of course.

He sees the Paladin return and notes a slight angst on his features:
"Tough crowd"? He asks with a smile.

(Please note: family stuff impacted on my time & had to cut my post short - will carry the two rolls (for better or worse) over to my next one).

DM Steve -- Talking to the druids #1
Thursday December 24th, 2020 12:05:39 AM
"Thank you, Caelwyn. We have heard you."

DM Steve -- Harvester's Bazaar #1
Thursday December 24th, 2020 12:13:32 AM
When the Sentinels visited the Harvesters, one of the things they noticed was a distinct set of weapons that looked like macuahuitl. These are made from specially treated grasses and sharpened stones. There are different varieties. Each is like a club, a greatclub, a longsword, a greatsword, or a variety of axes. (Note that each weapon is a specific variation.) Cost is similar to the cost of the weapon being reskinned. This is how the Harvesters get along without metal weapons.

Some types of grasses can be shaped while pliant and then dried and treated to be equivalent to wooden items. The weapons described above are made this way, but other possibilities are available. Quarterstaffs made from braided and treated grasses are popular. Chests, hafts, shields, etc., can be made this way. The technique offers different opportunities for artistic expression in the items created than wood or metal offer. This is not steelgrass, which only the Manfri know the secret of. It is as close as the Harvesters have been able to come.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Saturday December 26th, 2020 6:39:56 AM
Concluding his armor was becoming a hazard Haemir stashes it with his weapons, the leather had already caused mis-casts and as naked as he felt without it he acknowledged it was time to move on. Attending the meeting unarmed, wearing his cloak, simple clothes and displaying his 'Woldian League of Adventurers' badge openly, he bows respectfully to the assembled druids, introduces himself and extends his own invitation.

"Esteemed council, if it is within your power n' you wish, please take this moment to cast any spells at your disposal to ascertain if I am lying or to read my intent, I will not resist n' will answer any questions you have to determine they're functioning".
(Haemir will observe any obvious spell-casting and will not resist - unless he notes someone abusing the offer: Spellcraft:28). When the druids indicate they are ready, or after a few seconds of silence he takes that as his cue and begins.

"I am sure that Caelwyn the Paladin has addressed your concerns regarding our actions, however if any seeds of doubt remain please ask. Also, I assume you'll question Liam n' Cecil again with any new information? So, on that note I'll address some of the past but look more to th'future...

Connor didn't leave the fight to prevent a fire, he was defeated n' left to recover underground, at which point he flew here n' made stuff up! Did he mention that I placed a letter in his pocket inviting him to talk with Virgil? Since when do highwaymen write letters begging for peace?

Also, two members of the Sentinels are servants of Domi, a newcomer to the Southern Continent. They're copper-bottomed, I'm honoured to stand by them, ye see regardless of where they are, their soul aim is to live honorably n' honestly, to defend the weak, n' to protect the innocent from harm. They couldn't treat Connor the way he claimed even if pushed to their limit! In fact, I'd go so far as t'say, they'd rather chop off one of their hands than display cowardice or dishonesty"! He pauses unable to think of any better way to show his trust for them, shrugging he moves on.

"In most societies it falls to relatives, guardians, priests or shaman's to oversee the burial duties, n' personally, I believe that no-one, druid or otherwise should be allowed to enter other peoples homes n' burn things sacred to others. Obviously Connor has no respect for this! In fact I see irony n' hypocrisy in his incongruence, that he accused us of starting fires n' yet it was his very first act in this story to do just that, deliberately n' intentionally. It was fortunate that Virgil was able to quell it. Speaking of Virgil, the fact remains that it wasn't actually the council wronged - nor Rattledam! The victims of this crime were Virgil n' Genyielt"! There it was again, anger and overwhelming pain regarding Connors disrespect for the dead. Haemir's father had always claimed he had the making of an 'Eye of Gargul', but he'd been too busy sailing Wold. He was still amazed and honoured that Gargul and Eberyon had agreed to place the Ent-soul somewhere special. "Genyielt now bends to the moonlight breeze within Queen Ma'ab's Vales of Twilight knowing peace. I would beg you to reconsider n' propose an alternate. Something in between punishment n' inaction that will hopefully prevent future misunderstanding n' bring these two druids hopefully some peace as well", the professor pauses to allow thoughts/replies.

"The Manfri hold a tradition that the wronged party is recompensed in a manner fitting to the crime. I beg Virgil be afforded that respect, that the council places a requirement for the old mentor n' his ex-student with fifteen or so years of bad-blood n' differences an opportunity to talk n' resolve them, or I honestly believe situations like this will only repeat themselves with a different catalyst next time.

I believe that through my words you will see our innocence of these accusations - I know this because there is no truth in them - other than the lightning strike bit, but to be fair this as was done as Connor was smacking Thorondir around, so they both traded blows n' no fires were started. But that's druid business so I stand aside there"...

Passing the protection for electricity vial to one of the druids, he says: "I took this from Connor just in case he used lightning against us. There is a chance here for Connor who was described to me as being a bull-headed as a Minotaur with a toothache for some closure n' peace. Perhaps also for Connor too? Really, this is not about us, Connor has used guile n' denial to avoid facing his own inner-demons, on that note thrice I beg PLEASE do not turn your back on this opportunity"!

After any questions Haemir bows again and turns to leave but glimpses back with his last thought.
"All it takes is for someone to adjust the ship's wheel one degree n' days later you're in an entirely different country". He hoped the council understood his meaning - the choice was there's now, they would either adjust the wheel and steer the two druids to better land of not. Out of sight he quietly prays to Ma'ab, Gargul and whatever manner of being it was that watched over him granting his witch-like powers. Now certain it probably wasn't one of the Sar afterall. 'Please grant these druids the peace they deserve', he didn't know if the Sentinels could face fighting Connor again, if they did he imagined they would probably do everything within their power to recycle Connor's spirit and he didn't want that!
---

([i]Diplomacy:28 - please see previous post for rolls).

DM Steve -- Talking to the druids #2
Saturday December 26th, 2020 3:11:11 PM

"I think perhaps you misunderstand what we are here. We are simply the druids who have been assigned to help build the boats that Virgil donated Genyielt's body to have built. Our presence here means that our grove has accepted that the boats will be built, and that we personally have no qualms about building them. A number of the grove do have qualms -- mostly, as you have referred to, dealing with the lack of proper funerary rites for Genyielt. A funeral pyre is traditional, for the entire tree and not only the branches."

"Nor do I have any doubt that the most complete and unadorned account we heard was given to us by your paladin friend." Trosdan continues to explain that the druids you have been talking to cannot and would not stop Connor from telling his story to others. However, since the Sentinels have told their story as well, these druids can and will relate it back to their superiors, who have already been told by Virgil that Connor tried to burn Genyielt and that the Sentinels still have his full confidence. That Liam's and Cecil's belongings are being returned, and that Haemir has offered one of Connor's items to the grove will do something to diminish the impact of Connor's claims of robbery.

The conversation seems to be going well. Trosdan makes a last observation. "You Sentinels are not of the grove. In some ways, you seem to want to be. In other ways your actions are quite foreign. You are outsiders in this land. Explain to me how you see things and I will listen. Explain to me how I should see things and I will not."

DM Steve -- Harvester's Bazaar #2
Saturday December 26th, 2020 3:22:18 PM
Alchemical items made from local ingredients are available.

In addition to those items that the Sentinels are used to from their pre-Sargrass days, they learn about the following items:

* Fastgrow drops -- Created from a grass called fastgrow, if one of these pills is consumed, the character consuming it will heal from rest twice as fast over the next 24 hours as they normally would have. This extends to regaining ability points from rest as well as hit points. If a character takes a second pill within the same day, there may be bad side effects. Costs 1 gp per pill.
* Glowtruffle Paste -- This unguent will cure most diseases and poisons caused by mutated grass. Alternately, if eaten within one day of being afflicted by mutated grass, it will provide a +4 save to attempts resist further effects from the grass affliction. Costs 10 gp.
* Badjujustool Spore Bag -- When thrown, the bag bursts open and releases spores gathered from certain mushrooms. The spore dust causes forgetfulness. An opponent hit by a bag with a successful ranged touch attack, may be subject to the spore effect. Costs 30 gp.
* Angel Blood -- If this paste is applied to slashing or piercing weapons or ammunition and allowed to dry, the weapon will cause 1 hp bleeding damage per round for 1d4 rounds in addition to their normal damage on the next successful hit. Costs 5 gp per application.
* Dhashalainn -- This condiment is added to food to decrease the amount of water a person needs to drink. May not be important to characters with the ability to create water, but very important to the people living there. Costs 1 gp for enough to cut the amount of water needed in half for a month. Using more will make a person sick.

If the Sentinels think about it, they have had dhashalainn before. The taste reminds them of the food they received when visiting the Manfri.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Sunday December 27th, 2020 6:37:14 AM
"I wouldn't dream of telling anyone how to think, all I did was tell you how I think n' offer a possible solution! Which I hope will be passed on".

Haemir didn't understand why the grove had been mentioned, was it some kind of tentative offer of education or a way of seeing if there was interest in joining? All he had seen (which included even the immortal powers) was constant pushes to join a side. Personally he was torn, being a keen botanist and gardener he appreciated the wisdom druids held, but the bunch stood in front of him seemed more divided than anything else he'd seen here! Haemir had set off to the Sargrass in awe of druids but his experiences were changing that opinion very quickly. He actually surprised himself that he didn't feel like asking why they'd bought it up! These druids were exhausting and made him feel sick.

"I think perhaps you misunderstand why we are here. We are simply guardians who by an act of honour found ourselves risking life n' limb to prevent one of yours from a gross violation, n' how would you say that effort has been repaid by the druids? With thanks, gratitude? It seems to me that there was at least one of two of you could have predicted this happening n' yet no one came forward nor gave a warning. You knew there were mumblings n' claim to be here to lend support, yet when that support was needed you chose not to"!? He holds his arms out absolutely flabbergasted.

"Regarding the claim we are strangers, yes we are yet I was 're-born' here from Ma'ab's cocoon. Of course we have lots to learn, but regardless of where anyone lives show me a person that doesn't, we're all work-in-progress. That doesn't give anyone rights either way. What becomes dangerous is when people be they druids or otherwise feel they know everything, or they know best. Queen Ma'ab claimed the druids would need guidance" ... He lets the sentence drop he was beginning to feel like the Sargrass druids were some kind of old boys club that did their own thing and he shrugs in resignation. It was clear now nothing he said would be acted upon unless they chose to take a negative interpretation of his words, in which case the less he said, the less ammo they had. The best he could hope for was that the other sentinels' reputation remained intact. Best give up hope of finding peace between Connor and Virgil, but there was one last thing.

"Connor didn't tell Liam n' Cecil that it was a funeral right he was passionate about, he told them he'd taken mushrooms n' that they told him to burn the oak because it would help strengthen it like it was loblolly pine! So, either his brain is so muddled he can't tell trees apart or he's lying! I'm beyond caring anymore. I feel like it is the druids problem to keep Connor in check from here on in. Or as you say - you won't prevent him from 'speaking, even when we all know he speaks with violence".

There was something about the way the druids spoke that grated him. They had presented themselves as a panel, he'd poured his soul out and then they claimed to be monkeys working for an organ grinder. It seemed all that was important to them was pointing out everyone's failures whilst ignoring their own, just like Connor had been. He really didn't want to see another druid in years! Except Thorondir and of course maybe Bigby again one day, Virgil hadn't even spoken of acknowledged him so the jury was out on that one. He seemed a decent guy though. He waisted enough time on them .. Off to the bazaar.

Haemir (Rich) AC:15/13/12 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+14=19 ;
Sunday December 27th, 2020 7:38:06 AM
Haemir gathers the new Rattledam member of his coven and with Fand they perform the ritual of the Grimalkin.
(Handle Animal:19 + a hero point after the fact = 23 - includes bonus for their asst). Ritual successful he morphs in to a Russian Blue with bright blue eyes and and pads off to find somewhere nice and warm to watch life, ponder and doze, after all he tellshimself': 'Who's ever heard of cats doing anything useful? Except for staring at you in a supercilious manner, although now that I think about it, I suppose that does have a kind of moral usefulness, making you feel uncomfortable and encouraging sober reflection upon your imperfections'. He didn't count Akuno as a cat - more like a 'super-cat' - who'd done quite a few useful things already.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Monday December 28th, 2020 7:01:31 AM
At the Council

Grindar listens to the councils words, and the words of his friends, and particularly the words of Haemir. When the druids ask about their view on things, he listens to the witches answer, and then adds, "As my friend has said we are guardians. I would like to elaborate on that a bit if I may. I original hale from the northern continent and came here in search of adventure. My greatest desire has been, and continues to be, to be known as a hero of justice, as such I strive to serve Pantheon faithfully. I have heard that at one time the god of justice and fairness was chief among those revered here, though there seems to be fewer followers of Pantheon than in the past, which I don't fully understand, but accept as the natural way things have played out here in the Sargrass Plains. My desire, and I know it to be the desire of my teammates as well, is to be the kind of people others look to as heroes. We don't seek such a recognition just for recognition's sake, but rather to earn the distinction through acts of heroism. As heroes to the masses, which is how we wish to be seen, we strive to remain outside of the different groups here in the Plains. Though if one of more of the peoples here wishes to adopt us in spite of that, I'm sure we would see the honor in that and accept graciously, assuming the group understands, that we must remain impartial. I believe part of the reason we seem so foreign to you is due to that very fact. Since we have arrived, it seems as though we have constantly been asked to take a side, or join a group, but we are already a group, the Sargrass Sentinels, a name we chose to tell the Wold exactly who we are, and where we stand. We are Sentinels, or guardians of you prefer. We guard the innocent and the weak. We guard against injustice and wrong doing. We guard against evil in all it's forms, both intentional and unintentional.

Though unintentional, Connor's act of fire, was an act of evil. Even though he may have meant good by it, to do such an act, without permission, is an evil act. I hold no malice towards the druid, but his lies dishonor both himself and us, and prove him a whitehand. We have fought along side the grove, when the mutants attacked, and was there when the mighty Genyielt fell. We shed many a tear at the loss of such a majestic being, and have vowed to fight. to the death if need be, to protect the secret of the grove and the location of the others of Genyielt's kind, and have warned both the monks here in Stone Temple and the settlers at Rattledam, that they would have to face us if they ever thought to attack the sacred groves. We would never take something that didn't belong to us, but since Connor showed himself faithless to us, and attacked us, his possessions, became forfeit, as we promised to return them upon arrival here, assuming he acted in good faith, just as we have done for both Liam and Cecil, both of whom acted in good faith. Haemir chose to return the potion as an act of good faith, though, as I have said, he had every right to keep. I will, in turn, return this armor of his, if you deem it wise, but in truth, I see no honor in honoring one who has no honor, and will do so only if this council asks me to, and even then, doing so will be a distasteful act to me, one that has no shade to it what so ever, yet one I will do to show good faith, to this council, not to Connor. I couldn't care less what Connor thinks of me, as think of him as less then a pile of Rapke dung!"

After saying his piece, Grindar waits to see if the council thinks he should return the breastplate.

At the Bazaar
At the bazaar, Grindar tests the heft and feel of some of the weapons, more out of curiosity than anything. He is surprised to find they are quite well balanced, as well as well built, but his desire to see his father's ax reforged encompasses his thoughts, and pushes out any desire to replace his weapons. If the council of druids feels he should return the breastplate, he will continue to peruse the goods in hopes of finding some armor that may be superior to his hide armor, and yet allow him to maintain his few druid abilities.

DM Steve -- Harvester's Bazaar #3
Monday December 28th, 2020 12:40:38 PM
Some armors are available. There are leather and hide armors made from local animals, which include one non-traditional item:

* Rapkeskin Cuirass and Leggings -- Leather armor that blends into the grasses, giving the wearer a +1 stealth bonus (+2 if masterwork) only while in grasses taller than the wearer. Costs 25 gp.

Other armors are pieced together from what's available. While most of these are inferior to the leathers and hides, the Harvesters have learned how to use giant beetle carapaces for armor. The carapaces are cut into small plates that are sewn onto a sturdy fabric made from the grasses. This armor is not as good as the metal armor of the more civilized lands, but it can be more effective than leather and hide armors. Further, these armors are made from all natural materials, so prohibitions against wearing metal armor do not apply to them. The following are available:

* Beetle Scale Mail -- This is equivalent to scale mail in all respects except that it weighs 20 lb and provides an armor bonus of +4.
* Lamellar Beetle Cuirass -- This is equivalent to a breastplate in all respects except that it weighs 20 lb and provides an armor bonus of +5.
* Beetle Banded Mail -- This is equivalent to banded mail in all respects except that it weighs 25 lb and provides an armor bonus of +6.

While a steelgrass shield or two is carried by individuals at the bazaar, such items are not for sale.

DM Steve -- Talking to the druids #3
Monday December 28th, 2020 1:30:52 PM
The Sentinels do not remember Trosdan as being a particularly patient person from the negotiations of the building of the boats, and the more they talk to him, the more easily he seems to become distracted. The other druids listen, but defer to Trosdan.

Haemir clearly is frustrated by the situation.

Grindar clarifies his perspective on what the others have said.

What he says seems to give Trosdan some pause, but still does not get much of a response. "Any items of Connors that you provide to me will be sent to the grove, where the council will decide what to do with it. As long as Murnian leads the council, you may be assured Virgil will hear of those decisions -- and not strongly disagree with them. As for advising you, all I will say is that if you do not keep what was once his, Connor's incentive to try to damage your reputation and his ability to succeed among the druids are both diminished."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Tuesday December 29th, 2020 6:19:52 AM
After dozing for an hour Haemir jumps down from the hut roof and morphs back in to his usual (s)elf and starts to look around the bazaar, even going so far as to buy a heavy macuahuitl-style mace.

Taking the crystals that the Sentinels found (when the weird plant thing died) he takes them to be evaluated, hoping that there will be enough funds to help the party out and after catches up with them:
"I hate to say it but I think we should give Connor his equipment back. Hopefully we will be able to buy replacements, but it does appear all eyes are on us. What's everyone's thoughts"?

DM Steve -- Prep for further adventures #1 100d4=248 ; d8=7 ;
Tuesday December 29th, 2020 12:23:54 PM
Haemir has the crystals from the "grass ooze" the Sentinels fought on the way to the Manfri appraised. They are small, 1/8 to 1/4 inch in diameter. Grindar had thought they must be worth a small amount each. At that size there are hundreds of them.

The appraiser says they are worth 1,736 gp all together. He can cash out 500 gp worth right away if the party prefers to carry gold.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 19/12/17, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 6:28:34 AM
At the Council
Grindar, begrudgingly, removes the ironwood breastplate and lays it at the feet of the council. "If anyone would take the word of a mushroom using whitehand over those of us who have bleed for others, they have very little shade to them. However to show that my shade is the stronger, and to avoid casting any doubt that the Sentinels are indeed moonshade, I leave this to you to return to the grove to allow the others to see for themselves Connor's shadeless ways!" After saying his piece, Grindar turns and walks away from the assembly of druids. He's had his fill of politics and diplomacy. If he had know he was going to have to be a diplomat and a politician, he would have stayed in the northern continent. He would rather face an army of dragons then another diplomatic or political council. Outside, and out of sight of the council, Grindar looks for something indestructible to take out his built up aggression, and by the time he is done punching the boulder he chose as a punching bag, his hands are a bloody and broken mess, and the stone is covered in his blood. He seeks out Lil to heal his hands, after the fact, and when she asks what happened, he simply says, "I needed to release some frustration"

At the Bazaar
Grindar looks at the different armors and his eyes are drawn towards the Lamellar Beetle Cuirass. Something about the way the plates of giant beetle caprice are overlapped and sown together, coupled with the iridescent sheen of the caprice plates themselves, he finds appealing. He digs through the suits, looking for the one with the highest quality construction, and finally pulls out one that is obviously of higher quality (masterwork) then the rest. He turns to the sales person and pulls his mundane steel breastplate out of his backpack. "I know that steel arms and armor are a rarity here in the Sargrass, how much would you give me for this breastplate, and may I apply it towards the price of this armor?", he says as he holds up the masterwork Lamellar Beetle Cuirass.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 8:59:25 AM
Haemir adds the paper note/credit slip to the link party loot pile.
"We will have to use it here but that brings our loot up to 4,700 gold".

If the Sentinels don't mind Haemir piles up the pile of loot that belonged to Connor and his party.

a masterwork ironwood breastplate, (200 + 150 + ironwood?)
masterwork club, (300)
4 spears, (4 gp)
93 GP,
oil of protection from energy (electricity 60hp) (1,125)
a scroll of lesser restoration, (150)
Scroll of protection from energy, (375)
a scroll of wall of fire; (1,125)
the (+1) ironwood breastplate, (1,200 + ironwood)
masterwork heavy wooden shield, (157 gp)
masterwork club, (150)
3x masterwork short spears, (453 gp)
headband of inspired wisdom +2, (4,000)
a spell component pouch, (5 gp)
60 GP,
masterwork pipes, (100)
short bow and 20 arrows (31)

"That's roughly 9,678 gp's, excluding whatever permanent ironwood costs. Seems a crying shame t'give it all back, that's nearly ten grand n' one of the toughest fights I've ever had. But clearly the druids are pressuring us to give these villains their gear back. Despite an agreement being struck that we would return it if Connor accompanied us back, which he didnt" ... He sighs.

"We need to gear some of you up desperately. I mean Sol hardly has 80 gold's worth of equipment n' that's including spells in his book"!

DM Steve -- Harvester's Bazaar #4
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 12:28:41 PM
The conversation turns to magic items. . .

* Masterwork versions of Sargrass items can be enchanted just like any other masterwork items (e.g., in the Catacombs).
* Individuals with the appropriate skills to enchant items live in the Sargrass, but are not always easy to find.
* Realize that that party knows there is a Catacombs entry in Zaran City (although that is far from the Rattledam / Stone Temple areas).
* Word of mouth says there's a dwarf in Rattledam who is able to make +1 axes. The Harvesters haven't really dealt with him, because they prefer the weapons and tools they're familiar with.
* The monks in the Stone Temple Village can make/enchant minor items using crystal found in the Crystal Mountains.
* There is little chance of the characters getting reasonable value trying to sell expensive magic items in the Sargrass. A buyer can probably be found for items valued at 25 gp or less. Almost no one will be ready to spend 500 gp on an unexpected purchase. Best bet for getting reasonable value for a pricey item is to barter for services (such as spells cast).

DM Steve -- Prep for further adventures #2
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 4:17:22 PM
Grindar checks on the possibility of selling his old breastplate.

The Harvester offers him 200 gp equivalent in goods for it, or a similar reduction on the cost of a more expensive item. Grindar could obtain the amor he is eyeing for 150 gp and the breatplate, for instance.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 6:57:20 PM
Haemir buys: 4 Fastgrow drops, 4 Glowtruffle Pastes, 5 Badjujustool Spore Bags, 10 AngelBlood & a coup!e of Dhashalainn (totalling 246gp).

He wraps the vials in cloth and stores them within small herbal boxes within his bag. He also takes a moment to wipe some of the AngelBlood on to a couple of his hand-bow bolts and allows them to dry in the sun later that day (and dozes next to them in cat form).

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Thursday December 31st, 2020 6:04:10 AM
Grindar thanks the merchant, and accepts the offer. He reaches into his coin purse and pulls out 150 gold coins and hands them the the gentleman, along with his old steel breastplate. Rather pleased with his purchase, he removes his hide armor and dons his new iridescent beetle armor. He walks around the rest of the bazaar, as well as the rest of the Harvester encampment, getting the feel of his new armor. He is surprised to discover how light it is, and how similar to his old breastplate it feels.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday December 31st, 2020 11:58:08 PM
Caelwyn appreciates his friends' efforts, and their frustrations. "We should return the armor...we will have enough to get by, and while it sits badly with me as well, given what Connor has done, we must be beyond reproach in our actions."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Friday January 1st, 2021 7:24:45 PM
"I hear ye Caelwyn"! If no one disagrees with the plan, Haemir will help return the trio's gear to the not-council.

DM Steve -- Prep for further adventures #3
Saturday January 2nd, 2021 1:57:33 PM
It sounds as if the plan is to return Liam's and Cecil's items and to turn Connor's over to the druids.
...
As the boats are being built, the Sentinels are engaged in numerous tasks of the sort that they find to be tedious -- mostly convincing different groups of people to get along and stay focused on the overarching task. Many months go by in these tasks. Further, the druids and later the monks assign a sort of "liaison" with the Sentinels to make sure that they understand the perspective of the druids/monks. Rattledam keeps Sprocket at the Stone Temple much of the time. Sprocket, a few monks, and some druids also set about ensuring there is a path for the boats to use to cross the Crystal Mountains.

By the time the boats have been built, though, the characters have amassed significant goodwill with the community of Rattledam and at the Stone Temple, and with numerous folks among the Harvesters and Druids. They also have more experience with the Manfri.

See also your email for starting back up after the winter holiday.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+14=24 ; d3=3 ;
Sunday January 3rd, 2021 1:47:22 PM
Haemir is surprised to learn Grindar had taken up the druids mantle, but then considers it a natural flow and the discovery raises his opinion of druids again.

At first the prospect of months and months of diplomacy, resolving arguments and making the peace between groups (some of which had probably lived in the plains all their life) seemed likely to become tiring, but as his memory of Connor's fades he embraces it, always patient, diplomatic and open to approach he never looses his centre and has an almost inner glow of peace.

In his freetime he throws himself into learning as much as he possibly can about the plains and grasses, examines every inch of the stone temple/museum, asks questions of Manfri, monks, the occasional druid and anyone else who knows anything interesting! He makes notes, sketches, presses and dries grasses and (if possible?) learns how to make the Fastgrow, Glowtruffle, Badjujustool bags, etc. Even taking time to pick up some shipwright skills. Haemir gives (for free) his services/manual labour/magic and even knowledge, offering to open a small school (or just teach in the open) if any of the locals show any interest in learning anything.

The professor even marks the students papers (he bought from Hook City) and sends a dream report back to an old friend and fellow teacher before the term resumes. Being able to do the research and exploring the fauna keeps him motivated and happy and time flies by. After a few months he also assists passing messages (via dreamwalking) for anyone who wants to get in touch with loved one's and makes a point of personally thanking everyone involved in clearing path for the boats to cross the Crystal Mountains.

Now-and-again Haemir gathers Idiya (the stone Temple member of his coven) and with Fand they perform the ritual of the Grimalkin. Sometimes it works and sometimes it fails (he keeps himself to himself when it goes awry) and he teaches her what he can.

On the day we resume: (Handle Animal:24 - includes bonus for their asst) the ritual is successful but he remains in elf-form...

The Charter

DM Steve -- Crew Selection
Sunday January 3rd, 2021 8:04:26 PM
As construction on the ship nears its end, Virgil decides that the Sentinels should take the first one to be completed out for "sea trials." He suggests that they find a crew that they trust from among the workmen.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Monday January 4th, 2021 11:45:44 AM
Haemir suggests bringing along one of his coven members plus after a series of brief interviews collects a handful of people the group has bonded with and trusts (Ref would you like to define them as not sure how many we need?).

"Now we discussed this before n' decided against a leader, I'm ok with that but I think we need a captain O' th'ship. Th'Cap'n don't need to be in control when we're off th'boat, but we can't have five people yelling different orders to whoever is steering can we"? He shrugs. "Also, we need to decide where we're taking this beauty fer his test-run n' a name. Do we use the name the Ent had"?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Monday January 4th, 2021 12:52:32 PM

(Akuno bought 3 pastes, and 50 dhasa, for 80 gold.)

Akuno doesnt think they will need much of this stuff, but as they travel through different towns and villages, OTHER people might be well served by these things, and she was all for helping people who had it tough.
She is a bit surly over how things turned out with Conner, but no one outright labeled them as bandits, so her wrathful tongue was kept in check throughout the affair.

As time passes, she finds herself adapting a bit more and more to the tougher lifestyle of the grass. As the issue of captaining a ship comes up, Akuno thinks it over.

"Haemir don't you know how to sail already? I believe its best to let people do what they are good at. I also think that all of the alpha type heroes here could very well all start yelling commands when something gets weird. I'll follow your suggestions, and toss my catnip in the bag to support you decisions at sea ..er.. um.. grass."

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 17/12/15, CMD 17, HP 39/39 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 21/21
Monday January 4th, 2021 1:10:03 PM
Grindar says, “I have no problem with you being Captain on board the boat, but we will need to choose a 1st mate who’s in control when we are off ship, me thinks. Hey I have an idea for a maiden voyage. Why don’t we head over to Zaran City, I’d like to see the largest city in the area, plus I’ve heard there is a weapon smith there who has the skills to reforge my father’s ax.”

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Monday January 4th, 2021 2:29:41 PM
"Yup, I've sailed th'seas for three decades"... he catches himself before he tells everyone that the only reason he stopped was because of the undead whale - I mean the chances of meeting one of them here had to be slim..!
"Don't think I been to Zaran City, so tha' sounds like a good destination Grindar - works fer me"!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Monday January 4th, 2021 3:49:26 PM
Flying back to the newly completed ship, two eagles alight on the mast. One drops down to the deck, and turns into a well-rested looking elf.
"I'm back, and I agree. Haemir should captain this ship. Going to Zaran City sounds fine to me."

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday January 4th, 2021 6:03:39 PM
Captain Haemir? Sure, that sounded right. 'Lil ain't got no issues with that.

***

I went full blackout during the slowdown and am not back up to speed yet. I'll get that taken care of asap.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday January 4th, 2021 8:39:33 PM
Caelwyn smiles at his companions, glad to have them all back together. "Haemir, your experience certainly qualifies you for this position. In matters of sailing the ship, you have my support to act as captain."

Caelwyn also agrees that Zaran City is a good destination. They may make useful connections and be able to pick up some useful items there.

DM Steve -- Crew Selection
Monday January 4th, 2021 11:06:10 PM
The Sentinels agree that Haemir is best qualified to be their captain, but Grindar does bring up a point about choosing a first mate. Haemir suggests interviewing people the group has bonded with and trusts, and talks about naming the boat. The group considers Zaran City as a possible first destination.

Likely first mate candidates include Donald, Ian, and Charles, all sailors who came with the groups hired to build the boats. In the interviews, the Sentinels hear that. . .
Donald is older than the other candidates. He came to the profession of sailing as an adult, using it to improve his lot after a difficult childhood. He avoids conflict when he can, but is capable when he cannot. Donald is a tall and lean man who maintains a well-kept but serviceable appearance. His hair is long and he has a short beard, both immaculate.
Ian has experience as a sailor and a druid. His companion, a hawk, has learned tricks that help with navigation. In his opinion, his orisons and healing expertise are of more use on a ship than combat experience. Ian is a stocky man with wild hair and an unruly beard. He dresses in greens, browns, and grays. His clothes are loose-fitting.
Charles has lived around ships all his life. He is youngest of the three, but feels comfortable with the duties. Unlike the others he does not display armor or a weapon, but he has been through a handful of battles. Charles is a stocky man, obviously not afraid of labor. His hair is short cropped (so that he doesn’t have to think about it). His clothes are worn.
Each of the three has different ideas as to which of the workmen would make the best crew.

Profession: Sailor check, DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {A crew of 4 to 8 sailors could operate a vessel this size.}

Virgil gets word of the Sentinels considering naming the boat for Genyielt, and tells them the name is already taken. There are two other boats soon to be finished, and Virgil plans on using the name himself, for the (slightly) largest of the three. He also warns them not to name the vessel for any Powers, for political reasons. "Although the Maab would sound nice. . ."

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d20+11=23 ;
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 9:51:03 AM
'Lil's on board with having a knowledgeable local as first mate. "Makes sense. Gotta be someone who knows sailing, and really that ain't any of the rest of us. Also the first mate's job to kinda be the devil's advocate, isn't it? Someone to tell the captain when he's bein' stupid? Someone who ain't a Sentinel would be good for that.

None of the candidates stands out to her right away. She decides to listen to her gut on the matter.

Sense motive: 23 - Which of these candidates seems like they'd fit in best w/ the existing Sentinels members? Which seems like they'd be likely to cause problems?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d8=6 ;
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 10:20:23 AM
(Oops. Accidental d8. )

Akuno tries her best to inspect the three candidates. She knows nothing at all about sailing, especially on magical grasses. Still, she would have a real expectation of knowing how to promote talent one day. Many a kingdom was won or lost based on the merits of appointed advisors.

Of the three, Donald seems the most impressive to her. Seeking to improve your life means you have a clear distinction between what you have to lose versus what you've got. His hesitance to rely on violence and his good appearance, which means he will probably have standards for the crew as well, all sit well with her.

"I like this one!" she says, referring to him. The sentinels are the only Druids I need in my life after this last ordeal, and I don't want a young or inexperienced first mate either. Donald also seems to have drive and a grooming standard.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 11:53:54 AM
"I don't have the ability to judge character or sailing experience. I say we let Haemir pick the first mate, I have heard that is something the captain of a ship usually does."

He looks up at the mast and asks Haemir.
"Mind if I use a woodshape spell to make that crossbeam fit Aewen's feet better? I imagine he will perch there often when she is not flying, keeping watch for us."

If allowed, Thorondir will shape the wood to make a better perch for two eagles at the top of the mast or crossbeam.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+7=15 ; d20-1=17 ;
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 12:47:21 PM
Fand looks almost imperious perched on Haemir's shoulder looking candidates up and down with a raised eyebrow.

"Well we'll need a crew of 4 to 8 sailors to operate a vessel this size. I quite like Donald too, fer th'same reason Akuno said, a hesitance to rely on violence is something we could do with around here" he says with a grin.
So that the prospective candidates don't feel left out they are welcome on the boat as well (after all its the only boat up and running so far) and who knows maybe the role can rotate later on...

"Thorondir rather than reshaping the mast may I propose adding a small ahem.. Crow's nest just fer th'birds. Crow is just a word though - call it what ye like". He assists in showing where to shape some wood around the mast to achieve the job Thorondir is after. Fand loves the idea and for the first time in ages swoops around all over the place like an excited kid.

"Anyone any good at naming"?

--
(Profession Sailor:15 with an assist from Fand).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 1:06:45 PM
Sol, having very much kept to himself over the time it has taken for the boat to be built, finally returns, with new items in tow, including a headband of some description, sitting atop his head in a very noble fashion, it appears to have some silk mixed in with the metal. He also appears to have a scroll case made of Electrum with him. He seems to have gained some magical items at some point, and has returned more reinforced than ever.

He smiles as he approaches as the group is ready to leave.

"Apologise for my disappearance, I have been... preparing my arcane abilities so they are now greater than they once were. I have learnt a great many spells that we are now able to make use of."

He sits to one side, apparently more relaxed than he has been previously, his backpack, scroll case and spellbook the only things he has hanging on his person other than his clothes.

After discussing the options for first mate, Sol simply shrugs.

"I know nothing about sailing or what would make a good first mate, apologies. I will leave it up to you Haemir, you have a good head on your shoulders for these sorts of things. Call me if Arcane knowledge is needed."

He smirks at his own ineptitude when it comes to sailing.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 1:29:25 PM
Grindar is fine with any of the 1st mate options, as they all seem to have their merits, so he is fine with Donald as the man. He ponders a name for the boat and offers, “Since we are the Sentinels, why not choose a name that coincides with ours, I don’t know, something like The Guardian, or some such. This of course is just a suggestion, I’m open to other suggestions.”

OOC.. Grindar is ready for inspection

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 3:32:16 PM
Taking Haemir's direction, Thorondir climbs the mast and using wood shape spell creates what he is calling an eagle's nest.

"It is an eagle's nest, but Fand of course is welcome to it as well."

Aewen swoops down and perches on the edge of the nest, getting a feel for the perch high above the deck.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 10:24:23 PM
Caelwyn looks over the candidates. All three seem to have merit to him. "Haemir, I also believe you would be best suited to make this choice. I confess, sailing is not my forte, and I am not certain of the ideal qualities to look for in a first mate."

DM Steve -- Crew Selection 2d4+28=34 ;
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 11:06:59 PM
The Wold has 10 months of 20 days each year. The estimated three years would therefore have been 30 months. The boat will be finished in a total of 28 months. (If others were going to be built, they should go faster since there will be less to relearn.)

The craftsmen are glad to show off the boat to the Sentinels. The boat is essentially a 20' x 20' platform with druidwood joists and frame, with a tight grass basket woven around it. The lower deck, where the frame is fastened, is 8' below the main deck, which is open to the air. The main deck also has railings. Eight small cabins have been constructed on the lower deck, ensuring that the Sentinels will have their privacy but halving the amount of cargo the boat can carry. The only shelter on the main deck is a small "house" with navigation tools and a table for maps -- two humans might be able to squeeze into it as well. However, there are several small "masts" on the main deck that on closer inspection must be stanchions for securing cargo or hammocks.

The mast and the arrangement of sails is more complicated than the Sentinels have seen on any sea-going vessels, and there are anchors at each corner of the boat. A narrow ladder that the sailors insist on calling a stair connects the two decks and is located at the center of the decks. The ropes and sails are made of grass as well.

In addition to the sails that the Sentinels expected to see, an incomplete device hangs off the back of the ship. "That's the fan," one of the men explains. "The fan's sails are stowed until you need them. We found some records in the museum. It's not fast, and it takes a lot of work to use, but you may need it in the seasonal doldrums."

The first mate candidates accept Haemir's offer to see the vessel with the Sentinels, as they wait for him to decide. It is clear from their dealings with the craftsmen that they have all seen it before. Donald and Ian hover around the Sentinels, ready to show off their knowledge. Charles spends as much time talking with the craftsmen as he spends talking to the adventurers.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 8:15:46 AM
Grindar is impressed with the ships construction, and can't wait to set sail on the maiden voyage. "That fan device is pretty neat, how does it work?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 11:51:18 AM

Akuno takes a look up at the Eagles nest, and gives it a frown. "I'm not climbing that.", she announces to whomever is listening. Instead, she taps the nose of one supple hide boot, dyed red with black trims and golden buckles, on the ground. She secures her dresses, then prompty levitates up to the top where she can offer to "preen", not pet, Aewen. She checks the feathers for bugs and mites, flicks one away, and leaves a bit of saved animal scraps on the railing for the pretty bird.

She leaves the eagle to her business, and takes advantage of the view. "You can see so much up here Thorondir. Nothings going to sneak up on you!" She sighs. "We are pretty lucky you've stuck around, Mr. Druid. I think you are going to be super important to the boat. I'm not quite sure what I can do though. It's been two years, I've only figured out two more magics, and well...I'm not sure at all how I can help on the ship." She pouts a little, droopy tailed.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 3:25:33 PM
Sol smiles at Akuno.

"I would be glad to share some of my knowledge if you would like... I learnt quite a bit over the last few years... but after all... that is what I enjoy."

He looks over the boat enjoying getting to know it. He spends time chatting with the candidates trying to get to know them all a bit better.

"I would quite like to learn that spell you have just used... I found the ability to Fly, but not the ability to just levitate... which I suppose is somewhat odd..."

((OoC: Sol is not quite ready to be looked over))

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 6:56:37 PM
Thorondir smiles as he sees Akuno levitate up and preen Aewen.
"Levitating is a nice new trick. Not only can you come up and help at the eagle's nest, but if danger is on the ground you can do your magic up where it is safer. I think you are going to be a lot of help. Sol too. So you can fly now? Do you grow wings or have you found a way to fly without them?"

Thorondir looks over the ship.
"So, have we picked cabins yet? I don't like being hemmed inside. I suppose I'll use one on occasion, I really don't have anything to store and Aewen likes being outside too."

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 8:17:07 PM
Most of her dudes seem to be gravitatin' towards this Donald fellah. She figures she'll take a close look at the other two, figuring the last thing they need right now is a bandwagon.

One'a them's a druid, and though she ain't proud of the thought, that's a deal breaker to her. The Sentinels have enough, and the ones that ain't with them have caused some significant trouble. The other though...he seems like an alright guy. She can see him being a good first mate, but not good enough to warrant debating her dudes when they seem on board with Donald. She still wants her gut to chime in on the issue, though.

Sense motive: 23 - Which of these candidates seems like they'd fit in best w/ the existing Sentinels members? Which seems like they'd be likely to cause problems?

She looks at the three of them, waiting to prove themselves while her dudes fawn over the new ship. Ain't nothing wrong with fawning over it; it's a fine vessel. She assumes, anyway. It looks good, but she's no expert. Charles seems to be the only one talking with the craftsmen instead of waiting to prove himself. That right there endears him to her, yes it does.

She clears her throat, trying to get her dudes' attention. "Think we should have a discussion with our potential first mates here, don't ya think?" She looks expectantly at Haemir, figuring the captain should kick things off.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+7=22 ; d20+8=22 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+7=18 ;
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 10:41:05 PM
Haemir studies the arrangement of sails noting the differences and similarities, considers the implications
(Prof Sailor:22 (granting himself a +2 bonus using 1/8 'guide/mislead') he ponders the best way to sail this unique vessel).
Then he says to Thorondir: "We can always ask'em to remove some o'th'cabins but during the day th'shade below deck will be soothing "!

Excusing himself he walks away and places his bag down gently, the professor and the parrot exchange a glimpse and Fand suddenly bolts upwards and then dives back down in an arc whilst the professor places his hands against his thighs, pauses and then forward sumersaults, as he does Fand flies through the doughnut he makes. (Acrobatics:22 and Fly:13 for Fand). They execute the manoeuver flawlessly - like they'd been practacing for years. Who'd have figured? One boat and suddenly it felt like a hundred years had melted away. Fand's coat even seems shinier too!?

After his discreet-ish juvenile flip he returns and if all the sentinels agree regarding Ian (the druid)?: "Think you'd be a valuable asset n' sound perfect but we already have a crow, a macaw, an eagle.. well two n'occasion! So we've got every compass point covered. Plus we literally got a boat load o'druids"...

Then when 'Lil mentions talking to the candidates Haemir almost breathes a sigh of relief. Initially he'd been leaning towards the older guy, but now he watched them some doubt set in. If the group came to combat on the ship, someone would still have to do the actual sailing, yeah it's great if they can fight but we technically we'll do that bit. Duncan seemed eager to impress yet Charles was listening and probably asking questions, plus he'd lived around ships all his life. Also something grated on Haemir about the way Donald looked immaculate, did it mean he paid attention to detail? Or did it mean he spent a lot of time grooming himself? Haemir wasn't the most confident of his ability to read people (ironically he related to plants better), so he decides on another plan.

Staring at Charles, then Donald (using 'guide/mislead' on each (3/8) he grants -2 on their next Sv or skill) and then he turns his back and walks around moving his hands discreetly through complex finger-gestures. When done he turns around and asks them. "So, how old are ye both n' how many years ye been sailing"? He monitors the conversation whilst the sentinels ask a few other questions, it's not really about what they say, Haemir will be looking for what they don't...
---

(Sense Motive:18)
(Silently casts detect thoughts - (Will DC:17) they both get -2 on Sv's).

DM Steve -- Crew Selection d20+3=21 ; d20+4=11 ;
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 11:34:02 PM
Grindar asks about the fan and receives an explanation. It's not exactly like the ones they found descriptions for, because there was not enough room for it all. This would require sailors to operate it, more or less like some ships have rowers.

Akuno, Sol, and Thorondir chat with each other. Thorondir mentions how he prefers being outside before he actually sees the cabins and realizes how cramped they are. There's room in each for a small bed, with storage under the bed or high on the walls. The Sentinels who use them will definitely learn to sit up slowly so as not to hit their heads. But each represents privacy that the crew won't have. In fact, the crew will sling hammocks where they can each night, and may have them three high if everyone tries to be out of the weather.

'Lil tries to get a bead on their candidates, more than what they say about themselves. 'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {All three of the candidates seem trustworthy. Everything Ian emphasizes as his strengths is something one or another of the Sentinels can already contribute. Between the two, Donald may be a slightly better fit than Charles.}

Haemir lets Ian know that he would not be the best fit for this group, and turns his attention to Donald and Charles. After surreptitiously casting a spell, he asks the two about their experience. Charles reiterates that he has grown up with boats. He has been working on or around them as long as he can remember, although he supposes that he's only actually been sailing a dozen of those years. He's in his early mid-twenties. Donald says he has also been sailing a dozen years, although he was getting close to twenty when he started. Haemir: Highlight to display spoiler: {Charles has no guile in his thoughts. Haemir cannot get a read on Donald.}

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 11:41:11 PM
Caelwyn is impressed with the ship, and pleased with the work that has been done. He takes time acquainting himself with the vessel and its particulars.

He also has an eye on the remaining candidates, curious as to who Haemir thinks would be the best fit as first mate on the ship.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21 d20+14=23 ;
Thursday January 7th, 2021 5:43:49 AM
Grindar has made it clear that he has no preference towards who the 1st mate will be so he decides to go hunting with Llew. Before he heads out he asks Thorondir if he would like to join the hunt. (survival 23)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Thursday January 7th, 2021 10:11:59 AM

Akuno blinks, then sticks out one small foot. "Its my boots I made that levitate. I can't do it alone. I wanted an accessory for my dress, so I made these. I had a wizard cast the spell for me at the right time."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Thursday January 7th, 2021 6:36:12 PM
Sol smiles at Thorondir, as he takes out a handful of seed and Corbin, the rarely present raven sits on Sol's shoulder and begins pecking at the seed. Thorondir and Akuno are sure, and would swear they heard the Raven say "Thank you!"

"I managed to find a copy of the spell during the last couple of years... and several other spells besides. I can now allow myself to fly for a few minutes at a time. I thought it may be useful to help avoid engagements I do not wish to be on the ground during. But we shall see how much use it turns out to be, in either case, it has increased my arcane knowledge, which I feel can only be a good thing."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Thursday January 7th, 2021 7:24:29 PM
There wasn't much between them other than maybe levels of ambition?!
"I think Donald, but I'd like Charles on the crew. He's got the makings of a good n' honest sailor""!

"Let's crew it with six, so choose two each n' I think it'll be hammocks on deck for now he slaps them on the backs and congratulates them before joining the Sentinels.

"It's good to see you all again. You've all grown on me n' not in a carbuncle, or barnacles.. Well anyway, we all went through a big change in our lives, moving to the Plains two years ago. So fer a name.. The 'Last-change' spelt L.A.S.T.C.H.G."!? Some of you may hear him mumble under his breath something about initials?!

He wasn't sure why but he felt like it was a new chapter in his life, things were going to change and he could smell the fresh air.
Later that day he created his first ever captains log.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+6=19 ;
Thursday January 7th, 2021 7:52:56 PM
"Boots?" Thorondir looks at Akuno's feet and carefully assesses them. "I expected they were a fashion item only, I think you will surprise a lot of folk who seem to overlook you and expect you all pomp and circumstance."

"Well Sol, it appears you have used your time wisely. Though Ravens will eat seed, I would think he would prefer a bit of meat from time to time. They really like to scavenge, which of course is a good thing. Folks seem to look down on scavengers, but they are very important."

Thorondir is most excited though when Grindar invites him to hunt. He changes into an eagle and follows after them with Aewen.

Survival 19

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday January 7th, 2021 9:04:30 PM
'Lil nods, her own gut agreeing with Haemir. She really does hope Charles sticks around though. 'Lil ain't a sailor, and knows her head ain't big enough to fit learning how to sail without sacrificing something else. Can't put two gallons of smarts in a one gallon bucket...

She does want a cabin though. Thought of living on a boat was hard enough for the city girl. Not even having a proper four walls and a door to go along with it was too much.

She wonders what's next...

DM Steve -- Crew Selection
Thursday January 7th, 2021 10:22:13 PM
Caelwyn familiarizes himself with the ship while waiting for Haemir to decide who should be first mate. Haemir proposes having Donald as first mate, and Charles on crew. 'Lil agrees. Haemir also suggests the boat be named the L.A.S.T.C.H.G.

Charles declines the offer to crew. "Thanks for the offer, but there's three of us, and three boats being built," he explains. "I like my odds of a top spot on one of the others."

Seeing that Haemir seems to be in charge of the crew decisions, Donald offers to point out a number of men that would be good crew. Haemir said he was looking for about six; Donald* knows of eight likely candidates. The Sentinels can all decide after meeting them, or Haemir can.

Grindar and Thorondir, having seen enough of the ship to satisfy themselves, go hunting. They bring back enough food for all of the Sentinels plus some.

Akuno and Sol talk shop, and fashion. And combining the two.

There is a bit of a christening ceremony planned for the end of the week, and after that the boat will be ready for a trial run.

* Edit -- I mistakenly said "Haemir knows of eight. . ." when Donald is telling Haemir about eight he may consider.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21
Friday January 8th, 2021 5:48:27 AM
"I don't know about that name brother" Grindar says as he tries to pronounce it but for some reason seems to struggle. "Of course, I'm fine with the majorities choice, but what about "The Guardian" or "The Warden", as those would be a names that applies to us as well, us calling ourselves Sentinels and all, or for a more traditional name, how about, "The Maiden of the Plains". That's just my 2 coppers worth of ideas, anyone else have a name to throw out?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Friday January 8th, 2021 7:07:23 AM
"Actually I quite like The Maiden of the Plains"!

If having reviewed the boat and assessed the space if it needs eight - eight it is (if they can all fit), otherwise six.. Haemir is not fussed if Donald chooses the crew and looks forward to the journey.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Friday January 8th, 2021 2:47:29 PM

Akuno beams. "Feel free to call me the Maiden of the Plains." She puts a finger on a lip. "I mean, Princess of the Plains or something might be more accurate, but I'm not to my knowledge pledged to anyone so.."

She floats down back to the deck below, giggling at the cute name she thinks Grindar just gave her.

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d20+11=27 ;
Friday January 8th, 2021 4:37:13 PM
Maiden of the Plains? Yea...yea she dug that. She's sad to see Charles head out, but sure can't begrudge him. Sounds like he's doing what's best for him.

What she's not on board with is Douglas just picking all the crew. 'Lil trusted her gut. She didn't really want to let folks who tripped her alarms serve on what looked like it would be a kind of home to her.

"Haemir, you sure you don't want to have some say in who's gonna crew your vessel?" She waits for an answer and observes should he choose to interview anyone.

Sense motive for potential crew mates, looking for signs of future trouble: 27

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Friday January 8th, 2021 9:10:52 PM
Haemir's initial funk was over Connor walking away, he liked the guy but would put in a good word for him. 'Lil's question breaks its spell and he snaps back. "Hmm? Yes, 'Lil. Let's see the ones Duncan suggests first".

There's a week till we sail so plenty of time. Haemir proposes a plan to interview them with some well thought out questions and between Caelwyn detecting evil, himself mind-reading and'Lil people-reading hopefully they had most angles covered?!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Saturday January 9th, 2021 9:57:13 AM
Not caring much for formalities, Thorondir doesn't care what it is named. "Call it what you will. To me it will be an eagle's rest. Closest thing to a tree out here in the plains."

Thorondir spends time with Aewen flying as an eagle while the group struggles with naming a ship and picking a crew.

DM Steve -- Crew Selection
Saturday January 9th, 2021 1:23:59 PM
While the final touches are being made to the vessel, the party engage in their various pursuits. This includes Haemir, Caelwyn, and 'Lil selecting a suitable crew. Haemir finds the men Donald has pointed out are all capable sailors, and Caelwyn finds no evil intent among them. 'Lil is a little uneasy.

'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {The men Donald points out seem quite earthy and unrefined. Maybe it's just a sailor thing. 'Lil thinks the Insiders might feel they "eat grass." (That is, they might rub the locals wrong.)}

The name Maiden of the Plains seems to resonate with most of the Sentinels. Especially Akuno.

Grindar realizes the cabins are not big enough for him to share his with Llew.

Haemir considers crew size. Donald recommends a larger crew in anticipation of long journeys. He agrees that a crew of four can readily handle the boat for shorter stretches. The question is, what sort of mission are they preparing for? Sea trials would normally mean sailing around in the area to make sure the boat works as expected. But after a week or two of that, the Sentinels must have something in mind.

While the boat is being finished, the Sentinels also have opportunities to visit with Virgil, Sprocket, and Attius if they wish.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Saturday January 9th, 2021 6:13:05 PM
Sol agrees that Maiden of the Plains is a good though he mentions being partial to The Warden too. However, like most things, he's willing to go with the groups decision. He doesn't get involved with picking the crew, but he does watch and listen to understand HOW Haemir comes to his decisions so he can learn about choosing the right people for the right job.

Sol will spend the rest of the time they have spare familiarising himself with the ship in more detail, trying to get an understanding from Haemir or Donald (or both, if possible!) which parts of the ship are likely to get damaged/broken in the event of battle, so he can be ready to use Mending on them if needs be, he will also check in with the Druids to ensure that casting Mending on the boat won't offend them in anyway.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21
Sunday January 10th, 2021 4:45:53 PM
Grindar smiles to himself that his name suggestion went over so well, and smiles even harder when Akuno thinks he is referring to her. He doesn't have the heart to tell her he was referring to the boat.

When Grindar realizes Llew won't fit with him inside the cabin assigned to him, he grumbles a bit. He realizes he has no use for a cabin that doesn't accommodate his needs. Though he's frustrated by his findings, he opts to sleep on the deck, at the front of the boat, curled up in his bedroll, using Llew as a pillow, his gear and weapons by his side. When he had heard he was going to have his own cabin, he was looking forward to having a place of his own to share with his feline friend, a place the two could call home, but after seeing the hopelessly small accommodations, he just shakes his head and walks away from it, He's not even sure if he would have enough room to stretch out his 6'10" frame, in such a cramped space.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Sunday January 10th, 2021 6:32:33 PM
Thorondir goes to his cabin next to Grindar's. He starts working using his dagger as a tool, and soon the wall between them is gone.
"Grindar, come and see your new cabin. I hope it is big enough for you to share with Llew now. I only ask that in the event of rain you allow me to huddle in a corner. Since rain comes rarely to the Sargrass, I don't expect that to occur."

He then goes and talks to Virgil.
"The druids are divided. Please tell me what you would have me do."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday January 10th, 2021 10:51:15 PM
Caelwyn accompanies Thorondir to see Virgil. Once he has spoken with him, he hopes to ask Virgil more about the rift between the druids. He is also curious how Virgil feels about 3 ships being made from Genyielt's body, and whether he intends to captain any of them as he previously suggested.

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday January 11th, 2021 10:35:46 AM
'Lil ain't too concerned with a small living space. Her own bedroom back at her Ma's was barely bigger than a closet anyway. She would like some hooks on the wall to make sure Maya and Ramona are in easy reach, but that seems easy enough.

She ponders the "what to do next" question. Since the start'a all this, she's been pretty convinced that Rattledam's future is made or broken on getting good folks there safely. Be them folks merchants on trade routes or tradesman looking to help start the town, getting people into Rattledam safely has been her #1 goal. She ponders a moment to make sure it still is, and finds it is.

She looks at the boat. Is it big enough to carry folks? Folks and gear? Folks and gear and materials? She tries to figure out how much stuff can be carried on it other than the Sentinels and the ship's crew.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21
Monday January 11th, 2021 7:18:45 PM
“Thanks Brother! Of course we will find a place for you and yours should it ever become a need!” Grindar says as he is blown away by Thorondir’s generosity.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Monday January 11th, 2021 7:59:41 PM
Crew wise it makes sense to train all eight but for shorter journeys use fewer.

"Well dunno about any of ye but I've never sailed across a sharp sea before, every sailor knows if ye fall overboard into th'sea ye just need t'know how t'swim. Falling overboard in th'Plains will have a hard landin if yer lucky. Unlucky folk end up run through by steal-grass. So, try notta fall off"! He says breaking into a jovial grin. " I suggest those that can have standby spells, those that can't" he holds up several lengths of rope (probably bought at the bazaar made of lots of vines interwoven and just as tough). "might be worth securing yerself"?!

In the two years Haemir would have read everything he could about these druid-boats but it someone mentions something he hasn't read (especially stuff no one has translated yet) he'll spend some more time reading and chatting with the crafters and where there texts/notes came from etc.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Monday January 11th, 2021 8:55:14 PM

Akuno doesn't really have a lot to do on the boat. That doesn't stop her from trying to pitch in. Anytime there's simple labor or rote chores, she sets her minions to it whenever she can. "Swab faster, you blobbery whotsit!" She overlords her unseen servants with an iron fist.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday January 11th, 2021 11:16:42 PM
Caelwyn is sure to give Thorondir his chance to speak with Virgil privately, if he desires it, before posing his own questions.

DM Steve -- Crew Selection
Monday January 11th, 2021 11:25:03 PM
The days pass quickly, and the Maiden of the Plains is ready to launch.

Haemir, watched by Sol, does his best to make sure that Donald makes competent recommendations for the crew. Haemir makes sure eight men are familiar with the vessel, although for shorter trips he will probably not use them all. This leads them to raise the question of where their home port will be then.

Grindar and Thorondir customize the non-structural elements of the living quarters somewhat. (Grindar may want to work on the furniture, too, which seems absurdly large to the Manfri weavers when sized for an average human.)

Thorondir and Caelwyn talk to Virgil about the druids. Virgil is more surprised to hear Thorondir asking about this than Caelwyn. "We've been divided a long time, and you've never had much to do with either side," he mentions. "In any case, as you know the majority of druids await the return of the forest. A smaller number of us worry that the plains have their place, too, after so long. When Maab told me to allow a boat to be built, she put me firmly in opposition to the majority of our family. But she told me that this group of outsiders would be able to find a solution to the divisions we insiders have made. . . As for having three ships instead of one, it surprised me when the sailors said it could be done. But you were at the negotiations as well as I was. You will have the use of one ship, the Maiden, for yourselves and Rattledam. I will have the Genyielt. The sailors would have us keep the ships together, so they can help each other out. But I believe the politics of the situation lends itself to letting local communities benefit equally from the third."

'Lil worries about what to do next. The Maiden has lost half her carrying capacity to the cabins for the Sentinels. It can still carry about five tons of cargo (according to the sailors) or 15 men in addition to the Sentinels. 'Lil can tell those won't be fun conditions for travel, though.

Akuno has her servants pitch in where she can. She becomes very popular with the crew.

At the christening ceremony, Virgil presents each of the party members with a gift that he tells them comes from Maab: Each character receives a ring -- a broad, gold band with the scene of a ship. The group as a whole receives back from Virgil the compass that they gave to him when they met. Virgil stresses how important it is that they keep this compass safe. Finally, Virgil presents them with an agreement that he wishes them to sign. It contains a code that the Sentinels are to abide by while they use the Maiden of the Plains, and charges them to return the boat to Virgil under a variety of circumstances including failure to follow this code. He doesn't think it should be a problem, as the words are not his. . .

Our desire is to be the kind of people others can look to as heroes. We will strive to remain impartial when dealing with the different groups here in the Plains, though if one of more of the peoples here wishes to adopt us in spite of that, we would see the honor in that and accept graciously. We are Sentinels, or guardians of you prefer. We guard the innocent and the weak. We guard against injustice and wrong doing. We guard against evil in all it's forms, both intentional and unintentional.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 6:01:38 AM
Grindar accepts his ring from Virgil, thanking the druid for the thoughtful gift. when he reads the code Virgil asks them to sign, at first he almost bursts out laughing, as he realizes his own words are on the parchment, and this "Code" is part of his argument from the druid council, but eventually tears begin to well up, in his eyes, as he realizes the strength his word carried. He gladly signs the agreement, as he says, "It's strange to see my own words in writing, but I believed in them then, and still believe in those words now. When I look at my comrades, I see the same belief in all of us. After all, we are the Sargrass Sentinels!"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 11:26:11 AM
Sol smiles at the ring, and carefully puts it on a thread and ties the thread around his neck, wearing the wide band as a necklace. He warmly smiles at Grindar's response.

"Truer words have never been spoken Grindar. We are the Sargrass Sentinels." he says as he signs his own name.

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 3:39:31 PM
'Lil slips the ring on her finger. She's not a lover of jewelry, but it's simple and pretty. "We sure seem to be swearin' to a lot of stuff lately, don't we? Folks really seem to wanna be sure we're on the up and up." She takes the oath, of course, mostly cause she's gonna do all that stuff anyway.

"There's more room for stuff on this ship than I thought there would be," she notes happily. She lightly elbows Haemir. "So what we gonna use it for, Cap? Way I remember not too long ago, we all agreed to get ourselves a ship before moving on to the part where we start bringing Rattledam all the stuff and people it needs to grow. I know I still think that's a good idea, but it's something we ain't discussed in a while. Also, Thorondir and our princess weren't around back then. They should probably get some input too." She leaves out the part where Haemir came back as something completely different.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 9:11:23 PM
Speaking to Virgil, Thorondir explains:
"Please do not be surprised at my question. We both know the divisions of the druids. I merely stated a fact and asked a question "The druids are divided. Please tell me what you would have me do." So my question remains, what would you have me do? If the Sentinels are attacked by deadly force again by Connor or another, I would prefer a clear path of action. The strength of our group in battle can have deadly consequences, for ourselves as well as our adversaries. So, do you have advice for us in this matter?"

Thorondir takes the ring and puts it in his pouch and then signs the paper. When alone, he asks Sol if the rings radiate magic.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 10:00:40 PM
Haemir reads (and assuming it's ok) signs the paper.
"Thanks fer the compass Virgil! If my memory serves me didn't ye tweak it so it directed us to th'druid wood"? He enquires if the compass can point to places they know of (e.g. Rattledam, the newly created pass). "Because let's face it everything moves around down here, so maps n' conventional navigation are useless"...

To the party: "Can't speak for yer all, remember I'm only in charge o'the maiden. But I kinda made a promise we'd go get Grindar's ancestral axe some juju. But then like ye say 'Lil, we need to look at the big picture. Maybe we can take this journey to discuss the future"!?

No doubt some of the Sentinels may have noticed some weird things kept happening around Haemir, like when he vomited spiders, or when he blinked in-and-out of reality for a while, but so far either by luck or the extreme kindness no one had challenged him about it all. Which was good because it saved him the embarrassment of saying he didn't have an explanation or a clue.

Haemir wasn't really sure where all this came from and didn't really see any reason for secrecy but Coven's were traditionally witchery secret stuff and so by nature Haemir felt kind of obligated to keep it quiet that he'd discreetly formed one, and even if he did (their names changed to protect their identity) with the scribe 'Idiya' at the Stone Temple and 'Stardust' a manfri who enjoyed facepaint, all it would take was one person in Rattledam to join the 'coven of the Silver Dragon' and then the Sentinels would be able to instantaneously communicate between New Rattledam, the Stone Temple, the Manfri and the Maiden (or wherever the party was) through them or cauldrons. That could prove to be interesting! So, there was certainly a reason for Rattledam plus 'have we not seen it for nearly there years' he wonders. In reality though he was up for anywhere.

Haemir also finds a quiet moment to ask: "Sol, any thoughts on these rings"?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 10:37:14 PM

Akuno looks at the ring. "It does have some rustic charm I suppose. It's a pretty trinket, and it has some nice meaning. Its value is in the heart, not the gold." She smiles, then slips it on. "MY intentions are clear, Thorondir. Next time someone raises force to one of us, the threat should be removed! I won't stop until it is!" She shifts her eyes left and right, looking for gainsayers or laughter at her small stature compared to such a large boast."I don't consider deadly force off the table! We will do good in this world, but we won't make ourselves victims in doing so!"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 11:24:51 PM
Caelwyn smiles, bowing to Virgil as he receives his ring. "I will gladly sign this contract, for it does but state again the basic tenants of my own devotion to Domi. May we guard the lives of the innocent as best we are able!"

DM Steve -- Crew Selection
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 11:40:03 PM
With the Sentinels on board, the sailors begin the work of putting the Maiden of the Plains through her paces in the area around the Stone Temple village, not venturing far from the town yet. Riding on the boat, above the grass, is a very different perspective than slogging through the grass provided -- one that only Thorondir has really enjoyed until now.

For instance, not far west of town and slightly north, near the area where the ground is strewn with boulders, the Sentinels can now see there is a gap in the mountains. But the grasses there grow so thick and tall that someone moving among them can hardly see forty feet.

"Sea trials" include going through the gap after a week. This requires the assistance of folks on the ground, to use the winching system laid out here. Although there is a gap here, the slope of the ground is still too steep to simply sail through. By this time, the cramped conditions on the ship make the task of guarding the ground crew in case of predators seem relaxing. Rattledam is supposed to be less than a week from the north side of the pass.

Once the trials are successful, and over, Donald asks Haemir where the boat will be headed, and when.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 5:50:45 AM
With his weapons at the ready, Grindar pitches in wherever he can put his strength to best use, during the trials. I does his best to glean any knowledge of ship craft that he can. He knows he will never best Haemir in that area, nor does he wish too, but he does have a desire to be of use while on board the Maiden.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 5:59:18 AM
"Zaran City first". Haemir tells Duncan "Then leaning to Rattledam, but we'll decide on the way".

Haemir experiments with the compass (did Virgil explain it it does anything? pls see last post). He will also cast detect magic on the rings.

Haemir is happy to instruct anyone who wants to learn

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 9:04:11 AM
'Lil's willing to learn to be helpful, though she ain't sure she's a natural and even more ain't sure she'll turn into a great sailor someday.

OOC: 'Lil gets a tiny amount of skill points :D

She had hoped to go right to Rattledam, but a quick trip to Zaran city makes some sense and she ain't gonna start questioning Haemir on the vessel he's captaining.

She ponders his leadership role on the boat. She'd never thought that put her in a leadership position above herself, nor any other Sentinel. It did give his word some weight though, at least while at sea...or grass, or whatever they say.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 12:26:59 PM
Not getting an answer to his question from Virgil, Thorondir decides that he will have to make his own decisions if the time comes. Speaking to the Sentinels he says:

"I will do my best to help the Sentinels. I was originally asked to help you until the ship was built. When I asked Virgil what he would have me do, he refused to answer my questions. So, without further instructions I am left to my own decisions. I will travel with you and fight when necessary, to the death if needed. We all will nourish the plants eventually. If this ship is attacked though, I will fight the attackers to the death. No matter who they may be."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 6:44:28 PM
Sol looks at the rings.

"I have no idea... I did not think to check them for magic. I assumed we would have been told if they were magical... however perhaps not. As I am assuming that is what you were getting at?"

Sol will use Identify during one of the days they have downtime before the trials on the rings to see if there is anything about them that may be of use to know.

Sol spends some time trying to understand more about the boat... perhaps not enough to become skilled, but to know enough to not cause issues with it, but also helps with the trials where possible, despite is less than physically strong frame.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 10:11:47 PM
Caelwyn is pleased to see the ship perform well, and does his best to help out however he can. "Zaran City is a good first destination...and it will be worthwhile to check up on Rattledam soon as well. We need to be sure that we are keeping the people there safe."

DM Steve -- Crew Selection
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 11:41:41 PM
Grindar, 'Lil, and Caelwyn pitch in onboard the boat. They find that sailing isn't as difficult as they expected, or maybe they're just given jobs suitable for beginners. 'Lil and Caelwyn mention looking forward to going to Rattledam soon.

Haemir tells Donald to plan for a trip to Zaran City first, then maybe Rattledam. Donald estimates that he will need 250 gold pieces to outfit the ship for the trip. That's mostly for food, and includes food for the Sentinels as well as the crew. Understand, there's no room for much in the way of food preparation. Everything he gets has to be preserved.

Haemir also confirms that the compass and all of the rings are magic. Virgil did not explain what the compass does when he gave it to the group. When Haemir asks, Virgil says that 'Lil gave it to him, telling him it was what the group used to find the druid grove. He figures it's safe enough back in the Sentinels' hands, unless they have misgivings about accepting it. If they don't want the responsibility of safeguarding it, he will keep it.

Sol confirms spends some time identifying his ring. He, too, decides sailing is not difficult when supervised. Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {Sol's ring continually grants the wearer a +5 competence bonus on Profession: Sailor checks.}

Thorondir decides that he is a Sentinel, not merely a druid tasked with tagging along to observe them or keep them out of trouble.

As word spreads that the ship is ready and will be leaving soon, the Sentinels find themselves the center of attention in town. There are many requests for them to bring back this or that -- mostly small items (that would still add up to a lot of space), but requests for brides are also common. And enough folks are willing to pay now for the promise of something later that it's clear they're serious. Obviously it's no secret that they're headed for a real city.

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21
Thursday January 14th, 2021 5:46:05 AM
Grindar, happily pays his portion of the outfitting cost, and makes ready to set sail. He is surprised, when Sol tells them what the rings do, and an even greater feeling of gratitude fills him, as he realizes it is more then just a token of friendship.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Thursday January 14th, 2021 8:45:33 AM
With the breeze in his hair and the sun in the sky it felt just like sailing.. Ok it was a little wrong there was no actual sea, but the rustling of the grass sounded like waves, plus you didn't have to worry about the boat rocking, people getting sea-sick or storms! Haemir plays it fair as Captain, treating the crew respectfully, but he's seen enough good (and bad) sailors in his time to know if someone is slacking, or just needs some tuition and he doesn't suffer fools gladly. The crew should be working like a fine tuned instrument within a day or two and he chips in with his own fair share.

During the week he thanks Virgil for the compass and tries a few tests naming where they want to go etc. If he gets nothing he asks Sol if he minds identifying it?! He knows originally it simply pointed to druid wood. If it still only points to the ship he accepts it as simply a way of finding the boat which could come in handy. If anyone wishes to carry it he's fine otherwise he will put it in his bag to keep it safe.

"The food n' supplies should come from party funds" (OOC adjusted) he says then adds:
"Oh yeah th'Maiden's cramped, but bare with me I have an idea. Give me a few months n' I'll find a way to weave in some kind of inter-dimensional pocket-mansion where ye can go order food n' sleep in delicious soft beds with servants 'n all sorts, maybe even a swimming pool. Meanwhile I can happily store food n' stuff in my bag o' holding too"!

Haemir catches 'Lil giving him the same look he gave his first captain. Actually every captain he'd ever served under, that moment when you realise you're putting your trust in them, 'appraisal'. Well he had put it to the crew prior that Zaran should be the first place and no one objected, "Makes sense to drop off Grindar's axe n' if the craftsman needs a few days we can go to Rattledam. It's time to decide where we will be based n' long term plans. Do we act as merchants"? He encourages open discussion below deck about their future and thanks Thorondir for sticking around.

(Q to ref: how are we navigating? I'm assuming we can't see distant cities and there are no maps).

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday January 14th, 2021 1:04:54 PM
'Lil ain't bringing no one no wife. That ain't happening.

She's fine paying a portion of the provisions, but figures the boat's gonna have to pay for itself pretty soon. Her line of work's expensive. Wearing the ring, she realizes she's picking up on the basics of sailing faster than she figured she would. That's good.

She speaks up when Haemir does. "Well, we've got a geas on us to make sure we build up a town, and we agreed to it, so that's what we should do. We already started building up Rattledam, and it needs the most work, so my vote's there." She's pretty certain that won't surprise no one.

She ain't sure of what to think about the compass. She trusts herself and her dudes to guard it, but should something so important be floating around the grasses? In the wrong hands that's a big deal. Last thing the druids here need is another baron.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Thursday January 14th, 2021 4:03:37 PM
"Thanks Sol, sounds like the ring will come in handy. I don't trust magic enough to wear a magical ring without knowing what it does. I wonder why Virgil didn't bother to tell us about them?"

"Who is collecting money for the group wands and food for the ship? I have it here." He counts out some platinum pieces to meet his obligation.

When not needed as ship crew or by the Sentinels, Thorondir spends most of his time wild shaped into an eagle and spending time with Aewen. They spend time in the eagle's nest, liking the view it gives him.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Thursday January 14th, 2021 10:41:16 PM

Akuno does the same.

"I can use the wand in a pinch, but its best if someone who can cast cure light holds it." She shrugs on the current topic. "I kind of want to find a new place or slay a big monster. I want to bring some fame to our little village! I want our name out there!" She swings an unseen servant or two around like a pair of weapons. "Yea!"

DM Steve -- Crew Selection
Thursday January 14th, 2021 11:58:38 PM
Q: How are you navigating?

A: The sailors have instruments that are pretty accurate at telling them how far they are north or south, any night they care to look. Anyone trained in survival can find north, East and west they're judging by the angle from true north to that big mountain over there. Once that mountain can't be seen, they'll pick another, so long as they can see any. The Crystal Mountains run east-west through pretty much the center of the plains. There's no humidity -- they should be able to see the mountains from a hundred and fifty miles away, maybe more.

There are "no maps of the plains" because there's not really anything to map. Rumors that there are no maps started because the old Rattledam went to great lengths to not be on any maps, and the Baron's Men kept their locations secret too. And Rattledam was pretty much the only sizeable town other than Oddholme. Nowadays, the Harvesters are nomadic, so they can't be mapped. Mapping seems foreign to the Manfri. The druids keep to themselves remembering the Baron's Men. And the monks are diminished from what they once were. Still, the crew has started their own chart, even if it's just the one village and the nearby mountains so far.

Haemir experiments with the compass and finds that it seems to point to the nearest boat, whether that's the Maiden of the Plains or one of the two still being built. At least, without straying miles from town.

Thorondir takes an opportunity to talk with Virgil to ask why he didn't tell then what the rings did. He responds it was because he didn't know. He also asks Thorondir to keep a particular eye on the compass.

Everyone is eager to set sail, and money to cover costs for the trip is readily collected, what with at least five of them ready to pitch in. There is some talk about the ship paying for itself, but that will have to be figured out at a later date.

When Haemir talks about leaving Grindar's axe a few days, Donald pipes up. "You do realize I'm laying in a month's worth of food just to get to the western edge of the plains, don't you? Don't know it will take quite that long, but I'm figuring we may have to scout about a bit, too, since we don't know exactly where it is."

Haemir suggests open discussion about where to base themselves. 'Lil points out, "Well, we've got a geas on us to make sure we build up a town, and we agreed to it, so that's what we should do. We already started building up Rattledam, and it needs the most work, so my vote's there." Rattledam is northeast of the Stone Temple and on the other side of the mountains, but should only be four or six days by boat.

When Akuno starts swinging her unseen servants -- which probably no one realized she could do -- things get a bit distracting. It's like being hit by a large, thin-skinned, invisible bladder full of air.

When the day comes to set out, Donald asks, "Well, Captain, seems like it's fifty-fifty whether we want to be on the other side of the mountains when we reach the western edge of the plains. Which side shall we try?"

Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 22, HP 39/39 Llew AC 20/14/16, CMD 16, HP 21/21
Friday January 15th, 2021 6:21:02 AM
Grindar overhears Donald's comment to Haemir about the time in Zaran City, and says, "If your worried about running out of food, you should know you have two skilled hunters/foragers in our group, myself and Thorondir. I'm sure I can speak for both of us when I say we won't let anyone go hungry, and besides, we can always re-provision in Zaran City, if needed. As far as water is concerned, many of us can cast create water, and do so as many times as it takes, so don't worry about being thirsty.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Friday January 15th, 2021 12:41:38 PM
'(Pop), there it was - the sound of my bubble being burst'. Haemir was beginning to think he'd been a good teacher till he sees 'Lil tie a clove hitch and a minute later Grindar doing something whilst multi-tasking. As the half-orc drops a rope and moves away Haemir walks over to examine it, a perfect figure-8! They weren't the hardest of knots to learn but here's the thing, knots had specific uses and both of the Sentinels were bang on. Grindar's prevented the rope from running out, essentially a 'stopper' and 'Lil's 'tucked em away quite nicely'. He feels like apologising for covering everyone with brain-matter as his mind explodes, unable to think he says:
"Then of course there's the small issue - I haven't taught either of ye those knots yet"! This was getting freaky-deaky! He drops the rope and gives the pair a look like he's just figured out they're witches. One beady eye - before shaking it off and mumbling something about going senile, he turns to walk away and stops suddenly. The thing he needed to remind himself was (with this many people on a small vessel) you literally couldn't walk anywhere - never mind 'away'!

(Ref - do we need all this crew now everyone seems to know what they're doing?)

When Duncan mentions the charts Haemir is taken aback. He glimpses around the party. As far as he knew if you tried to pin the plains down on parchment they literally moved around! He didn't want to be responsible for that anymore than the messy wife-transporting-business. Was it just a fable? He wasn't sure he wanted to find out.

"Just a small footnote but the bond we gave was for three years ago n' that's up anyday now"!? Plus technically they hadn't agreed to rebuild Rattledam it was more to facilitate the duke reigning in the grasslands, the Sentinels (not that they used that name back then) had decided that rebuilding Rattledam was the first step of that path. But then he chooses not to speak because the pact was personal and who knows what that meant to each individual. Not that he disagreed - in fact he was quite eager to see how New Rattledam had grown or changed, he just didn't want to face breaking his word.
"To the business of where we go... Not heard from many of ye, but since Duncan has only just now mentioned the distances it feels more sensible t'goto Rattledam. Would ye forgive me Grindar if I changed my vote? Considering we don't even know where Zaran is n' it's possibly weeks away"?! He chews on his lip for a few seconds. "Maybe one o'th'druids could fey-realm-walk you to Zaran quickly"?

Wherever the party decides to go, Before they depart Haemir buys enough dry-rations to (nearly) fill up his bag of holding (estimating it gives the crew and Sentinels an extra two weeks of dry rations).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+23=32 ;
Friday January 15th, 2021 3:45:54 PM
Sol is glad to have the ring, and even puts it on, despite it being a bit too wide for his finger. He happily tries to figure out what the Compass does as well, again using Identify. ((OoC: 32 on Spellcraft to figure out what the Compass actually does and how to use it))

He will also put funds in, if needed (though it seems the part gold was covering the costs of food and the like.)

He helps wherever possible on the boat, when it turns to destination he will speak;

"I also believe we should head to New Rattledam, by way of Zaran City... perhaps in Zaran City we can start up some sort of trade network to help support New Rattledam, or collect some supplies to help. Or even better pick up a scroll of Sending so we can communicate with those at New Rattledam easily."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Friday January 15th, 2021 4:05:37 PM
"Yes Grindar, we can hunt along the way to supplement the food. Though it is best to take enough food just in case we enter an area where the game is scarce. My guess is food is better than coin for bartering out in the plains."

Upon hearing that the rings are magical, he is a bit surprised that Virgil who gave them the rings was unaware. Thorondir slips the ring onto his finger.

"A bit of magic to help sail the ship is happily accepted. Always a good idea to know what you are given before it is used."

Aewen spends her time circling above the ship, with an occasional break to get a prairie swallow or other small game.

Upon hearing the discussion of destinations, Thorondir says:
"I will go where ever you decide. Though Grindar's request is important, and we should find a way for him to fix his father's axe."

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday January 15th, 2021 9:40:38 PM
The movement of the land in the Southern Continent was no story, no sir. They're not constantly shifting though, they only moved during what locals call a Great Migration and when one happens you will know.

"If worst comes to worst, I can make a bunch'a food and water with Domi's magic. It ain't tasty so we shouldn't rely on it, but so long as I'm alive we ain't gonna starve." 'Lil ain't following the whole "side of the mountain" thing, so she just lets Captain Haemir worry about it.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday January 15th, 2021 11:52:13 PM
Caelwyn also has no opinion about which direction they try, but is in favor of checking out Zaran city. "There are some things I was hoping to purchase there, and it might be helpful for us to see what's available that could benefit New Rattledam."

DM Steve -- Crew Selection
Saturday January 16th, 2021 3:29:15 PM
Answers to questions asked:

Q: Do we need all this crew now everyone seems to know what they're doing?
A: Probably not. You will need four to take care of the boat and move it from one place to a nearby place if the Sentinels need to be doing something else. A crew of eight would be needed to man it 24 hours a day for long distances if the Sentinels were not planning on helping out.

Q: When Donald mentions the charts Haemir is taken aback. He glimpses around the party. As far as he knew if you tried to pin the plains down on parchment they literally moved around!
A: Donald's chart is crude, but likely close enough to be useful. Here's hoping that the Plains do not actually move.

Q: "Just a small footnote but the bond we gave was for three years ago n' that's up anyday now"!?
A: In three parts --
1. When swearing the oaths to the Duke, everyone invoked their favored higher power. That may or may not mean something to each of the original Sentinels.
2. Intelligence check DC:10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Your charter. For his part of the contract, the Duke promised you passage, room and board once you arrive, a druidwood boat, and unspecified compensation dependent on your success.}
3. Know Religion DC:12 Highlight to display spoiler: {The magic to enforce your promises lasted a year. The Oathbound who would have renewed the vow annually did not make it to the Sargrass.}

Q: "Fey-walking"
A: You have not seen the creatures that do that in years.

Q: Sol happily tries to figure out what the Compass does as well, again using Identify. ((OoC: 32 on Spellcraft to figure out what the Compass actually does and how to use it))
A: This crystal always points to the nearest sizeable amount of druidwood. The nearest of the boats, for instance. If you try it out with the skiff in the museum, you have to be much closer to the skiff than to a boat for it to indicate the skiff. When the monks attuned this crystal to point to druid wood, they used an older magic item, some of which remains. No more than once a day, it will heal humanoid creatures (of all subtypes) within 50’, restoring 2d6 points plus one point per Level/Hit Die of the creature. Random activation occurs (1 in 10) when a humanoid is rendered unconscious within 50’ of the crystal. (Fate item, no value in the Catacombs)

The value of each of the rings received from Maab via Virgil is 2500 gp.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20+10=23 ;
Monday January 18th, 2021 11:03:57 AM

Whichever destination is decided on, Akuno is onboard with the plan. She buys some bolts of whatever fabric she can get ahold of before the trip. There's going to be some downtime, and she maybe might try her hand at sewing. She wants to start simple, so she finds Thorondir and sly watches him as stealthily as she can.

Her mission? Observe his feet. Does he wear socks? Does he have those weird footpad things? Its hard to say, and she wouldn't be caught dead asking about Druid feet.

Akuno Stealth: 23

DM shane
Monday January 18th, 2021 7:16:57 PM
OOC: Hello all. we are about to start on the boat adventures, from what I've read we are planning on heading to Zaran City first? I would say that the boat leaves soon, but since you guys are the ship masters, it'll leave when you guys are ready. The crew of 8 is composed of rough and ready salty sailors tattoos, missing teeth, maybe an eye patch and lots of scars. Donald seems at home around them and the sailors give him props, so you don't think there will be any attempted mutiny on the voyage. it seems that Steve has answered most of your questions so lets get started!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Monday January 18th, 2021 7:41:38 PM
Thorondir lands on the deck as an eagle and his shapes shifts into his eleven self. It is a quick transformation, but his taloned feet shift into elven feet with a pair of buckskin boots. He stretches and says “ it is always strange to shift back into an elf, I’m starting to feel more at home as an eagle than elf. I wonder if someday I won’t be able to change back to an elf, living the rest of my days as an eagle with Aewen. I guess that would be nice.”

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday January 18th, 2021 9:59:59 PM
'Lil chimes in on the whole map thing.

It ain't possible to map the whole Southern Continent cause it moves every few years, but it moves in chunks. Sometimes those chunks get rotated when they move, but they don't get mixed up too much. Hook City ain't never got cut in half during a migration, for example.

Likewise the Sargrass itself mostly stays the same: big bunches of grass with dangerous crystal mountains cutting it in half. The path to Zaran City will almost certainly change during a migration since it's in a different chunk. Right now though, if we figure out the way there that way will more or less work until there's a migration

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday January 18th, 2021 10:39:49 PM
Caelwyn stands at the prow of this ship, thinking on how different this voyage will likely be from their last one. The sensation of hovering over the grass will be a unique experience. He closes his eyes and murmurs a prayer to Domi, asking for guidance and safety on their voyage. Then he moves back to join the others.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+9=26 ;
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 9:45:46 AM
"Caelwyn, Thorondir n' Akuno have said they were ok whatever we go.
'Lil prefered Rattledam n' I also opted for it too, personally I'd rather check on my own back yard afore I go exploring fer a couple of months. Sol n' Grindar chose Zaran, so that's two for each n' a bunch o'abstains.

Here's a thing, I didn't realise till I spoke with Duncan but Zaran is a month away. Plus we only a rough idea o' th'area, so it could take a week hunting her down. The magic to enforce our promise lasted a year. The Oathbound who would have renewed the vow unfortunately didn't make it t'th'Sargrass, but never-th'-less Rattledam is about five-t'-six days away n' we know exactly where she is n' I'd kinda like to check on em, it's been a few years after all. But I'll not object wherever, I'm just making sure we still want Zaran! The easiest resolve is is t'ask one or two 'abstainers' n' that's where we go"...
---

(Know Religion:26).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 11:06:15 AM
“I’ll go where Grindar wants, unless he changes his mind.” Thorondir states

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 11:18:43 AM
Sol nods at Haemir's words.

"You make a good point... I did say we should go to Zaran City first, but perhaps I was too hasty... going to Rattledam may be the best option, given that we will have to search for Zaran City... but, ultimately I believe the decision is yours, Haemir."

DM shane
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 8:22:09 PM
Donald Agrees with the Sentinels.
Eye, The Sargrass does move, but the pilots and captains have learned to account for it. whenever a caravan gets to a center of civilization, they get with the dockmaster and update the master map, then if you got the gold, you can have your pilot log updated magically to the new standard. if'n you are poor like me you draw it in by hand, setting on a bench in the Dockmasters office. it's a false economy though. sometimes the sargrass moves a dozen times a year, sometimes only once. you wind up going through book after book, and books ain't cheap. I'm hoping that one day all the positions of the sargrass will be recorded, then you'll just have a set of books, the Dockmaster will post on a sign what book is currently being used and I wont have to set on that uncomfortable bench any more. but that's a long way away. I would be prudent to go to Rattledam, update the charts and then on to Zaran City.

Thorondir waxes melancholy over the difference and desire between a ground-based vs an aerial based creature.

'Lil slaps some knowledge down about the movement of the Sargrass, and is reinforced by Donald as to how those of work the Sargrass deal with it.

Caelwyn wonders how different the sargrass will be from water to sail upon.

Haemir Takes the Group consensus Rattledam or Zaran City...

Sol changes his vote to Rattledam, but ultimately he defers to Haemir.

last-minute supplies are laid in, last-minute checks are made. the hustle and bustle of a ship preparing to sail. organized chaos and ordered bedlam.
nobody notices immediately but a Halfling that almost glows with the power of holy light is standing on deck speaking with Donald.
Donald defers to the wee humanoid and points him toward where the group is standing.
The Halfling makes his way toward the group, in his passing the air seems subtly cleaner, people's heads come up a bit more, and smiles tend to pass around easier.
Grindar is setting with his back to the goings on, and does not notice the Halflings approach.

Mystery Halfling Hello, Grindar, my old friend, I see you've made friends here in the Sargrass

Grindars head whips around and in an instant, he is up and has wrapped the tiny person in a very big hug. Ha Ha. Succotash! What in Domi's name are you doing here? Guys! this is Succotash Slenderstick...he rescued my village back when I was but a lad, he healed my dad and is the reason I started the adventures life. .

the tiny halfling meets everyone, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries.
once introductions are in order he gets down to business.
Grindar, your mother and father have become very sick, they need you back home to help manage the farm until they recover. or manage the estate should they pass. I do not know how long it will take. .

Grindarlooks crestfallen, I'm sorry guys, but family calls and I am needed I must go.

he packs his stuff up and following the halfling, disappears into the glowing portal the Halfing conjures.

DM Shane: Jeremy had some personal issues he needs to work on so he has elected to quit this game for a while. please wish him good luck and good fortune going forward.

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 9:03:36 PM
'Lil's saddened by Grindar's exit, but if someone showed up saying her Ma had fallen sick she'd be taking off quick too.

She was real big on gettin' to Rattledam just a bit ago, but her dudes talked her into Zaran City. She don't see much point of stopping by Rattledam on the way, and figures folks would just wanna give them more stuff to do. She changes her vote to Zaran City.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 11:00:24 PM
Caelwyn has come to respect the big half-orc, and has somewhat overcome his natural mistrust of orcs in general. He understands why Grindar needs to go, however. "Domi's blessing on you and your family, Grindar. May you return to join us soon, if it is his will! Safe travels."

Caelwyn is interested in Zaran City, although if the group thinks Rattledam is the place to go he is alright with that as well.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 5:04:52 AM
"I hope yer family's ok n' ye come back to us when ye can Grindar"! Haemir says.
Fand looks upset too, remembering when she first saw the half-orc in a cage.

They watch the pair leave and marvel at the portal, after a few moments of silence he mumbles:
"Not my choice but Zaran it is then"...

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 1:06:15 PM

"Zaran." Akuno says it outloud, to confirm it to her memory. What a strange name it was. Strange, but boring. "They should really change it up, go by "Magical Floating Fortress Zaran!", or something like that. Its no wonder so few people come out here. Bugs aside, that is. And murder plants aside. And lack of food and water. And the inhospitable heat. And a crazy druid on the loose. And grassfolk hillbillies with no fashion sense and backwards thinking. And.. well, you get the point."

Regarding Grindars departure, Akuno takes it with some amount of stoicism. She liked the orc, and hoped he would stay, but she also had left people behind herself. Goodbyes could be made harder for the leaver than the left.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 7:13:22 PM
Sol looks saddened when Grindar goes, and even embraces the Half-orc in a brief brotherly hug.

"I will miss you my friend, I hope we will meet again."

When discussing the direction to go in, Sol has already cast his vote in favour of Rattledam, however if they are going to Zaran City, he will settle in for the long haul. During the beginning part of the journey he will put on his ring and help out around the ship as much as he can.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 8:57:31 PM
As Grindar walks into the glowing portal and the portal closes, a sad look comes across Thorondir’s face.
“I did not expect to grow close to a half orc, now I know he has changed me. I suppose I can’t follow him after all, I’ll go wherever you decide.”

Thorondir sits quietly while Aewen flies down to try and cheer him.

'Lil - (Carl) - 29/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 9:38:50 PM
"Don't call them hillbillies, dude," says 'Lil, lightly chastising her friend.

DM shane
Thursday January 21st, 2021 1:24:05 AM
'Lil" lets it be known she's for Zaran City. she says goodbye to her friend, but knows she would do the same if the roles were reversed. she chides Akuno for calling the people Hillbillies.

Caelwyn surprises himself by having grown attached to the orc, he wishes him well. the sense of adventure calls however and it's calling him to Zaran City.

Haemir Bids his friend goodbye, and feels the big half-orcs absence as soon as the portal fades. it even affects his Mccaw.

Akuno lists the sins of this continent and covers her melancholy with Stoicism. Her choice of names for the city speaks of other world and strange angularly drawn people.

"Sol" gives the big ranger a goodbye hug and wishes him well on his trip home. he's easy as far as destinations go, Zaran City is fine with him.

Thorondir is affected by the Rangers departure more than he thought he would be. Ideas for the future that has passed though his mind, now lay in waste, now that a major part of them is gone.

Donald addresses [/b]Akuno[/b] Mistress these folk cannot be hillbillies, there are no hills here. we call them lowlanders. he grins. Looks like we are heading to Zaran City then. good, if it's moved and we are the first to survey it, it pays a fair bit of gold. I'll get us underway. .

the one difference between ocean and grass transport is that instead of using tugs, men with ropes basically drag the boat out away from the docks. then the sails are unfurled and opened into the wind. she catches the wind sharply and jerks like a thing alive as she surges into the grass. Make a DC7 dex check or lose your balance and trip from the acceleration.

travel on the grass is bit different than travel on the ocean. for one the "waves" are a lot gentler, and instead of the hiss of the prow cutting through the water, there is the susurrus of the grass dragging against the hull. it's odd that a board can float on grass, but float she does and as she takes to the wind the captain judges that she can take more, he orders flying sails deployed and he gets a few more knots out of her.
as the men work that start singing a sailor's ditty.

bring me a bottle or two me lad
bring me a bottle or four
for the company fine of women and wine
are what I'm looking for.

Bring my trusty old knife me lad
bring my shield of clan gun,
for the women and wine aint' coming for free
and there is plenty of work to be done.

there's plenty of folk hereabouts me lad
who's bellies and wallets are fat
they are driven in coach cars
smoke expensive cigars
and have men to take care of their hat.

the don't give a damn about us poor hatless fools
though out in the gutter we sit
but the thing about bellies and purses me lad
is that both are well easy to slit.

so bring me a bottle or two me lad
bring me a bottle or four
shake the dust off me cloak
bring me my best smokes
and leave all your regrets at the door.

so make sure that your ole knife is sharp me lad
make sure your spell powders are dry,
for the world is awash in fools, blood, and gold
and all men are just waiting to die

these sailors have some really morally reprehensible songs they like to sing.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+3=13 ; d20+3=22 ;
Thursday January 21st, 2021 7:24:05 PM
([i]Dex check:13[i]) Haemir braces himself as the Maiden takes off.
It was a new day, a fresh start and the breeze felt good in his hair.
He grins at the morally reprehensible song, he'd sung a few of those in his day.

DM shane
Friday January 22nd, 2021 12:27:24 AM
OOC; Only one post? eh...okay

Another difference between ocean travel and sargrass travel is that the ships crossing the Platic are fairly well apportioned, the ships have quite a bit of refinement, this ship does not. The rails and prow are simply blocked off wood, the scuppers chiseled out from the raw wood, the wheelhouse is nonexistent and the rudder is a simple wood beam that must be handled by main force. Stil the sailors know how to work their craft and get the most out of the ship.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d20+2=21 ;
Friday January 22nd, 2021 3:48:57 PM
Well geez. I typed a whole post out yesterday and evidently didn't hit submit.

***

'Lil gets her sea...well, grass legs quickly. In no time she's walking around like she owns the place. Does she own part'a this place? She still ain't sure. Doesn't matter. What matters is that this girl can get around on the boat just fine (dex 21).

With the ring helping her out, 'Lil starts learning all she can. With weeks of voyage in front of them, she ain't got much else to do. "At least we ain't gonna get attacked by fish men again, right dudes?"

Every now and then it dawns on her that she's on a magic boat sailing on grass and she's gotta stop and process it before moving on.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+4=13 ;
Friday January 22nd, 2021 7:21:46 PM
Thorondir keeps his balance as the ship moves, swaying with the motion. Aewen hangs onto the eagle's nest when she is not circling the ship from above.

He doesn't sense there is much for him to do, except to learn how to sail. He puts all his effort into that.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:36/36 d20+10=15 ;
Friday January 22nd, 2021 10:40:01 PM
Haemir shivers at the mention of the fish men, remembering the sentinels first ever fight here...
It started with Haemir waking up with some scabby-faced-fishbrain's trident buried in his stomach.
"Yeah not the best of ways to wake up"... shaking the thought away he grins.

"Strikes me this lot may be a bit noisy when we next meet the Manfri".
---

(Sailing:15 - he joins in, mixing captain, teaching and helping out).

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday January 22nd, 2021 11:41:12 PM
Caelwyn smiles at Lil's comment. "No fish men perhaps, but we know there are certainly dangers enough on this grassland...who knows what we may encounter?"

He enjoys the feeling of "sailing" on the ship immensely. He was never much of a sailor himself, but the exhilaration of speed and the wind in his face is an exciting change.

DM shane
Monday January 25th, 2021 12:28:33 AM
it's cooler up here, above the grass, yes the sun is hot, but the oppressive humidity of the deep grass is absent and while the wind sucks the water from your body, it does make for cooler running than travel through the grass.

shortly after noon, the man in the crows' nest calls out, Movement off the Port bow, 15 degrees to port.
. This means that the man in the rigging has spotted some movement and if the prow of the ship is 0 and the rear of the ship is 180 then the movement is just a little ways left of the centerline of the ship.

If you move to the front port section of the ship you may make a DC 15 perception roll to see what the lookout sees.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:41/41 d20+1=5 ;
Monday January 25th, 2021 12:57:10 PM
Well he'd seen a cheeky shark leap outta the sea and bite 'Dart 'Two-Finger' Abram's ear off once, mind you he always fished off the same spot every day, but could that sort of shenanigans happen here?
'Ye gads yes'! he quickly concludes and further realizes how daft he'd feel if they crashed into something sleeping and tries to look (Perception:5).
"There's too much mast n' sail in th'way, Fand"... He stops as she flies towards the area and turns to the crew.
"Noise to the minimum men, slow Her slightly n' steer another 5'degrees starboard" he says quieter before muttering something and 'finger-tutting'.

If there are any sentinels below deck he sends a shipmate to quietly wake them as quickly and quietly as possible.
---

(Casts Bloodwitch Lore).

[OOC: Found a handly DIRECTIONS link for quick reference].

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=27 ; d20+10=13 ;
Monday January 25th, 2021 7:49:11 PM
Thorondir sits in the eagle's nest with Aewen and looks when the crew member mentions motion.

Perception Thorondir 27
Perception Aewen 13

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells d20+9=17 ;
Monday January 25th, 2021 9:18:22 PM
Perception 17 - pass

'Lil ain't one to be caught sleeping in the middle of the day, no sir. She leans her head around the mast and sail to get a look at what that guy saw.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=15 ;
Monday January 25th, 2021 11:11:15 PM
Caelwyn is on deck and alert, scanning the horizon as he enjoys the wind on his face. He too leans forward to see what has been spotted ahead, readying his longbow as he does just in case.

Perception 15

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20=15 ; d20=10 ;
Monday January 25th, 2021 11:47:45 PM

Akuno smiles at the subtle correction. Hill people. Perfect!

She is in for a treat she wasn't expecting when the singing and shanties begin. For someone who tries so hard to be proper, something about to bawdy men singing songs of love and travel and cutthroat wealth really inspires her.

For a day or so, she's humming it all as she skips about her business. Perhaps its her small stature, but she moves about the deck easily. Sometimes she skips about on all fours if needed, but she seems to like the constant motion.

Looking for things though, she does a terrible job of that. Perc: 10.

DM shane
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 4:09:45 AM
Haemir gives an order to the bridge crew. the men look at him then look at Donald. He frowns then Asks. Do you wish to parley with the anomaly sir? looks to be 5 of them, and they are moving quite fast. I don't know what it is. but I do know that most things out here are not friendly, I would rather the ship remain on course and the men rig to repel boarders sir.

Thorondir sees something moving in the grass, 5 tracks. moving quite fast. but shorter than the grass, which is over 10ft tall.

"Lil" sees the same thing.

As does Caelwyn but with a readied action should things turn unruly.

Most ships get a cat before too long, they are kind of a ship's good luck symbol and they help keep the rodent population under control. it seems that everyone on the crew has fallen in love with Akuo and where ever she goes smiles and scratches are plentiful should she allow them.

looks like the 5 anomalies are about 3 rounds from reaching the boat. you need to figure out how you intend to respond before they get to the boat.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 12:21:43 PM
Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

"Ok Domi. May be getting ahead of myself here, but just in case I end up needing it I hope you'll help me with yer grace and whatnot." She casts bless on as many folks what can get within 50' of her, which should be just about everyone.

***

Each ally gains a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and on saving throws against fear effects. Duration is five minutes.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 1:34:51 PM
"They should slow down when approaching strangers in the grass, it is common knowledge to announce yourself and come slowly. Perhaps they need help doing so."

Thorondir casts entangle just in front of the approaching strangers, so that it captures them all if possible.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 4:47:14 PM
So far Haemir hadn't seen anything indicating the ship steered any differently than a normal boat - which took a second or two (as long as it wasn't major).
"I certainly don't intend parlaying - hence th'adjustment away from them. Putting them on our port side stops them from attacking us on both sides a'once - if tha's how this ends up going. Also it stops us plowing in to what may not be an enemy because we think we have right o'way"!

He says something in Draconic!? and moves his fingers - a black mist raises from his hand and floats to where it rests. It almost looks like someone is stood behind him with only their hand visible on his shoulder.
If it wasn't smoke...

"Prepare to prevent frothy urchin-snouted flirt-gill's from boarding us" he yells brandishing a claw-shaped morningstar, "If that's what it comes too, meanwhile we won't be plowing through them. So Duncan steer her to one side"! If in the 1% chance they were grass-eating livestock or giant cuddly Fey he didn't wanna smash a boat in to one of their skulls.
"Only attack if they try something - if they don't hold yer hand". Jeez Duncan was salty.

Fand continues to fly towards 'them' (80 ft/rd staying about 60' above the grass and slightly off to one side).

---
(Q: how fast are we/they travelling - ft/round please?[i])

([i]Haemir locks 'arcane mark' & his (BW cantrip version of) 'dancing lights' out for the day and Coalesce Spells Spectral Hand).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 6:05:57 PM
Sol comes back up from below decks having gone down there to check the bump on his head he got falling over after the acceleration started, and looks around, seeing Lil cast Bless and Thorondir cast Entangle he prepares himself, but casting Mage Armour on himself.

"Are we expecting some enemies to attack us? Or just being wary?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 10:52:21 PM

Akuno frowns, doing a good bit of grumbling to keep up with the sailors. However, inside she was a bit giddy. This time! This time she would show the others she was ready to contribute!

"To whomever has the wand of mage armor, I require a magical booping!" For her own part, she keeps her unseen servant close, and activates her boots of levitation after making sure she's got plenty of sail, rigging, and mast to hold on to.

Away on a sea of Green.

DM shane d20+11=14 ; d20+11=13 ; d20+11=19 ; d20+11=13 ; d20+11=29 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 2:23:11 AM
apologies to all. this encouter is taking place after you have been on the boat for a week. I thought that I made that apparent in the color text but it seems I have not. I was a bit too subtle. that isn't like me, but you see I've been sick. ;-)

The crew consists of
Donald- XO, competent but a bit rough. not above thumping a head to get things done.
Thomas ships pilot. smart, educated, but also a bit rough. cusses like a sailor.
Randy Sailing master/ships carpenter. older, salty, quiet, has a sneaky sense of humor.
Bob ships surgeon/cook. called bones by the crew, good with a knife, really outgoing guy, totally unaffected by gore. but runs a clean kitchen and operating room.
Lance Chief Boatswain. decent guy knows rope like you would not believe. Has lots of stories and tells them well. well-spoken in general.
Padre ABS Bosuns mate. loves to talk, good at it. can climb rigging like a monkey
Mark ABS carpenters apprentice. big-bearded, lots of scars, does not drink on the boat.
Lucas ABS. the kid. still a really good sailor.
Tim ABS/Ships Marine. good sailor, retired Mailed Fist mercenary, bloody-minded, works all conversations back around to some form of combat. really talented at doing it though...

Donald looks at Haemir, looks at the approaching bogies then looks at the heading. a grin crosses his face then a snarl as he turns to the men and starts shouting.
YOU HEARD THE MAN, 5 DEGREES STARBOARD, BUT DONT' USE THE RUDDER, TAKE DOWN THE STARBOARD FLYING SAIL, THEN TRIM DOWN THE PORT AS WE REACH THE HEADING. THOMAS OPEN UP THE WEAPONS LOCKER AND GET EVERYBODY ARMED. RANDY, SET OUT THE FIREFIGHTING BUCKETS YOU BOB ARE ON DAMAGE CONTROL. PITCH IN WHERE YOU CAN, BUT DONT' LET THE SHIP BURN DOWN. TIM GET EVERYONE ORDERD FOR BATTLE.
(you were doing about 45" but with the flying sails taken down you are down to about 30" or thereabouts sails probably got you 10" but tacking like you are now probably cost you 5" )

"Lil" gives everyone the blessing of her god. (Unless you don't want it of course, then you are welcome to go to the extreme ends of the ship to avoid it. )

Thorondir casts his spell. Tacking into the wind like they are, seems to bunch the bogies up a bit more, you spell covers the lot of them, three sets of movement quit moving while the other two circle back around to the ones entangled. (3 rounds has now been pushed back indefinitely. )

Sol comes up from below decks and casts mage armor on himself. he don't know what's happening but it smells like folk are rigging for battle. best to be prepared.

Caelwyn holds his shot, 350 yards is a bit much for pin point accuracy.

Akuno flies up into the rigging, but i think she might be waiting for mage armor first though..

in due time the weapons locker is unlocked, pikes halberds, spears swords and crossbows are distributed to any who needs them. Buckets of sand are positioned around the ship from below. Randy and Bob are quick to tell everyone that if a fire starts, throw sand on it and put it out. Tim, Lance, Padre and Tim come back up on deck and start assembling what looks to be a Ballesta, looks like it's going to be mounted on a gimble on the bridge railing.
Tim peels off once they get started on the Ballesta, and starts positioning men and going over who does what. he looks over to the party, thinks for a minute then walks over. he takes his hat off as he does, then salutes, looks embarrassed for doing so, blushes a bit, clears his throat, and then speaks.

Pardon, but it seems to me that you all may be contemplating engaging the enemy if that is what this group turns out to be? If I knew your various strengths I might be able to position you in the lineup where you can do the most good.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=13 ; d20+10=23 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 5:21:07 PM
Thorondir (as an eagle) and Aewen launch from the eagle's nest and fly high to get an overhead look at the entangled area, trying to determine what sort of creatures they are dealing with. The wind whistles over their wings as they move as fast as they can during the round. (fly up and towards the entangled area, mostly gaining height).

Perception Thorondir 13
Perception Aewen 23

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:41/41 d20+14=15 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 6:41:50 PM
Haemir takes out the wand and tries it on himself to no avail, then passes it to Akuno.
---

(use magic device:15 - fails but not enough to suffer a mishap).

(Note to ref: technically Donald is the first mate, unless there's been a mutiny) ;-)
using magical devices outside of combat, you are allowed to take 10 if you wish.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 7:13:51 PM
Sol will nods.

"I am a wizard. So put me where you think I will do the most good. I currently have Light, Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Mending, Mage Armour which I have cast on myself already, Magic Missile, twice, Unseen Servant, Charm Person, Scorching Ray twice, Bull’s Strength and Hold Person twice prepared."

After no doubt recieving a somewhat blank look he will try to be clearer.

"I am prepared for a degree of ranged combat. Where do you think I will be best positioned?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20+13=31 ; d20+13=19 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 9:25:01 PM

Akuno winces as Haemir fails it. Maybe it wasn't enough for a mishap, but she could tell he just made the wand cranky. She casts guidance before each try. (Nat 1's that are fails lock you out of the item for 24 hours.)

She manages to pull it off, both for her and Haemir. "I'll pass it back after this is all over."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 9:30:47 PM
"Keep it.. It clearly doesn't like me"!

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 10:05:37 PM
Caelwyn volunteers himself and his weapons where needed. "I can fight from range and in close combat, tell me where you think I would do best! Fighting from a ship is not my forte..."

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday January 28th, 2021 12:28:33 AM
'Lil frowns a bit. "Well, I used to stand behind Grindar and stab folks and beasties what needed stabbing, but he ain't here no more." She pulls out Maya, her magic long spear. "I can drop Maya here and pull out Ramona," she motions to the giant hammer on her back with a thumb before continuing, "but I'm better with Maya. Stuff gets too close to me, and Maya ain't no good no more.

"I can also heal and cast a few beneficial spells, but not many. Domi ain't seen fit to elevate me to high priestess. Least not yet..."

She figures if she's fighting something that ain't in the ship yet, being able to stab at range with Maya may work out super well.

DM shane
Thursday January 28th, 2021 2:08:33 AM
OOC: Oh! did not see where Haemir was chosen as Captain, that changes things a bit. Are you really sure you want to be the captain of this ship? it's going to put a crimp in your adventuring away from the ship, and it's going to entail a lot of micromanaging that will slow the game down a bunch. I could just roll daily against your captain skill, and rp any failures you might experience. That does not seem like it would be fun as it singles you out to the exclusion of everyone else. I'm going to pause things for a bit. you really need to think about the consequences of captaining a ship.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Thursday January 28th, 2021 10:13:52 AM
OOC: Well, if we are in pause mode, lets go with this.

Extra stuff? How about we just don't make that a thing. It wasn't at all hinted at previously, and "extra stuff", or invasive scenario needling, is kinda why we lost Grindar. We have a player who wants to steer the boat and make the calls at "sea" using skill checks.

It doesn't HAVE to get any deeper than that, especially in a way that detracts from our main job, being adventurers. You could shift the day to day issues to the personality of the first mate, and from time to time have Haemir either offer correction or guidance based on our choice of who to select. (Which we put -some- thought into.) But we don't need the idea of "consequences" to make this anymore burdensome than it has to be, imo.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Thursday January 28th, 2021 11:19:58 AM
OOC: I agree with Ken, make it simple please. Once a day posting doesn't allow for complexities, otherwise we go through 1 hour in game time during a year for us.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Thursday January 28th, 2021 11:59:55 AM
Thanks for bringing this to our attention! The way I pictured this was... If I may draw upon star trek here? :-) The no.1 runs things (translates to first mate) when Picard runs off on adventures and you never see micro-managing because everyone knows what to do. Also I imagined the no.1 (middle-management) directing the crew on a day-to-day basis (basically doing what he does now). I also totally agree that it's impracticable for me to be rolling every 5 minutes!

Please don't worry I won't be upset handing over captaincy if that helps everything. My concerns are all IC! The thing is - after taking 2.5 years to create this ship, the death of a treant and multiple promises to keep it and the compass safe -- why would we let a bunch of rowdy sailors (we only met last week) who have no oath-bond or loyalty to us - be in charge of what is currently the most sought after and unique ship in the plains!? :-)

However, as I said that is all IC concerns. In the interest of making your life easier and game flow - please ret-con (is that the right word?) things so as to make it all smooth and peachy - No problemo!

PS Just read the other replies - I honestly don't mind OOC - my concern is really IC! Let's just get the game flowing and have fun. I promise there are no ill feelings with Haemir stepping down. :-)

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday January 28th, 2021 12:04:33 PM
Yea, what they said.

DM shane d20+14=20 ; d20+14=22 ; d20+14=23 ;
Friday January 29th, 2021 1:22:32 AM
OOC: Very well then lets go with it. I'll do Star Trek, though I despise it.

Tim listens to the rest of the crew tell him their skills. He puts Sol and Caelwyn up on the quarterdeck so that they have clear vision over the rest of the ship. He tells Caelwyn to protect Sol until they get all the bogies in the "Pocket" and have them engaged then he can drop his bow and join the melee, should he be unengaged. He tells Sol that he doesn't know spellcasting but that he should make himself as much a threat to the bogies as he can, and as much a help to the rest of the crew as he can.

Akuno gets mage armor on herself and Haemir, but here is a tip for you, when out of combat you can "take 10" on a roll. there is a big difference between calmly casting a spell or activating a wand when things are peaceful, versus activating a wand or casting a spell when someone is trying to shove a 3ft sword in your guts.

Tim walks up to "Lil and looks over both Maya and Ramona then gives a long appreciative whistle. Those are some nice weapons you got there he thinks for a second. You know I got half a mind to put you out near the railing when the come up with your hammer, smash their hands, and send them back down to the grass, but I'm probably just indulging in fantasy...you say you are used to filling back rank? we are going to form a battle line around the mainmast. you can support the sailors, they will screen for you so you can use the spear, most of these guys aren't so much fighters as they are brawlers, if I can get them to just concentrate on not getting gutted and let you and me do the killing, we might be able to keep everyone alive.

[b]Thorondir Highlight to display spoiler: { it's strange you see what appears to be little people, only they are hard to make out, when they move they move quickly, but when they stop they just seem to disappear. the ones entangled are moving at a fairly good clip out of the sargrass entanglement, it seems they have slipped the spell and are just dealing with the rough terrain, at about twice the speed of a man walking, the two who did not get caught are invisible, you don't know where they are. they will be out of the entangle this round. }

Tim gives final instructions for the crew including the Sentinels.
Okay if they board us. we are creating a battle line around the mainmast. ranged troops, he points to Sol and Akuno, and Caelwyn don't fire until they have engaged the battle line. I'm going to have the crew fighting defensively, I want them concentrating on us, once they do, let them have it. I want to do a hammer and anvil maneuver on them. the battle line is the anvil, you guys are the hammer.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday January 29th, 2021 11:12:35 AM
'Lil puts a hand on Tim's shoulder and squeezes. Hard. She looks him dead in the eye.

"Tim, you got lots of experience we don't, and I appreciate that, but we ain't part of the crew. I ain't got no doubt we all got a bunch to learn from you, but let me tell you a little thing about adventurers." She leans in close and drops her voice an octave. "We don't take kindly to being treated like soldiers. If we wanted to be soldiers, we would'a become soldiers. My dudes and I ain't green, and this won't be our first fight on a ship. Now, maybe you should go deal with the actual crew. The Sentinels can handle themselves."

Was it harsh? Yea, probably, but they're in potential danger and her and her dudes' position on this ship needs to be understood now. Tim seems like a tough guy. He'll get over it.

***

Rather than being told where to go and what to do by a crew member that I think technically works for us, can we maybe just get a map so we can place ourselves?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=18 ; d20+10=26 ;
Friday January 29th, 2021 12:27:41 PM
Asking Aewen to stay high and keep watch, Thorondir flies down and swoops over the deck squawking and screaming in the noble language of eagles: Highlight to display spoiler: {"They are the small magical folk, two of them are invisible. They have escaped the entangle and are coming fast."}.

With satisfaction at doing a great job scouting, Thorondir then flies upward to rejoin Aewen. He then realizes that with both Bigby and Grindar gone, probably nobody left in the Sentinels is smart enough to understand such a noble language.

Perception Thorondir 18
Perception Aewen 26

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Friday January 29th, 2021 4:17:06 PM
Sol nods, listening to Tim's words.

"I understand, though becoming someone's target is never high on my list of priorities, I suppose I will have to live with it.." he says smirking.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Friday January 29th, 2021 8:49:29 PM
Haemir looks up at Thorondir and shrugs.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Friday January 29th, 2021 8:51:45 PM

Akuno hears Aewen's screeches and sighs. Bigby and Grindar would both be missed. She was suddenly... scared. She talked about wanting adventure and monsters to bag, but this felt more like hostile warfare than adventuring. It was hard to explain, but combat between two intelligent groups was much nastier than a team of adventurers killing a monster. A monster was stupid, it could be baited and taunted. Other people were.. well.. much more cunning. Someone could get hurt.

"Lil', one second please." She starts to walk to her friend, then starts awkwardly floating upwards. "Dogsbreath and dungheaps!", she curses. She stretches her small hand out as far as it will go and boops 'Lil on the forehead. "Protection spell! I manifested it by accident trying to sneak around like a commoner! Best of luck!" She gets a handle on her levitation boots, and scoots upwards 20 feet.

She tightens her gear and readies herself for whatever comes next.

Move: Levitate up 20 feet.
Standard: Cast Blur on Lil. (20% miss chance for enemies. 5 minutes / 50 rounds)

DM shane
Saturday January 30th, 2021 5:55:04 PM
contact in 4 round.

Tim looks taken aback by the venom in 'Lil's tone, then his face clears and he leans forward and whispers to her. Ma'am I'm not trying to treat you as a soldier, but the thing is I've seen a lot of soldiers more experienced and tougher than those sailors behind me, laying on the ground screaming as they bled out and tried to push their guts back into their slit bellies, and I don't want that to happen to these men. you may be the Mistress of Battle, and I'm glad if you are, I'm trying to position you where you can keep these men alive. I'm also trying to get the men bloodied a bit so that they are better able to face the challenges on the Sargrass. if you have a better plan that accomplishes those two goals I'm keen to hear it. you may not be part of the crew but if whatever comes over those rails is hostile, I don't think they are going to care if you aren't part of the crew. so it behooves us to work together. also this ship is tiny, there is not enough room for all of us to do as we wish.

Akuno glides...no..glomps down and casts blur on 'Lil".

Thorondir has to scream out his scouting report. The bogies are moving just slightly slower than you you are flying and you are still 2 rounds out from the boat. the bogies are 4 rounds out

Haemir watches as things develop, his mind planning moves ahead to get his ship through this encounter.

The crew is donning leather armor. Rany and lance are manning the Ballista up on the upper deck with Sol and Caelwyn. Donald, Thomas, Bob, Padre, Mark and Lucas are standing on the port side of rear mast back near the captain's quarters, making a line with the flank anchored at the stairs and hold.

DM shane
Saturday January 30th, 2021 7:09:48 PM

Maiden of the Plains

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday January 31st, 2021 10:30:11 PM
Caelwyn casts his eyes to the sky, praying silently for Domi's aid. He then nocks an arrow onto his longbow and smiles at Sol. "Stand strong, my friend, and let your aim be true! We will triumph this day."

He prepares to lose to the arrow as soon as the enemy is within range.

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/13/14 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 (Active:Mage Armor/Bless) - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Monday February 1st, 2021 7:57:26 AM
Haemir is beginning to wonder if having the crew near the edge may get half of them killed. He looks at them scrambling to put on leather armor and at some of the party in heavy armor. Heck he'd rather stand there himself than have lightly armored, inexperienced crew there acting as a shield!

He takes out a cloth and unrolls it - inside are 20 xbow bolts and he casts Gtr Magic Weapon on it, taking a bolt out he loads his (normal - not hand-bow) xbow and then places the roll on the floor near the majority of crossbow users.
"Help yourselves... Sentinels do we leave them at the front"?
---

Thorondir is in bird form still so we don't understand him no matter how hard he yells right? Is Fand (who went to look a few rounds back) able to report in yet (in common)?

(Ref Q. Is that a house rule? The normal rule for UMD says you can't take a 10).

(Note to party/ref/npc's the bolts act as +2 (also stacks with 'Lil's bless I believe?) - so anyone using them gets +3 to hit and they do d8+2).

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20=3 ;
Monday February 1st, 2021 1:43:58 PM

Akuno is starting to worry along the same lines as Haemir. She was starting to get along with these sailors, and she knew that they enjoyed having her around. In her mind, it was better if the Sentinels protected them, and only gave them enough room to maybe flank or fight defensively one at a time, with as little danger as possible to the sailors.

She's too far away to hear 'Lil and Tim. So instead, she scans the skies. Was that a bird? Her fangs twitch in anticipation.

Perception: 2

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday February 1st, 2021 3:20:08 PM
Now now. There weren't no venom in 'Lil's voice, just some sternness. "I ain't doubting your intentions, Tim." She leaves it there. Ain't no time to sit down and talk it over.

She waves her hand in front of her face when Akuno casts her spell. "How are those varmints gonna know how pretty I am, Akuno?" she asks with faux worry. She's grateful, though. Don't much feel like getting stabbed or worse.

Her dudes and her sufficiently blessed, Maya at the ready, and Akuno's spell making her hard to target, 'Lil's ready. She positions herself behind the line of crewmen, ready to stab past'em or patch them up should she need to.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Monday February 1st, 2021 5:36:16 PM
Seeing Fand flying ahead of him toward the ship, Thorondir hopes the scouting report will be delivered. Thorondir and Aewen fly up above the ship, at a height of about 100 feet and begin to circle.

DM: Highlight to display spoiler: { If Thorondir can see where the invisible creatures are by movement in the grass, he will cast Faerie Fire on them. Readied action: cast Faerie Fire, outlining creatures in the area in a violet glow.}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours) d20+3=19 ; d3=1 ;
Monday February 1st, 2021 6:17:54 PM
Sol smiles at Caelwyn, standing in the centre of the aftcastle with Randy.

"My aim is rarely true unfortunately... but hopefully that will change today..." he smirks ruefully and prepares to cast Ray of Frost on any enemy that gets within range/near to him.

He does frown at the sailors looking to protect the Sentinels, after all aren't Sentinels supposed to be defenders? However he has little knowledge of actual tactics and less of battles on ships, so while he's unsure, he is trusting others know better than he does.

((OoC: 19 to hit the first enemy to get into range of Ray of Frost, range 35 ft, and 1 damage if a 19 hits))

DM shane
Monday February 1st, 2021 8:37:02 PM
3 rounds left till contact. bogies are about 360 ft away from the boat but hidden in tall grass. Fand and Thorondir are visible and are now 60 ft from the boat.

Haemir puts out some better arrows for the ranged folk to use. he also spots some problems with the line as laid out, Call attention to it? or let if pass? Tim may have been working with what he had, he may not be fully apprised of what the Sentinels are capable of.

OOC: whoops!. You are correct, can't take 10 on UMD rolls. You may or may not have been able to understand Thorondir and Fand, Macaws are pretty loud. but I didn't really think that since the cat was already out of the bag it was worth a roll. Meta-communication between players is a given anyway. and he really didn't give you any game-changing data anyway. lets assume that Fand reported with Thorondir. if that's okay with Thorondir.

Caelwyngets ready and calls words of encouragement meant to the rest of the team. Your trained archer's eye thinks that you may be able to get a shot off when they get within 20' or so, after that the lee of the boat will obscure them, and before that the grass obscures them.

Akuno sees the same thing as Haemir but she stands her post and watches the skies.

"Lil takes her friend's blessing with a bit of humor and gets behind the line, but she's now better armored than the men in the front row..

The sailors get organized like they have been drilled in it. but even after getting in line, you can see that they are a bit green, this may well be their first time fighting for their lives rather than just for fun.

Thorondir cast something at the bogies, if you are Thorondir Highlight to display spoiler: {you light one up, but the other 4 continue on unaffected. they were outside the effect of yous spell. }

Sol prepares a spell to hit the creatures speeding towards them.

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 (Active:M-Armr/Bless/S.o.f) - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 4:12:15 PM
Seeing some of the crew still scrambling into their leathers, it didn't feel right. Sure he'd shielded behind Caelwn and Lil but they were tough as nails. With not much time to debate he casts a spell and steps up.
"I think we need to move the crew back. I fear we've seen more combat than them n' I won't shield behind them". Yeah he had to admit they sounded like 'famous-last-words'.

"'Lil, Caelwyn will you stand with me"? He may not be 100% sure what his role was but he knew what it wasn't. He'd never forgive himself if he watched one of the crew killed on the spot. Besides he had to admit standing near Caelwyn made him feel braver?!

(Heamir locks out his 'create water' and 'touch of fatigue' cantrips for the day and Coalesce Spells Shield of Faith on himself).

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 4:14:49 PM
"Anyone got any idea what we're up against?" She's just talking to talk as she looks at the men in front of her. She ain't ever stood behind anyone in cowardice, it's just how she fought and it meant she could stab and heal both. These dudes weren't hardened adventurers and soldiers, though. She couldn't right let them be the front line here. She finds the one who looks like the greenest, scrawniest, whatever, then takes his place.

"Hey, Haemir left some bolts and a crossbow. Pretty sure there's magic on it. I can't aim for squat, so why don't you grab it and help cover us?" She hopes that's not too transparent an effort to relieve him of his front line duty.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 6:08:28 PM
Sol, holding the spell ready, not a major spell, but he dislikes responding with the full force of his arcane might, however he manages to find a moment to open his cloak and allow Corbin to fly out.

"Corbin, do you think you could fly over whatever it is that is approaching as and report back to my and my fellows? It would be useful to know what is advancing on us."

He speaks politely to the bird before giving it space to fly off should it choose to.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 6:12:27 PM
Calling upon his Pearl of Power, Thorondir recalls a spell he has just cast. Moving his talons he casts Faerie Fire again, this time making one of the creatures glow green.

He calls down to his shipmates again, but it is starting to become clear they don't understand the noble language of eagles. Hopefully the Macaw will tell them what he saw.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 10:39:20 PM
Caelwyn notes his position relative to Haemir and Lil. "I will use my bow for a moment, Haemir, and ensure Sol is safe - then I will immediately come assist you in the front line!" He prepares to loose his arrow at the first target he sees.

DM shane
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 1:14:49 AM
At Haemir's words Tim snaps to action, he starts moving the crew to the back row. the crew for their part move back, equal parts relieved and shamed that they will take the back row...well probably a touch more relief than shame.

"Lil offers to trade places with the youngest, you think his name is Lucas, he seems rather overjoyed to be in the back row, and even happier at taking a magic bolt. he scrambles up the rigging until he has good overview and then loads his crossbow.

Sol lets his bird go so that it can do some scouting of its own.

Thorondir lights another one of the bogies up. he Macaw Fand lands on the ship starts jabbering.

AWWWK! looks like 5 or so small elves. they move really fast and disappear when they stand still. Mutated halflings if you ask me. SQUAWK! .

Caelwyn loyal to salt, informs Haemir of his course of action.

Akuno ?

the bogies are 230' away now. coming almost directly into the Port side of the ship. by the time they get here it will directly into the side of the ship. They are running in a loose group in a 25' circle. at least that's what you can see of the rustling grass.

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 8:01:24 AM
Despite the tension Haemir can't help but secretly smile at the graceful way 'Lil suggested the crewman fell back a layer. For all the diplomacy he'd seen here that simple act stood out above all and he felt proud to stand beside her. Taking a page out of her book he moves up and picks someone looking worried or green, "Like 'Lil here says why don't you drop back a layer"? He didn't have 'Lil's grace but standing next to the cleric he smiles and nods: 'thankyou', then tells her, "If you don't have one? I'm going t'cast ye a shield of faith"?!

Seeing the crewman climb a mast with only one bolt he says, "Akuno, do you think one of your invisible servants pass the magical bolts around the crew as and when they need them"?
---

(Heamir locks out his 'Prestidigitation' and 'detect poison' cantrips for the day and Coalesce Spells 'Shield of Faith' on 'Lil who gains a shimmering magical field that grants her a +2 deflection bonus to AC for 5 minutes. If 'Lil tells him she already has one (of objects) he will cast it on Caelwyn of Tim, whichever is near the edge).

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 8:06:08 AM
(OOC. Correcting header).

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 5:09:05 PM

Akuno realizes she's being asked to do something. "I can try! Its a matter of range! They have a 45 foot range!"

If she can be 20ft up, and still within 45ft of the bolts, she'll have her servant help pass them around or even reload extra crossbows if needed.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 19/12/17 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 5:20:03 PM
Blurred and shielded? Shoot, 'Lil's feeling pretty good about her odds all the sudden. She also felt pretty good about there only being 5 of them, but when Fand says they can up and vanish just by standing still she feels a little less steady. Who knows how many could be out there.

"So these things can just be invisible in the grass? Seems we need to give our lookouts some kinda magic that lets'em see stuff what's invisible. Maybe some goggles that can detect life even. Those'd be handy, eh?" She nudges the guy on her left as she talks. She thinks his name is Bob. She keeps talking, a little louder. "Any'a you guys get hurt too bad, drop to the deck and call for me. I can heal most'a you from here." She looks towards the aft, judging if she can get everyone with one channel. "Hey cap, switch with me. Can't quite heal them folks in the back from here."

That'll put her next to Tim. "Hey Tim, I ever introduce you to Maya?" She holds out her spear. "Lass was just a plain looking rod when I found her. Slept with her under my pillow and woke up to this beauty." Maya is, in fact, an exceedingly plain looking longspear. Especially so for a magical one.

Edit: Map

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=25 ;
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 6:00:27 PM
Wiggling his talons, Thorondir casts a spell in the direction of the invaders. The grasses in a semi-circular area (150 foot radius) shrink to about one-third normal size, becoming untangled and less bushy. The affected vegetation appears to have been carefully pruned and trimmed. Thorondir sets the area so that when the creatures get to the ship the ship will be alongside the center of the semicircle. Careful not to shrink the grasses that the ship is riding upon.

Aewen continues to fly above him, looking carefully. She will call to Thorondir in the eagle's tongue should she see anything new.
Perception 25

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 11:04:21 PM
Caelwyn, seeking what Thorondir is aiming to do, aims in the same direction, waiting for his spell to take affect and give him a clearer shot at the creatures.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 11:15:44 PM
Forgot to mention Cast Spell: Diminish plants

DM shane
Thursday February 4th, 2021 1:43:17 AM
Haemir's act of bravery, though copied from "Lil" has an effect on the men, heads come up a bit more, they whisper and nod in his direction. looks like they aren't used to having the captain take the front rank.

Akuno your unseen servant can reach everyone who has a ranged weapon. Though the Ballista cannot use crossbow bolt

Lil talks to Tim. he is just finishing up directing the guys and answering some last min questions. but he turns to you and smiles, Yes, I've heard of magic items that do that. I've always wondered if flour would work as well. unfortunately, I've not any flour on me, and this is the first time I've fought invisible creatures.

He takes the spear, reverently, tests the weight, sights down the shaft, and even tests the edge of the spear with his thumbnail. all in just a few seconds. it's a good spear, looks to be well used, and well-loved. My first weapon was a spear, I like them better than swords for most work. . He hands the spear back to you.

Thorondir gets a sneaky plan together. next round the bogies should pop out in the cleared area, exposed to the tender mercies of anyone on the ship with a ranged attack besides that, it's going to make it harder for them to board the ship. (if you guys survive this you are getting a hero point for that one brother!)

Caelwyn and indeed everyone with a ranged weapon including the Ballistia swings their weapons around to point at the areas.

combat will start on the plains next round.

Haemir (Rich) AC:24/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Thursday February 4th, 2021 9:08:44 AM
Haemir looks surprised when the grass recedes and wonders if Thorondir had anything to do with it!? He looks to the sky and mutters "Nice one brother" then casts a spell. His form shimmers and shifts, now looking like some kind of mutant lizard/monster he raises his crossbow and shouts a rally:
"FOR THE MAIDEN"... Then assumes a ready-to-fire pose (yeah there may have even been an involuntary 'hisssss' somewhere)?!

Fand readies herself - timing it so she can drop into an attacker.
---

(Casts Alter Self assuming 'Lizardfolk' form).

(Note to Carl/'Lil - happy to swap places - move me on the map to wherever + don't forget to amend your AC/header).

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Thursday February 4th, 2021 12:36:47 PM
(Haemir Coalesce Spells two 1st level slots to cast his Alter Self)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Thursday February 4th, 2021 1:52:56 PM
Thorondir flaps his wings and flies to the port side of the ship as the grass shrinks. As soon as he sees the invaders enter the diminished grass, he casts another spell.

Cast: Spike Growth, hopefully when they are about 5-10 feet inside of the diminished plants area. Should be a square about 45' on each side. I want to catch them 5-10 feet inside the area so that they will have spikes if they retreat or continue forward.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday February 4th, 2021 4:02:13 PM
'Lil smiles as she takes the spear back from Tim. "I hear that. Swords always seemed more 'cool' than 'effective' if ya know what I mean." She looks in amazement as the grass recedes. "That is gonna be a useful spell," she half whispers to herself.

She tries to keep her cool when Haemir turns into a monster, but only barely makes it. She chuckles nervously. "Like there aren't enough monsters out there already, we gotta make our own."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Thursday February 4th, 2021 4:58:13 PM
Sol is somewhat taken aback by all this tactical talk and decision making. He is very clearly out of his element, not so much fighting, he can do that well enough. Ish. But more trying to lead others in combat... but he supposed it wasn't up to him, he after all, was not the captain.

He looks to watch Corbin to see if anything happens to his Familiar, and in any case keeps his spell prepared.

DM shane d20+9=24 ; d20+9=10 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+9=19 ; d20+9=10 ; 25d4=63 ; 25d4=74 ; 25d4=52 ; 25d4=64 ; 25d4=57 ; 9d4(1+1+2+4+2+3+4+3+4)=24 9d4(3+2+1+4+1+3+2+1+1)=18 9d4(1+3+1+2+2+1+4+2+2)=18 9d4(1+4+3+1+4+4+4+4+3)=28 9d4(1+4+4+1+1+2+2+2+4)=21
Friday February 5th, 2021 7:35:46 PM
Sol Corbin is just fine, circling 200' above the action, not much can reach him unless they have a bow.

Haemir Turns into a monster and souts to motivate the troops. good thing they were behind you when you did that. some of them might have jumped off.

"Lil" barely keeps from jumping off herself. she's also in the know about spears and monsters.

Thorondir casts his spell,

hmmm...I guess Caelwyn and Akuno were busy.

The bogies burst from the overgrowth onto the lawn. their speed increases dramatically. they are visible. small, a little over 2' maybe 2 and a half ft tall, lightly built, fast and they have the long ears and the slanted eyes of fey,

at speed they hit Thorondir's spiked growth spell, not a one of them notices it and they move across it at speed. spiked growth does 1d4 per 5 ft, the spell covers a 20 sq per caster level. so 100 sq ft. I am going to assume you positioned it to get all of them so 25 x 4 = 100 each of the bogies, if my math is correct take 25x1d4 points of damage. Any other DMs that are playing this game, please check my interpretation of the data. but I think Thorondidr Just got a TPK on these bogies with 2 spells.

it's a 20' square per level he laid it out 45x45 square. the speed that these things move they are going to cross the trap in 1/2 of second. I'm ruling that they cannot stop in time to miss crossing it. so re-roll at 9x1d4

bogie 1 takes 28 hp his body flops lifelessly on to the gound opposite the spiked growth and slides up against the grass on the other side.
bogie 2 takes 18 hp and takes a header into the spiked growth as well.
bogie 3 takes 18 hp tries to put on the breaks but cannot stop before he crosses the trap, he shreds his feet and starts bleeding out on the other side of the trap.
bogie 4 takes 18 hp and goes the same route as 3
bogie 5 takes 21 hp he was with 1 and crosses only to bleed out at the edge of the sargrass on the other side.
they all made it across the spiked growth but not as a cohesive fighting force, but as a bloody and wretched ruin.

a stain of off-color magenta blood and torn bodies now litter the lawn that Thorondir made.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Friday February 5th, 2021 11:54:53 PM
Caelwyn loses an arrow at the creatures...only to watch in disbelief, and a bit of disgust, as Thorondir's spells shred these things into pieces, parts littering the ground. His arrow lands in a dead body with a dull *thump*, completely useless. He glances over at the druid. "By Domi...have I ever mentioned that I'm glad you're on our side, Thorondir?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Saturday February 6th, 2021 12:20:54 AM
OOC: I sent an email, I think the spike growth wasn't calculated correctly.

re-rolled, thanks Kelly.

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Saturday February 6th, 2021 4:45:06 AM
Haemir's lizard trigger finger is itching .. Aiming at the spot where he thinks they will show.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Saturday February 6th, 2021 10:15:41 AM
Flying at top speed towards where a couple of the invaders made it to through the spikes, when he is within 40 feet he wiggles his talons and casts a spell.

Cast: Stabilize on one of the creatures bleeding out.

DM shane
Saturday February 6th, 2021 3:23:50 PM
Guys, I feel I need to apologize a bit. this encounter just goes to show that everything in this world has its foil. if you haven't figured out what the bogies were roll DC 21 dungeoneering . DC 19 Plaines, DC 23 nature, to Highlight to display spoiler: {they were Quicklings}. I had hoped to give you a good tight corners fight on the deck of the ship. but the set up that Thorondir put together was just too perfect to nerf for the fight.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Saturday February 6th, 2021 6:50:32 PM

Akuno watches the monsters fall down in little blossoms of red all over Thorndirs plants. Her pre-combat buzz overflows. "Yikes! Well done, Murder Bird!" Stupid monsters. She lands slowly on the deck, then peeks over the side of the ship. "Um, hello!" she shouts. "That'll teach you to mess with us!"

If one of them so much as makes a gurgling noise, a terrified and startled Akuno will throw glitter magic all over it.

Held action: Cast Glitterdust. Will DC 17 vs blinding. No save vs the shiny pretty dusty bits that prevent invisibility.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Saturday February 6th, 2021 7:39:15 PM
"Well," starts 'Lil. "Guess we know who wins the most valuable combatant trophy this time around."

She looks at the corpses but ain't never seen anything like'em before (no knowledge skills, meaning I'm capped at a DC of 10). "ANY OF YOU KNOW WHAT THOSE THINGS ARE?" she asks loudly.

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Sunday February 7th, 2021 4:55:16 AM
It's way too quiet so Haemir looks over the edge with Akuno. Seeing all the mess down there he whistles and dismisses his lizard form before turning back around...

"Murder bird"?! He chuckles, well it did have a good ring to it.

[OOC - no need for an apology - it's all been good fun! Cudos to Kelly).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Sunday February 7th, 2021 10:39:46 AM
Sol looks confused at the spells and watching them work.

"Thorondir! You are going to HAVE to show me how to do that!" He calls after his compatriot.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Sunday February 7th, 2021 11:46:25 AM
Thorondir lands on the ship and shifts back into his elven form. He shakes his head and says:

"I tried to slow them with an entangle, but it didn't work. Fearing they would attack the Maiden, oh and you folks as well, I set up a spike trap to slow them. I did not expect them to continue through it until their death. They were much faster than anything I have seen before. I did stabilize one of them, but I don't know if he lives or not. I do not have any ability to heal them at this time. I could also not carry him to the ship as the ship was still moving too fast for me to carry him and catch the ship. They did appear to be attacking us didn't they?"

He looks around at the Sentinels

"What should we do?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Sunday February 7th, 2021 11:12:38 PM

Akuno points to the one that was stabilized, and floats near enough for as many unseen servants as necessary to carry it back to the ship. "Gently." She adds, as an afterthought.

DM shane
Monday February 8th, 2021 4:55:24 PM
Luckily for you guys it's SOP for ships crews to stop and look for loot after a battle. the Sailors are already at the sails waiting for [Haemir[/b]'s command. If he gives the command, the unseen servants can retrieve the stabilized bogie, otherwise you sail out of reach.

Thorodir frets over whether or not he did the right thing. but that question will be answered by the survivor, the sailors have their opinions though, it boils down to this. "If they was needin' help and all. they would have lit a fire or waved their underwater in the air or something. Nah they was tracking on us like shark to a wounded fish. "

but he gets high praise and even a new nickname from the Sentinals.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d8+5=13 ;
Monday February 8th, 2021 6:52:41 PM
"So, can we question it? Does it talk or know our language or anything?" She looks around. "And no one answered my question about what these things are. No one knows?"

'Lil's ready to cast a CLW on the thing if it needs it to wake up. The spell will heal for 13 HP.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=19 ;
Monday February 8th, 2021 7:26:18 PM
"I'm not sure what they are, but they are fast. Better to bind it before you heal it, just in case. Thorondir will go out and check the ones that did not make it. He dismisses the spike growth, and puts the bodies on one of Akuno's discs or has the servants move them to the ship."

When they get back to the ship, he turns to Sol:
"Can you check these things for clues as to what they are? Maybe check them for magic or valuables too?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Monday February 8th, 2021 8:14:15 PM
Haemir leans over the edge and peers down before straightening "I'm going to be honest here but I'm seeing".. his hands motion a kind of surf that becomes a smear... emphasizing little arterial sprays of blood, almost jester-like, either way it looks messy.

He walks over to "Thorondir, they fought tooth and claw through yer entangle, they were definitely coming for us! Your conscience should be clear brother". He pats Thorondir on the back. "Fine trap, using their own inertia against them". He looks proud.

He looks around at the crew in armor, some of them wide-eyed still, it would take a lot of work for them to suddenly stop the maiden, even then it would be quite distant, turning would take ages (or splitting up dangerous) plus returning to search through that mess really wasn't calling him. Afterwards it would also take a while to build up the speed again, he ponders for a second.
"If you feel the need to check them, we can stay at this speed? You'd be able to catch up in a few minutes. Just stabilize n' leave them be. You don't interview the lion about why he wanted to eat you and we certainly don't want them onboard"!

(Haemir is happy to stop if that's the decision - he feels like we've avoided a crash and wants to move on. He will however go with the majority).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Monday February 8th, 2021 8:27:49 PM
”Tell you what, I’ll check on them and gather up any valuables that might be on the bodies. I can change into an eagle again today and fly back to you if I need to. Can’t carry the body, it if you don’t want it aboard then it doesn’t matter.”

Thorondir adjusts his plan to meet with Haemir’s suggestions.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday February 8th, 2021 11:10:39 PM
Caelwyn makes an effort to bind the creature before any attempt is made to awaken it and find out what it is and what it hoped to do. "Domi was with us today...we were spared a hard fight and possible death among our crew." He stands ready with his trident and shield should they decide to awaken and question the creature.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 6:51:05 PM
Sol watches with interest as the loot is gathered up, and gets ready to Detect Magic to look for any magical items.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 6:57:46 PM
"Good idea. We got a bunch of sailors around here. You guys are good with rope, right?" 'Lil asks cause she ain't.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 7:03:13 PM

Akuno is extra glad she made her boots. She's not climbing a rope.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 10:46:39 PM
Caelwyn seconds Lil's idea - the sailors probably know more about ropes than he does.

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Wednesday February 10th, 2021 2:11:16 PM
Seeing the eager crew how could he refuse? With a grin he gives them his blessing.

"Slow the maiden lads. There may be some booty".

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday February 10th, 2021 8:35:10 PM
'Lil chuckles. "He said booty," she snorts while elbowing Caelwyn.

DM shane
Wednesday February 10th, 2021 11:34:24 PM
OOC: these things weigh about 15 lbs. that may be too much for one bird to carry, but two or three eagle surely can lift one.

it is discussed and finally decided to stop and look for booty. the one that was stabilized is going to be down for a while unless someone spends a healing spell on him.

The Maiden is brought to a standstill and anchored to some of the grass, with an iron attachment that looks something like a comb, but with two ropes attached. a net is dropped over the side and Tim who is now looking at Thorondir with a bit of hero worship asks if you want the "boys" to go do it or if the Sentinels want to it.

Each of the bodies has a short sword, 100 gold and a vial on them. the contents of the vial are red, and it seems that the blades have the red smeared on them.

Tim suggests tracking them back and seeing where their camp was. It cannot be but a dozen hundred yard back the way they came. we probably ran up on their camp.

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Thursday February 11th, 2021 6:51:50 AM
Fand will carry the creature.

As the unconscious form is bought on board - Haemir concludes he's seen nothing like it...
Leaning forward he places a hand on it and closes his eyes.

"It's a quickling" he says standing up.
---

(Lore Keeper: May touch a creature to learn about it and it's abilities/weaknesses. Gains info as if made the appropriate Knowledge skill check with a result equal to (15 + BW level + Int mod) = 25).

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Thursday February 11th, 2021 7:02:37 AM
[Fand's carrying capacity is: Light: 37½ lbs. Excluding his barding that leaves 30lbs. Not sure of any rules regarding flying and carrying)?!

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday February 11th, 2021 3:35:18 PM
'Lil casts stabilize on the quickling, just to make sure he don't bleed on the ship. She ain't sure about Tim's suggestion. "Are they evil, Cae? If they're not bad and just defending their territory, I ain't inclined to go bringing more trouble their way."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=13 ;
Thursday February 11th, 2021 4:19:36 PM
”I’m glad they were stopped before they could reach the Maiden, but I am just a bit shocked. To tell you the truth that is the first time I’ve used those two spells in battle. I’ll keep them handy in the future.”

Thorondir solemnly gathers the equipment from the three deceased quicklings.

Aewen circles overhead looking for any potential adversaries while they deal with the bodies.
Perception 13

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Thursday February 11th, 2021 4:33:53 PM
Sol looks to the injured Quickling and it's fellows.

"Perhaps we should see if they have a particular manner of giving due to their dead, and ensure we complete it? It may help earn us some goodwill, whether or not they were attacking..."

He puts his arm out so Corbin can land on it. The bird then clambers up onto his shoulder, also watching intently.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Thursday February 11th, 2021 6:03:59 PM

Akuno isn't sure WHAT to think.

"It's small, like me.", she says. She reaches out and touches its ear, then pulls her hand back. Maybe they were poisonous. She had best be careful.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday February 11th, 2021 11:15:17 PM
Caelwyn looks suspiciously at the vial. "That looks like some kind of poison, perhaps, I would be careful handling it." Frowning, he reaches out a hand toward the creature and closes his eyes, searching for Domi's guidance as to whether this creature is good or evil.

Casts Detect Evil

DM shane
Friday February 12th, 2021 2:51:45 AM
Caelwyn your detect evil, even on the dead ones, it brings back Highlight to display spoiler: {a strong evil signal. chaotic too. }.

Akuno touches a dead one's ear, gown cold, even in the heat of the Sargrass, death tends to leach the heat from your bones.

Sol questions what their death rites are, perhaps Haemir can give some insight?

Thorondir is stunned to realize the effectiveness of those two spells in the sargrass.

Lil asks if they are evil, perhaps Caelwyn knows.

Haemir presses his hand upon the injured one and finds out a lot about it. if you are Haemir Highlight to display spoiler: {Few creatures can match the speed of a quickling. These malicious fey creatures delight in striking with blinding speed and accuracy, often killing their victims without ever fully revealing themselves; the victim simply spurts blood and falls over dead, with no witnesses to the quickling's deed. Though related to brownies and grigs, quicklings share none of their kin's generosity or merriment, choosing instead to live a life of cruelty and viciousness. Quicklings pride themselves on insults and brutality, and frequently stalk and harass their quarry until the victim gives up the chase. While quicklings are naturally invisible when motionless, they rarely contain themselves, and bob and twitch while standing and talking to other creatures. Quicklings hate every other race of creature, particularly elves, gnomes, and other kinds of fey. They barely tolerate their own kind, and rarely work together for longer than a few weeks.

Quicklings stand just over 2-1/2 feet tall and weigh 15 pounds.}

soon the site of the slaughter is picked of all of value, do you dare to venture deeper to find their lair?

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Friday February 12th, 2021 6:32:41 PM
When the subject of loot turns up Haemir suggests an even split crew & Sentinels (at least on this occasion).

“Here’s what I know. Quicklings are malicious, cruel and vicious xenophobes who delight in brutality. Sometimes they taunt their victims and other times they’ll move so quick the first thing you know is when someone falls over spurting blood - quite dead, with no witnesses. That’s how fast they are. Also you can hardly see them when they stand still””.

He paces for a second or two then adds: “Here’s the strange thing, they barely tolerate their own kind, it's rare for them to work together for longer than a week or two, So, either something's going on here or this was the rare exception”.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=28 ;
Friday February 12th, 2021 6:41:48 PM
Thorondir hands all of the gear he has taken from the quicklings to Haemir. "Here you go, do with it what you want."

He then looks at the quickling he stabilzed before he realized that they were evil.
"I kept that one from dying by stabilizing him. I don't have it in me to kill it now. You decide what you will do with it. Also, if you plan on seeking out their camp, realize I can't do those spells again today. We will be at a disadvantage if there are more of them."

Aewen flies above: Perception 28

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday February 12th, 2021 10:41:12 PM
'Lil groans. "If they're evil and there's a bunch'a them nearby, we can't just ignore it. If they're as bad as Haemir says they are, we should go clear'em out if we can." She looks around, hoping someone will say something to prove her wrong and let'em continue on to civilization.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Friday February 12th, 2021 11:05:07 PM
”Well, I’m not sure if you are aware since I did it in eagle form far from the Maiden. I was quite busy and cast all my most powerful spells to try to protect the Maiden and all of you. I’m a bit spent at the moment.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Saturday February 13th, 2021 10:41:02 AM
Sol thinks for a moment.

"If these creatures are as brutish as Haemir claims, it is entirely possible this group only go together to try and attack The Maiden, and as such there may not be a camp out here... but... I would feel remiss and distraught if it turns out there was a camp out here and we did nothing while it pillages another set of travellers. I cannot say in good conscience that we can move on until we are relatively certain this route is safe for others."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Saturday February 13th, 2021 11:29:03 AM

(Sorry, I was waiting for a queue from either the paladin or the witch!)

Akuno yanks her hand back. Cold and dead, that was something she hadn't got to see much of. Suddenly, slaying monsters was suddenly a little less appealing. Random thoughts tumble about in her brain. "What makes these monsters?", she asks. "I certainly hope its their behavior, and not their appearance or their... otherness". She closes her eyes and falls back into her Floating Disk palanquin of pillows. "I am fortunate enough to have both peak human charm AND beastly attributes that add to my cuteness. Some of the beastfolk are not so fortunate. Take our homely and departed dog-boy. That scruffy lumpkin could have easily been mistaken as a monster by someone who didn't take the time to feel him out. I guess even I could be mistaken too, if someone were to consider any beast-traits a sign of being monstrous."

Whether she's really taken in by this line of thought, or just wanted a chance to be smug over how cute she thinks herself to be is anyone's guess. She does have a more solid thought on the quicklings. "Even without Thorondirs spells, we should pursue the monster lair if this area is traveled regularly at all. Or if we want it to be so in the future. If this is a random encounter unlikely to ever be repeated by other travelers, we can probably consider our duty done."

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Monday February 15th, 2021 12:57:45 AM
Caelwyn's eyes narrow, and he lowers his hand slowly. They are not just "other", I fear...Haemir is right. The taint of evil and chaos are both present, and they are strong."

He looks around the ship at the landscape. "We should probably make sure there are no more in the vicinity. If our ultimate goal is to make the Sargrass a safer place for our own settlers and for others as well, we cannot allow a group of creatures like this to flourish."

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday February 15th, 2021 3:01:27 PM
'Lil hears Thorondir mention he's tapped, which makes sense since he's the only one who did anything of importance.

"We can just look today and plan our next move, yea? No need to go in swords swinging and spears stabbin'."

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Monday February 15th, 2021 9:41:01 PM
"My thoughts too" Haemir says nodding after [/b]Lil[/b] speaks.

DM shane
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 3:27:49 AM
things are discussed, questions asked, and information exchanged. but the one thing to come out of it is that monsters such as these cannot be allowed to flourish. it's is decided to find the lair.

does the party traipse blindly through the sargrass following the trail or do they have the ship follow them to aid if need be and also prevent a long walk back?

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 12:58:21 PM
'Lil ain't sure why they'd leave the ship in the first place. Let's stay aboard as we look.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 12:59:21 PM

Akuno nods. "Understood then."

She doesn't even consider the possibility that someone wants to walk through the grass on purpose when they could ride on the ship.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=19 ; d20+10=27 ; d20+6=20 ;
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 1:40:02 PM
Dismissing the spike growth first, Thorondir will follow the trail back to where the quicklings came from, as the ship follows behind him. If he has trouble finding the trail, he will shape change into a wolf to use the scent to track. Otherwise, he stays in his elven form. Aewen flies overhead looking for signs as well.

"Okay, I will see if I can follow their trail while you come behind me on the ship. Go around the pruned grasses."

Perception Thorondir 19
Survival Thorondir 20
Perception Aewen 27

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours) d20+6=10 ;
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 6:25:32 PM
Sol nods at Lil's words.

"[b]Staying on the Maiden is a good idea. It will help us move more swiftly.[b]"

Corbin will fly above us and keep an eye out for the camp. ((10 on Perception))

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:Active - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41 d20+7=17 ;
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 7:50:23 PM
"Good plan. We'll follow up".. He nods to Fand who takes to the sky and starts to search (Perception:17).

DM shane
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 5:24:10 PM
it's easy to follow the path. the little fey tears the ground up good when the run, broken grass, and churned dirt lead like the yellow brick road back several hundred yards to the quicklings camp.

it's an Abbitor, luckily there were only 5 of them, and apparently, they had been preying on some Manfri, the bodies of 2 unlucky folk are in the camp. their deaths were not easy or quick.

Tim quickly moves to cut their bonds and to cover them with his shirt.

The quicklings have small backpacks. and in among the odd and grotesque "trophies" there are another 500 gp a jar of some sort of salve, and two really nice star sapphires about the size of a marble.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 7:05:37 PM
Sol looks saddened by the dead bodies, and even tries to help cover them.

"Tim, is there a particular manner we can lay these poor souls to rest?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:19/15/16 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/411
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 7:52:49 PM
Haemir is appalled at the scene but quick to help recover the bodies...

Laying them out with reverence he crouches down next to one and zones out for a while. Then he starts brushing off little bits of dirt here and there, like a fussing parent he scoops funk from its mouth: "There we can't have that can we"? ... Some of his words can be heard quite clearly, others not so much. "How did you..? No, what do.. body, remains? No"... He carries on for a minute or two.

If you avidly watch him (and into spell-casting) he sort of trances out somewhere in the process and casts (domain: 'Speak with dead') without flourish and snaps back.
"I am sorry for your passing and wish you peace, what should we do with .. those of you left here"?
Haemir isn't expecting a reply - so he jumps to his feet if it does but calms quickly.

He thinks his last question through: "[i]It's his last chance to tell someone something important, or maybe just a warning "don't turn your back on Jon"? At the end of the day he could imagine some people would choose to tell who killed them, but it was obvious here, so perhaps his dying wish or maybe the funniest joke he'd ever heard, or a secret? Dealers choice.
"What is the most important thing you wish to say"?

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 10:07:45 PM
Caelwyn shakes his head at the carnage. "Looks like Thorondir's actions earlier were more than merited...this is truly tragic. May the gods grant them rest...and may Domi give us strength to fight the evil of this land."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Thursday February 18th, 2021 11:32:41 AM
Thorondir is shocked by the brutal murder of the two Manfri, but it is good to see that his actions were merited.

"So now we know what the quickling creatures are. We must be prepared. They were going in and out of invisibility, so we must have a way to counter that. I'll keep those grass spells handy, but my strength limits me to once per day for each at the moment."

He then notices that Haemir is communing with the dead, and Thorondir falls silent.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday February 18th, 2021 3:45:13 PM
'Lil's pretty disgusted. As the only thing passin' for a priest around here, she's ready to give the two manfri their last rites unless a more suitable ceremony presents itself. Haemir starts questioning the corpses. That don't sit well with her, but she ain't a cleric of Gargul or nothing. She waits to see what they say.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/411
Thursday February 18th, 2021 5:45:13 PM
"Ok, so yeah quicklings are naturally invisible when motionless, but they can rarely contain themselves, they bob and twitch like they've eaten a shop full o'sweets. Maybe we can learn to look for their movement"?

DM shane
Friday February 19th, 2021 3:38:31 AM
Haemir The bruised, cut, and tortured body is cold, but the magic makes its lips move, its lungs pump air, and its tongue form words. The quicklings did not defile their mouths, maybe they liked the way they screamed, maybe they died before they could. the corpse has a nice voice, deep for such a tiny body, and even in death you can tell it belong to a man more used to laughing than anything else.

Bury us, so that the sargrass can be nourished by our passing. if you have them, plant Chorley seeds upon our plot, so that others in the sargrass may be nourished by our passing. it is good that you killed the quick ones, it pleases us, that no one else will die by their hand. I know your kind, the tall folk from across the great water, if you were my people i could tell you how to find my home so that you could tell my people I have passed, but you are not, and I have not the words to tell you how to find them. My name was Tomix of the weeping bellflower tribe, son of Malus, the person who died with me was Talina, we were to be wed, he father was Lorix she was of my tribe. if you should see grass folk like me, tell them what happened here, and eventually, word will reach my tribe.

[b]Caelwyn comments on the justness of his friend's actions.

Thorondir starts thinking of how better to interdict the murderous fey.

Lil isn't too keen on casting spells on the dead, but waits to see what will happen first.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday February 19th, 2021 11:21:27 AM
'Lil ain't sure she can keep them names in her head, but Haemir's head's much better than hers. She grabs a shovel, remembering the tools that she stores in her backpack, and starts digging. She's got extras for the crew members and her own dudes who have the muscles for digging through such parched, tough ground.

...

The graves dug, she helps put the Manfri in them and cover it all up. "Domi, there's a lot we don't know about the Manfri, but I've found young folks in love act pretty much the same in all cultures. What happened here was a tragedy, and I pray for their safe passage into their rest. I hope they can be together in the next life, even if this one was cut short too soon."

She's angry, but holds it together. She makes a mental note that quicklings ain't to be talked to before attacking. There's still a little soreness at doubting Thorondir's decision to attack them druids first. She won't be doing that again.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/411
Friday February 19th, 2021 7:04:35 PM
Haemir takes his cauldron out and waves his hands over it. Then starts to speak to the coven of the silver dragon. In particular the Manfri he recruited recently. He tells 'stardust' all about what happened and asks if he can help pass the message on or locate the tribe.

When the magic fades and Tomix's body becomes lifeless again Haemir gently closes the mouth and stands, seeing Lil's obvious distaste for what occurred, he tries to speak, just to say something but he can't. They were about to wed and in the prime of their lives...

He helps with laying them to rest under Lil's direction then after he quietly adds:
"Rest in peace Tomix son of Malus and Talina daughter of Lorix of the weeping bellflower tribe. May your souls recycle n' know each other once more".

He reaches in his bag of holding and searches all the seeds he's been collecting over the years, Chorley was fairly common after all...

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Friday February 19th, 2021 8:26:02 PM

Akuno watches the proceedings both quietly, and with some obvious amount of sadness. What a terrible day! Or was it a good day, since they buried someone and put them to rest? Good on what sort of scale?

She wasn't sure she was cut out for this life sometimes. "But I'm not in it for the lifestyle, I'm in it to be found and reclaimed. Respected and adored. Endure the bad and bask in the good. It's the only way."

She pulls a bit of lace from her dress around each of their fingers. She wasn't a priest or anything, but it made her feel like she did something nice.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Saturday February 20th, 2021 12:18:35 AM
Thorondir listens to the wisdom of the dead Manfri about nourishing the grasses and comes to a decision. After the Manfri are buried he grabs the shovel and walks back to the quickling killing ground. He digs a large hole and tosses the dead creatures into it. He uses the shovel to dice them up a bit to make the nutrients more readily available. He covers up the creatures and pulls a feather token from his bag. Looking about at the pruned down version of the sargrass, he lays the feather on the ground. Uttering a command, a large Oak tree grows above the dead bodies he buried. Once everyone is on the ship, he casts create water in the soil beneath the tree, so that no water sits upon the ground. Hoping the tree and soil will take the water up before anything else has the chance.

“A monument to what has happened here, so we will never forget. The oak will use water wisely and when we come this way again I will give it a drink.”

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Saturday February 20th, 2021 11:19:59 PM
Caelwyn does what he can to help lay the poor souls to rest, but also makes sure to keep an eye out for any other approaching enemies. He listens with appreciation to Lil's words, and utters his own silent prayer asking that Domi give them the strength to resist evil in the days ahead.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Monday February 22nd, 2021 5:28:08 PM
Sol also does what he can to help lay these poor souls to rest as well, he isn't strong or able, but does his best and tries to help where he can.

DM shane
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 2:33:10 AM
the deceased final requests are fulfilled, and with it, a sense of sorrow, pain, and loss that you didn't even realize were affecting the space is replaced by a feeling of completion, peace, and continuance. The Maiden pulls up about 50 yards from the area and drops a rope ladder, while the crew scans the area for danger.

in the distance an Oak Tree springs to life in the cleared area where the Qucklings died.

does anyone try to appraise the value of the two star sapphires?

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 1:49:17 PM
Wait, an oak tree springs to life? Like, a tree grew there...oh wait, Thorondir's spell.

'Lil can't appraise anything and is eager to get moving again.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours) d20+15=17 ; d20+15=26 ;
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 3:55:12 PM
Sol will attempt to appraise the stones, showing some interest in them ((17 and 26 respectively)).

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 4:47:03 PM
As the men are prepping to leave Haemir stops and smiles when a distant tree suddenly sprouts up. He smiles and offers the new-born a salute by tipping an imaginary hat.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 9:57:03 PM

Akuno too, waves a happy wave at the tree. "Well, that was not something I expected today. Are we all ready to get moving again?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20=17 ;
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 11:11:09 PM
Caelwyn smiles at the sight of the tree, a welcome sight to him on these open plains. He takes a wild guess at the worth of the sapphires (17)

DM shane
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 4:44:50 PM
The scene of the slaughter fades as the ships makes its way toward it's destination. a few weeks pass and during that time Caelwym gets a read on how much the Sapphires are worth. but the little jar of Ungent is still a mystery.

two robins eggs sapphires are of real pristine quality. and you estimate that they are worth about 7000gp a piece.

the pilots book takes you to where Zaran City was the first time, but it's not there now. Donald gets excited. if its moved and you can find it. he can sell the info for a pretty gp.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 6:02:43 PM
OOC: Sorry to not post, Mom has been in the hospital.

Once the oak has grown, Thorondir wild shapes into an eagle and he and Aewen perch in the tree until the ship is almost out of sight. The feeling of having a tree beneath you is something he has sorely missed, and after the carnage it helps ground him. He assumes that is because the tree's roots connect him to the ground, as his talons connect him to the tree. He must find some way to bring more trees into the grasses.

During the voyage Thorondir spends lots of time with Aewen, as the two eagles soar above the boat.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours) d20+13=26 ;
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 7:03:41 PM
Sol will spend most of the voyage trying to learn a little about how the boat works, what the different roles on the ship are and how they interact, writing it all down in his journal.

He also shares the value of the two sapphires, and perhaps tries to figure out what the ungent is? ((Spellcraft - 26))

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 7:58:02 PM
Haemir enjoys the wind in his hair with Fand flying beside the maiden and spends freetime working on a theory/spell.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 8:31:54 PM
'Lil does not share Donald's excitement. How was he planning on finding said city? It could have moved pretty darned far.

"Thorondir, maybe it's close enough for you or Aewen to find it from the air?"

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 10:27:21 PM
Caelwyn is pleased at the value of the sapphires, and speaks with Sol and the others about it. He, like Lil, is less than pleased to discover that the city has moved. "That's unfortunate...is there any rhyme or reason to how things move around here?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=26 ; d20+10=15 ;
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 11:13:13 PM
Thorondir and Aewen fly high and look for the lost city.
Perceptions 26, 15

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Thursday February 25th, 2021 2:51:08 PM
Haemir will offer to compare the angel blood he has against the ungent to see if they look similar.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Thursday February 25th, 2021 6:19:42 PM

Akuno doesn't get it. "How does Zaran city up and move? Or does the path there move? How did we miss it?"

Zaran City

DM shane
Friday February 26th, 2021 3:41:29 AM
the ships begins the search...it's called a wagon wheel pattern. only there are no spokes in this wheel. it' is known that Zaran City is in the Crystal Mountains. so basically you sail till you find them and then follow the ridgeline till you reach the city. it all takes about 2 days. until you see the gleamins spires of the city in the distance.
Zaran City does not have a Dock. and they keep the grasses trimmed out to about a mile from the base of the mountain.

OOC: sorry guys. got this done earlier, but darned if I didn't fail to post it.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday February 26th, 2021 10:58:16 AM
If the grasses are trimmed out a mile from the city, it looks like she and her dudes are walking. That's fine. It'll give her a chance to get her land-legs back.

She wonders what a massive undertaking it must be to keep the grasses trimmed back a mile. "There's gotta be a whole department in their government for keeping sure they don't get overrun by grasses," she muses out loud. Regardless, she looks forward to a long walk without weaving through grass.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Friday February 26th, 2021 2:09:06 PM
"I can't say I'm glad to be in a city, but I suppose we should go since that is our destination."

Thorondir looks around at the grass and wonders if it is trimmed by manual methods or if druids have done this.

"They could provide employment to keep the grasses at bay, though it would take a lot of folks to keep at it. The trick I used to diminish the grasses when we were being attacked could also be used to do this. Though it would take a long time for druids to do such a large area. Still, it has a more permanent effect than traditional pruning would have."

DM shane
Saturday February 27th, 2021 3:13:58 AM
The party is impressed with the thousands of square feet that are kept cut down by the citizen of the city. you weigh anchor, it's a half-circle with each end butting up against the mountain to each side. in the distance, you can make out a guard post or something set up in front of the trail heading up the mountain.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Saturday February 27th, 2021 4:17:25 AM
"This should be fun"...

After a couple of weeks on the maiden - stretching their legs and exploring a city was enough to bring a smile to Haemir's face.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Saturday February 27th, 2021 12:39:02 PM
Thorondir tucks the compass into his bag as they leave the ship.
"Are we keeping watch on the ship while we are in town?" He asks Haemir.

"If the ship does get moved for any reason, we will need the compass to find it again. I'll ask Aewen to stay near the ship and keep watch. She will come look for me if there is something wrong."

Thorondir speaks with Aewen (using speak with animals) and asks her to watch the ship and fly to the city and find him if needed.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Saturday February 27th, 2021 2:18:42 PM
"Actually leaving someone here is a brilliant idea"! Haemir agrees but then ponders for a second, "May I suggest Fand instead or as well? Fand and I share a sort of bond, it's difficult to explain but if someone steals the Maiden I will know instantly. That way Aewen won't have to come find us .. wherever we are"?!

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday February 28th, 2021 11:30:37 PM
Caelwyn wonders also if it is feasible to leave some crewmen as guards, with Fand perhaps. "We certainly cannot risk leaving the Maiden unguarded, that could prove disastrous."

DM shane
Monday March 1st, 2021 2:35:40 AM
Don't forget the Jar of ointment you found in the backpacks. no one has checked on it. magic not magic, potion or poison.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday March 1st, 2021 2:45:57 PM
'Lil was born in a city much bigger than this one. She's very much looking forward to being back in one. She walks up to the guards, hands not by her weapons and a smile on her face.

"Hey dudes! I'm 'Lil, these are my friends. We're the Sentinels out of New Rattledam. Mind if we head up into your city?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20+10=22 ;
Monday March 1st, 2021 3:31:59 PM

Akuno has some skills with magic items. She tries to figure out the ointment. "Can you guys lend me a hand with this please? It looks like its gross to touch. I need a volunteer to do all the icky parts."

Spellcraft: 22

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 32/32 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 16/16
Monday March 1st, 2021 4:40:01 PM
Looking at Akuno and the ointment she is examining, Thorondir smiles:
"This is when we miss Grindar and Bigby the most. They both would love to do the icky parts for you. Perhaps Haemir is the next most likely to get slimy? I don't want that stuff on me. Maybe Sol?"

Having Fand and Aewen stay back to guard the ship makes sense, though having folks there may be a good idea too.

When they are out of hearing from the crew:
"Haemir, do you want to keep some of the crew on watch, and rotate so that they can go into the city and take care of whatever their needs are? Also, do you plan on sharing some of the loot with the crew? Might make them a bit more loyal if they share in the plunder."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Monday March 1st, 2021 4:46:38 PM
"Hmm, I don't know much about such things but".. he takes out his angel blood and compares it against the ungent to see if they look similar. Then he watches Akuno do her thing.
---

(Guide(Su): Gaze imposes a +2 insight bonus on Akuno's next skill check).

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:34/34 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:20/24 - HP:41/41
Monday March 1st, 2021 4:54:49 PM
"I believe we should share but it's not only my say... Also we can let them go in stages but let's go check it ourselves first maybe"?
Haemir checks in with the crew to ensure they don't mind watching the Maiden for a while. They can visit later... If they wish.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Monday March 1st, 2021 5:21:31 PM
((OoC: Sol did try to identify the ointment, but never got a response! :P))

Sol is happy to finally be in another bigger city, he begins getting excited about getting new spells for his spellbook.

DM shane
Monday March 1st, 2021 9:28:53 PM
it's a restorative ointment, good roll Akuno.
With that, each of you give yourself enough exp to bring yourself up to the next level. email me at Texsoroban@gmail.com with a link to your updated character sheet.

who all is going on the away mission to the city? crewmembers? how many are staying behind? do they have enough food and water? Everyone wants to go to the city, do you let them? do you set up a rotation?

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:14 - Fand AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 5:29:32 PM
"Look lads" Haemir says to the crew. "Great work finding the place! Whatever reward there is for charting it n' telling everyone where the city is, that's up to you! Share amongst yourselves. Also each of the quicklings had 100 gold, which after we have bought some supplies n' if the rest o' the Sentinels agree, I am happy to for that to be yours.. But I have to ask! I know you got some great singers n' I've heard" he grins cheekily: "some o' yer 'Ballard's', but this is new territory now n' I don't mean the town, I mean the title. Yer all crew o' the Maiden n' I'm not sure if we're still New Rattledam envoys, but ye gotta put on a clean show, no fighting, damaging, n' so on. Keep a low profile here n' best behaviour"! To emphasize how serious he is Haemir adds: "Cause a stir n' ye'll be walking home"! He says it all gently and politely with a smile but it's clear he doesn't have room for idiots who will harm reputation here...

Haemir would like to take the party (leaving the crew in case there is trouble/taxes/questions - who knows!?) then a rota. He duggets The Maiden always has at least 4-6 people to guard it. Sometimes crew and one or two of the party, and all variations, keeping it fair.

"Everyone has earned some shore leave"! Yeah it sounded weird when you thought about it ehen you consider they sailed land now-a-days!? "We'll bring food n' supplies back to the ship, people can eat here or in town when they go in".

If everyone agrees he's up for setting off (eager to explore find the WLA place he'd heard about) and look around.

Rich L. subbing for Caelwyn
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 5:39:33 PM
With his arms crossed the Paladin looked over the edge of the Maiden. The grass swayed in multi-hued colours, sometimes beautiful, sometimes eerie.
He couldn't shake the feeling something was out there...

The wind tugs at his long hair as he stairs in to the distance "I'll take the first watch. I have a bad feeling about this place"... Yep he could brood with the best of them!

"I'll see you in the inn later"!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 5:44:09 PM
"Buy food and then give the crew the rest of the gold. It wasn't a good kill, so I want none of it. Aewen doesn't care for cities, nor do I, and she has been trained to guard. She will keep by the Maiden and guard it, excepts when she needs to hunt for food. I'll go in for a bit, but I'm sure I'll be back to the Maiden quickly and can relieve crew to go into town."

Thorondir will go and look for some fresh berries at the market to use for the goodberry spell. He will also look for a berry bush that he can put in a pot to keep aboard the Maiden.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 9:46:57 PM
'Lil's also excited to check out the WLA. They had a chapter house in Hook City, of course, but she wasn't really comfortable saying she was an adventurer when she hadn't been on any actual adventures yet. She hooks elbows with Haemir when they make it inside the city and makes her way to their HQ.

DM Steve -- Base of the Mountains
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 11:17:24 PM
The mountains tower over the Maiden and dwarf the rather impressively sized lawn that's been made here.

In the cut-short grass, the mile to the guard station goes quickly, with the mountains looming above the perty. For years now, the Sentinels have not encountered such easy-to-walk-on terrain except for the patch in and around Rattledam where nothing grows anymore.

The crew of the Maiden has remained on board the ship, having been promised a chance to visit the city a few at a time and money recovered from the quicklings to spend there. They have food enough for two weeks. Aewen and Fand are watching the boat as well, for the moment. "We'll bring food n' supplies back to the ship, people can eat here or in town when they go in". Haemir promised. As the party leaves, they can hear the sailors swapping rumors about the place -- "D'you think it's true you have to know magic to live there?" "Bet it's cold way up there." "I heard they have flying machines."

'Lil walks up to the guards, hands not by her weapons and a smile on her face. "Hey dudes! I'm 'Lil, these are my friends. We're the Sentinels out of New Rattledam. Mind if we head up into your city?"

There is no particular path to the guard post on this side, but clearly on the other side a marked trail starts and winds up and onto the back side of the mountain.

The two gnome guards look over the Sentinels carefully, for all that these gnomes seem friendly enough. "You can head on up if you want, but don't you want to dress warmer?" The mountains seem to go straight up from the plain, and the city is above the snow line. "I know it looks close, but it takes most of a day to reach Zaran City from here." The way he pronounces Zaran sounds almost like Zarnan. The guards talk among themselves a moment (Sol can tell you later that they were discussing what they could do to help the group stay warm) and one disappears into the shack only to come back with a heavy coat for Akuno, if she wants it. Clearly, nothing that fits them is going to help the larger party members, though.

Thorondir wants to find berries. Haemir and 'Lil are really looking forward to the WLA. And, of course, the Catacombs will be there.

After a little more discussion, the guards also say that if you decide you need heavier clothing, there is a barbarian village not far off -- just go left at the only fork in the path. The Sentinels could easily reach it, stay the night, and reach Zaran City tomorrow.

=====
OOC: The characters are close enough that if you want to start your character's business in the Catacombs now, you may.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 2:24:41 PM
'Lil can use her magic to protect herself from the cold, but can't help anyone else.

"What do ya say, dudes? Buy some coats from that village then head on up? Probably a good idea to buy a few if they have it so we can lend'em out to the crew."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 4:02:30 PM
When Lil locked arms with Haemir he gave her an almost boyish grin. "Quite exciting isn't it? What's it been.. nearly three years since we've seen a new town or city"!?

He thanks the gnome guards for their kindness and agrees - even though between them the Sentinels could probably march right on up there he was interested in visiting the village on the way!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 4:11:31 PM
"All I need is my cloak, but we can check out the village on the way. Are you sure three years is a long enough time between visits to a city? Seems like a few more years could go by, we have all we need in my opinion. Though I guess folks always want more, and what better place to find what you don't need than in a city, where everyone else has it."

Thorondir is ready to go, but you don't see the same excitement on his face as Haemir and Lil show.

Rich - subbing for Caelwyn
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 4:12:31 PM
Seeing the generousity of the guards Caelwyn speaks up. "Thank you kindly. May I ask is there anything we should know before entering your good city or the Barbarian village? Anything unique to this area"?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 7:25:28 PM
Sol nods.

"Yes, some warm clothes would be helpful, my constitution is not particularly formidable..."

DM Steve -- Base of the Mountains
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 11:47:52 PM
Caelwyn's question about anything unique to the area gets some laughter in response. The guard seems a bit embarrassed at having laughed, and clearly isn't trying to tease anyone, but the only explanation is, "What hasn't been these last years?"

It's a few hours to Smashed in Teeth village. Folks there are seem friendly enough, but very surprised to have visitors. The Sentinels are easily able to obtain winter clothing and find a place to stay for the night. At a few hundred souls, this is the largest village they've seen since coming to the Sargrass. About half of the place are gnomes, and most of the rest are dwarves, with humans making up the remainder. They are thirsty for news. In return, they tell the Sentinels of the great change that happened a few years back. This used to be a flat, icy wasteland surrounded by mountains. When the Sargrass appeared, there was upheaval. Afterward, they were among the mountains but below the ice. Oddest thing -- no one was injured by the shifting.

The next day, the group journeys up to Zaran City. It does not take as long as the gnomes had said it would, but still takes a little more than half the day. As they climb the mountain it does get colder, and by noon they are among snow. The glimpses of the city they manage on the way up are enough to show that it is a walled city, with at least two more walls inside the outer one. The whole place seems to glitter, as if everything is covered in ice up there.

And so by mid-afternoon, the Sentinels are standing at the gates to Zaran City, on a trail that is occasionally being used by others as well. The guards challenge them in a way that says this is just routine, asking them to "State your business. What reason do you have for entering Zaran City."

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday March 4th, 2021 3:04:35 PM
'Lil nods as the villagers well of the upheaval. "Well, this looks like a better place to live than an icy wasteland." She makes little air quotes when she says icy wasteland, showin' she was using their words and not making judgement calls of her own. "We're real glad for the clothes, though. Don't get much ice and snow in the Sargrass." She invites the villagers to come visit New Rattledam anytime, figuring a little tourism money wouldn't hurt anyone.

***

"We're just here to spend our money, good sir. Food, supplies, maybe a trip to The Catacombs. Few of us also wanna check out the WLA." She cocks her thumb back down the mountain. "We also got crew what's gonna come rotate in for some shore leave. We made'm promise to behave and they're good folks. Shouldn't give you trouble."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Thursday March 4th, 2021 5:16:43 PM
Sol smiles upon seeing the city proper, and begins to relax, he was more at home in cities that were hustling and bustling, but oddly enough he wanted a quiet life eventually, but there would be time enough for that.

Sol let's Lil do all the talking, he's skills don't like in the diplomatic.

Rich - subbing for Caelwyn
Thursday March 4th, 2021 6:02:01 PM
Caelwyn wonders if there are any temples of Domi here but asks where the best place to buy armor is. The temple will be obvious...

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:47/47 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Thursday March 4th, 2021 6:17:12 PM
Smashed in Teeth was an interesting name for a village but 'why is your village called ...' could surely only end up with the inevitable. He's didn't ask.

Haemir stops to admire the walls and glistening city from the track. "This place gets more interesting with each step".

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 2d4=5 ;
Thursday March 4th, 2021 7:44:47 PM
As they climb up to the city, Thorondir casts Endure Elements on himself. His light cloak over his shoulders allows him to easily move without a cumbersome coat weighing him down. He looks for a berry bush along the way, hoping to put one in a container to have aboard the Maiden. Thorondir will either pick berries along the trail (if they are available), or purchase some in the market. Once he has them, he will cast Goodberry on them.
(5 berries affected if he was able to procure them)

"Well, this is a nice change from the grasses. Nice to see some variety of plants and animals."

Thorondir keeps note of the types of plants and animals he sees as they climb, knowing that elevation and temperature play a key roll on distribution of plants and animals.

DM Steve -- Zaran City d100=47 ;
Thursday March 4th, 2021 11:08:07 PM
On the way to the city, Thorondir has found some berries, visible from but not right along the path. Haemir admires the city when he glimpses it.

When challenged by the guards, 'Lil says that the group is here to buy food and supplies. When she mentions the Catacombs, the guards talk to each other in gnomish momentarily before the one who issued the challenge says, "Be welcome, then. Catacombs and WLA are in Fitzrovia -- the outer sodality south of this one. You'll find lodging in King's Cross. This, of course, is Westgate." In response to Calewyn asking about armor, the group is told "Most of the outer sodalities have an armorer or two, but I'd recommend Portman's, in Mayfair." He gives directions that would take you north.

Sol begins to relax, being in a real city for the first time in years. He catches the gnomish the guards are speaking to each other. They are referring to the Sentinels -- except for Akuno -- as "the big ones," and find them a bit strange. Still, their conduct towards the party is very professional, and they say nothing in Common that could even remotely give offense (gnomish accent not withstanding).

Once past the gate and a couple of blocks east into the city, the party finds a wide north-south road intersected by a maze of smaller ones. A good three-quarters of the people in the streets here are gnomes. Once again, dwarves are the second most common race. The buildings seem to be made of ice on stony foundations. From the sounds and smells, there are numerous businesses. It is simply up to the Sentinels to decide where to go, or where to meet up.

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Friday March 5th, 2021 10:50:44 AM
"I'm going to find this Portman's, in Mayfair. Shall we meet later at the King's Cross in Westgate"?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Friday March 5th, 2021 11:00:41 AM

Akuno snaps out of a strange reverie. She ashamedly realizes she has no idea whats going on, but they are in Zaran City, which is a good thing. She wrinkles her nose at the idea of a coat. "Lacey dresses are ideal for all weather. A coat is bulky and makes me look fat."

When the chance is available, Akuno is happy to start checking out the town. Her goal? Fish. She KNOWS its the sargrass, but with magic and things... maybe someone somewhere is selling some fish not coated in a salty barrel?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday March 5th, 2021 11:07:51 AM
"Akuno, we are in the mountains and the snow melt will form streams ideal for fish. They should have fish at a market, or we can go and catch some ourselves. I'm headed to the market to look for a berry bush in a planter, if you want to go along with me we could both look for our food together."

Thorondir will either purchase a berry bush if available, or he will buy a small planter and move the berry bush he found earlier into it.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:47/47 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Friday March 5th, 2021 11:25:25 AM
Haemir grins at Akuno's fish obsession and scratches his head contemplating a long term fix.

"I'm probably going to need a couple of days here, the guild I'm looking for does some training".. he looks at 'Lil before continuing, "Guessing that's the same for you"? He grins. "Coming"? Intending to get tougher he knows it's probably gonna end with aches and pains...

On the way he also detours to the catacombs to buy a scroll.

DM Steve -- Zaran City
Saturday March 6th, 2021 10:09:56 AM
Caelwyn and Haemir discuss going separate ways and meeting back at the King's Cross. Thorondir invites Akuno to find a market with him; Haemir asks 'Lil if she wants to go to the Catacombs. Sol is left to tag along with whoever he wants, or to strike off on his own.

Those going to Mayfair notice that as they move from Westgate to Mayfair, the number of non-gnomes increases dramatically. Non-gnomes seem to outnumber gnomes here, although gnome is still the most common race to be found. Portman's specializes in exotic armors -- that is, suits big enough for dwarves or humans. It also specializes in metal, although leather and hide are readily available nearby. Down the road is a place that handles exotic weapons, as well.

Those going to Fitzrovia also notice a distinct change of atmosphere when moving to that sodality from Westgate, although it's difficult to identify what has changed. The area seems to be a little rougher, maybe. The Catacombs and WLA are here. Folks tend to be a bit more focused on where they're going.

Anyone poking around Westgate finds warehouses, stabling, and a collection of repair shops and other shops catering to specialized needs or out-of-towners, but no big market. It's as if many people come here to drop off or pick up goods for distribution elsewhere.

King's Cross is actually the sodality south of Fitzrovia -- not a particular business, but sort of the hospitality district. It has a market, numerous inns, taverns, and a generally laissez-faire attitude to the crowds. The atmosphere here is subtly more welcoming than the other areas, and definitely louder.

Each of these neighborhoods is ten or thirty times as big as Rattledam, and they're only the outlying parts of Zaran City. Anyone not from Plateau City, Hook City, or the Float could reasonably find it a bit overwhelming.

The Sentinels manage to find each other again in the market at King's Cross as evening starts -- the market does have (expensive, because they are imported) fish and a container Thorondir finds suitable for his needs.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:47/47 - CMD:14 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Saturday March 6th, 2021 10:48:13 AM
Haemir had been collecting members of his coven in every place he'd visited since his arrival. So far The Coven of the Silver thread (a.k.a. 'The Fate Weavers') had a member in New Rattledam and another at the Stone Temple. The surprise was 'Stardust' the Manfri who'd also joined at New Rattledam, but un/fortunately(?) the Manfri roamed around so you could never quite know where he would be! There was definitely room for one more member though and after befriending a halfling on his WLA training the pair took lunch together. Galdysa was feisty and had an uncanny knack of being able to throw absolutely anything with amazing accuracy. A strange talent but one both he (and the instructors) had enjoyed, finding many uses for during the days intense physical training! When Galdysa accepted Haemir's offer to join he gave his new friend a hug and treated her to a new cauldron.

Before meeting the Sentinels Haemir waves his hand over his own cauldron and hears Galdysa's chime next to him (an indication that they were all linked and active), it was time to introduce the new member to his coven and catch up on any Sargrass news.

Later, he catches up with the party, more than a little achy. "Ugh, that was quite a hard days training". The first ale went down rather well! Only one more day to go...

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Saturday March 6th, 2021 11:22:32 PM

Price? No object. Akuno quite happily buys a good amount of the stuff. Fish is life. She briefly considers the catacombs, but doesn't have much in the way of funds at the moment. Besides, her dress needed some attention and the threads could be quite expensive. (Updating WBL for legacy item)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Sunday March 7th, 2021 11:56:37 AM
Perplexed that they have to import fish to a snow covered mountainous area, Thorondir decides to investigate. Snow is everywhere high in the mountain (as reported), and at some point below, the snow melts and must run into a stream. Thorondir finds the place where the snow begins to melt and follows the trickle down hill. He looks for signs of aquatic insects and anything living in the water. if the water doesn't form a pool anywhere, he will use Stone Shape and create a small dam and a reservoir of water behind it. If he does see a large stream or pool, he wild shapes into a water elemental and goes into the water searching for signs of life.

Once a pool has been established Thorondir will take his remaining token and plant an oak tree at the waters edge. Casting plant growth enrichment, he makes sure the tree and surrounding vegetation thrives.

This will likely take a couple of days of his time, unless of course he can't find a small stream of water.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:47/47 - CMD:16 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+25=31 ;
Sunday March 7th, 2021 2:30:10 PM
After his second boot-camp day Haemir plods back to the WLA chapterhouse to do a few hours research, then feeling more like a hundred year old human (as opposed to an elf) he seeks out Thorondir (with Fand's aid) and admires the work the druid has done/or if he doesn't find him meets back at the Maiden.

"Look I'm not really sure where I'm going with this, but I've hit barrier with all my green-finger skills n' so I've done some research that says experiencing life as a tree for a day has helped others"... he waits for Thorondir to laugh in his face, even he had to admit it sounded mad! "So, I've purchased a scroll that will hopefully allow me to do that! If I can make it work would you be so kind as t'watch over me please..? Hey did you make another tree grow here"? He grins.

For too long Haemir had wanted to know what it would be like (especially here in the plains) and if it offered some respite from all the aches - 'Why not today'? He reasoned. Choosing a place near the Maiden he digs deep within himself and blesses his next action with some Bloodwitch luck before taking out the scroll and attempting to cast it.
---

(Using his Guide/Mislead Ability Haemir grants himself a +2 insight bonus on his next skill check. He also uses a hero point in advance and then tries to read his scroll of Extended Tree Shape (written with a caster level of 12)).

(Use Magic Device:34 - sorry forgot to include skill focus: U.M.D. (+3) in the above roll).

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Monday March 8th, 2021 7:50:37 AM
Caelwyn explores the shops, checks out if there is a temple to Domi and listens in on any news of gossip. After a few weeks on the ship - land feels good. The food here is good too...

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Monday March 8th, 2021 10:06:09 AM
Thorondir grins at Haemir.
"Of course I'll watch over you, I may be a tree for a while myself. Why don't you do it by the pool I built, that way you can drink with your roots. Nothing like it."

Thorondir also moves the berry bush into the container, and uses his plant growth enrichment to include it.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday March 8th, 2021 11:49:00 AM
'Lil shakes her head. "Yea dude," she replies to Haemir. "Let's go do some shopping before hitting the WLA. You think they got some kinda hazing ritual at the WLA? Make the newbies stand naked in a bucket of water for a few hours or something? I hope not. Seems like that'd be unprofessional, ya know?"

She finds herself immediately at home in the city. It's no Hook City, but what was? She pays attention to how comfortable she found her large frame to be in a city mostly of gnomes. How much effort was spent making taller guests feel comfortable? How often did she have to stoop low to get through a door way. Were there big girl tables and chairs when she ate?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Monday March 8th, 2021 5:18:49 PM
Sol spends his time looking for any other like minded Magical folk to see if he can learn anything new, or start making some more alliances. He's seen Haemir forge bonds with other casters, and is yearning to do the same. He does ensure he has some decent quality cold weather gear however.

When meeting up with the rest of the group his appears bright and happy, and greets them all in his normal friendly if formal fashion.

"Did everyone get everything that they felt they needed? Or must we spend some more time shopping?"

DM Steve -- Zaran City
Monday March 8th, 2021 10:34:44 PM
On the evening of the fourth day after leaving the boat, with over a week left before they need to take supplies back, the Sentinels gather in the upstairs taproom of their inn, the Girgrielzallua Blaevrums. Apparently that means the "Idle Dragon" to the locals, although Sol thinks the translation mischievous might be better than idle. They have each had a couple of days to explore the city and buy or learn what they could. And while they can't see the stars through the roof with the glare from inside the room, they can tell that it's dark out.

Haemir talks about training at the WLA and about this halfling he's hit it off with. He asks Thorondir for help with gaining a tree's perspective.

Akuno is happy to have found fish. Unsalted fish, at that.

Thorondir left the city to satisfy his curiosity, and learned that the ecosystems around here have suffered some trauma. They are not mature.

Caelwyn has explored the shops and found that Domi is one of the few gods who has a temple here. Caelwyn had to go to one of the other sodalities to find it, standing near but on this side of the gate through the first inner wall of the city.

'Lil did some shopping before heading to the WLA. As she's paying attention to it, she has noticed that King's Cross and Mayfair are physically more accommodating -- they have establishments suited to human-sized creatures, and even larger in some cases, without making her feel confined.

Sol has looked for folk who study magic and found school after school after school dedicated to the magical arts. It seems that most folks raised here know some magic, specializing in what they call ice magic. Given that the buildings and sometimes the furniture are made of ice, it's easy to believe. A majority of the gnomes in the city seem to carry a wand or two -- he has no idea how many can do magic with (or without) them.

While the Sentinels are comparing notes and enjoying their food and drinks, a dashing gnome comes in with his entourage in tow. His armor appears to be made of ice, as does the hilt of his rapier (the scabbard is not ice, however). Many of the group have similar armor. Under the armor, their clothing is a bright crimson. "Drinks for the house! We had a successful hunt today," he exclaims. This gets a roar of approval from the room, which is supplied more enthusiastically by the non-gnomish patrons of the place than by the gnomes. In fact, a couple of tables over a group of gnomes in yellow uniform start grumbling amongst themselves.

As the evening wears on, it becomes apparent that the red-dressed and yellow-dressed gnomes have some sort of rivalry, and the red ones are here to brag about the major coup they just scored. Apparently the beast they fought was noteworthy somehow.

====
OOC:
* Day 1, left boat and stayed with barbarians. Day 2, arrived at Zaran City. Days 3 and 4, exploring the town.
* Haemir can spend time as a tree, but has not had the opportunity yet.

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 3:00:13 AM
Caelwyn looks up from his ale, "Can't say that armor looks very warm to wear"!

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 11:55:07 AM

Akuno is happily doodling in her notebook, kicking her legs under the table. The louder the gnomes get, the harder it is to concentrate. She doesn't want to spoil a celebration so she puts away her half sketched cloak and gloves set, drawn on a model that looked suspiciously like Sol.

She glances at her untouched mug, then finally notices the armor made of ice. Ice! She slips quietly from the table at shoves her mug into arms of her unseen servant. "Come on then, carry my drink and follow me!" Before long, she's taking notes on the icy armor, rapid firing questions at the gnomes. "Thanks for the drinks! What's this armor? Is it cold? Can I touch it? Can you shape it? Is it permanent or do you remake it every day? What'd you fight? What's it look like? Can I sit here? I'm Princess Akuno, who are you?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 3:33:19 PM
Sol nudges Lil.

"Perhaps we can find out more about this rivalry, may be a good way to get some people on our side and open up trade with New Rattledam?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:47/47 - CMD:16 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 6:36:22 PM
What Haemir loved about the feline princess was he could sit back and chill whilst she asked all the geeky-sounding questions he was dying to ask! Teamwork!

DM Steve -- Zaran City
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 10:34:16 PM
While the rest of the group watches, Akuno goes to make the acquaintance of these gnomes. "Thanks for the drinks! What's this armor? Is it cold? Can I touch it? Can you shape it? Is it permanent or do you remake it every day? What'd you fight? What's it look like? Can I sit here? I'm Princess Akuno, who are you?"

A handful of gnomes welcome Akuno The answers to her questions seem to be -- and maybe in the right order -- Ice armor. / No, it's not cold. / Begnym. / Yes. No. We mean, we can't shape it, but gnomes can. The ones who know how. / It's magic. / Jinzic. Borwass. / He means it lasts. / Yes, you may. / Snaanbag. Labkost.

"What did we fight? Well, we fought a dire polar bear. As big as three ogres, and much more viscious." The leader of the group starts telling the tale of fighting the bear, doubtlessly embellishing a bit for effect, and flirting casually with Akuno as he talks. Still, the crowd is impressed as soon as he names the beast.

While the victorious gnomes are enjoying the spotlight, Sol gets the attention of one of the fellows in yellow. This gnome explains that the people of Zaran City are still adapting to the changes that occurred when the Sargrass returned -- changes that separated them from the civilized (albeit dwarven) kingdoms of the Ice Vein. Many people are still upset by it, some are of the “makes no difference to me” viewpoint, and most have adjusted to the way things are now simply because they had to move on. But the move stirred up a number of dangerous creatures living in the mountains. The sodalities have a competition to see which can hunt the mightiest monster. Of course, nobles like those fellows have an advantage in arms, armor, and magic. Sometimes they even hire outsiders to help them.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 11:19:52 PM
Hey, 'Lil was an outsider. So were the rest of her dudes.

This sounds like an adventure to 'Lil, who realizes she's been so busy with what's best for New Rattledam that she hasn't had time for a proper "punch monsters and take their stuff" adventure. She wonders if she has time now.

Truth be told, she don't much like the thought of being a rich gnome's ringer. She sits down the those yellow fellows. "So, why don't you hire outsiders to help you?" She asks earnestly, even though she figures the answer is "cause we ain't rich."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 11:30:01 PM
Thorondir listens intently to the gnomes and their fights with the mountain animals.
"Have you tried making friends with the bears?"

Looking about the the probably glaring faces he adds:
"Every creature has the same needs, perhaps I could talk to them for you?"

He goes back to sipping on his drink, oblivious to the reactions to his comments.

Thorondir also asks Akuno:
"Were the fish you bought gutted? I would very much like to examine the contents of their stomachs if that is possible."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:47/47 - CMD:16 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Wednesday March 10th, 2021 5:38:54 AM
"Ice armor .. Who'd have thought? Maybe you should check it out Caelwyn"?

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Wednesday March 10th, 2021 6:44:15 PM
Caelwyn listens in and/or asks how to find someone capable of making ice armor.

DM Steve -- Zaran City
Wednesday March 10th, 2021 11:42:59 PM
'Lil considers whether she has time for an adventure. If Rattledam needs help, Haemir will learn of it through his coven but it will take a few weeks to sail back. Short of that, the party left the sailors with two weeks of food four days ago. "So, why don't you hire outsiders to help you?"

Thorondir irritates the locals -- except for the fellows in yellow, who chuckle -- without quite knowing why they feel that way. Akuno, among the celebrants, doesn't answer his question about the fish right now.

Caelwyn asks about ice armor.

'Lil gets pretty much the answer she expects. "We don't have the time to go on long hunts, and can't afford to hire people who could face something like a dire polar bear." Her new drinking companion drains his mug. "That lot's celebrating right now, so they're not looking to hire. But some other nobles will be by in a day or two, hoping to find someone who heard about this and wants to try their luck."

Caelwyn learns that no one in the outer sodalities sells ice armor, and the gnomes aren't even sure anyone makes it in his size. "They don't," says another gnome, taking the seat Akuno abandoned. This fellow is wearing a cape and a white mask that covers the top half of his face -- an affectation some of the local businessmen follow. "You'd have to commission someone to make it. My nephew worked his rotation last week, talked to you down at the border. I can help you with that commission if you want, but you can get armor that protects as well for less. I wouldn't expect the fashions of our city to mean much to folks from the Sargrass."

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Thursday March 11th, 2021 4:49:33 AM
Caelwyn can't help but feel nervous about the idea of armor made of frozen water... Perhaps in the mountains it didn't matter, but n the Sargrass!?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Thursday March 11th, 2021 10:00:23 AM

Akuno is happy for the answers and conversation, and starts doing her best to pick up on some of the gnomish slang and lingo. She hadn't considered making friends with a dire animal before, but with all the friendly companions she'd met lately... it shouldn't be such a foreign idea at this point.

When Thorondir asks about her fish, her eyes narrow in suspicion. "Of course you can examine my fishes. Just don't eat them all Thorondir, or I'll bite you harder than Llew could've."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday March 11th, 2021 12:53:42 PM
"I won't eat your fishes, I promise. I just want to see if I can harvest some plant material or insects from their stomach, these streams need to be replenished with life. Maybe even there are some eggs and sperm from some of the fish, I could try and get our own stock of fish going. It is an outside chance, but something needs to be done here. I think you will agree that a stream without fish is a problem."

Thorondir nods to the gnomes in yellow. "Please let me know if I can be of service. This land can be settled I'm sure of it."

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday March 11th, 2021 3:11:11 PM
'Lil thinks her and her dudes could take a dire polar bear, but she don't much like the idea of killing an animal just to prove it. Do they at least eat the prizes they kill? She looks at their food, wondering if it's bear meat.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:47/47 - CMD:16 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+13=18 ;
Thursday March 11th, 2021 9:19:28 PM
"Hmmm, We used to hunt for food in my tribe, but sport..? He scowls into his ale.

Haemir didn't see why the druid wanted a bio-life now? He guessed the recent "Move" wouldn't necessarily bring all the wild life, but nature seemed to catch up in her own time. He shrugged. He was either more patient or missing something and opted for the latter because Thorondir knew far more than him and it must be important if he was prepared to trawl around the insides of fish guts...

Later that night when everyone was snoring the witch opened his window, crouched down and shifted in to a raven. Flying out the window he makes his way to the clearing with the new tree. If he doesn't find it somewhere near the river will do. Either way not overlooked and people free.

Reverting to his normal form he looks to see if nature has been ripped apart on some level, if insects don't exist (like Thorondir was hinting at earlier) then he silently vomits up spiders and concentrates on the swarm moving it in and around the rocks, near the stream. Maybe 1 or 2 will stay, maybe they will lay eggs? who knows. Maybe nature just needed the door opening. He'd read tales of spiders crossing oceans on nothing but a breeze. He repeats the spell throwing up a new one when the first swarm disapears. He understood magical summons vanished afterwards, but nature could take things from that moment. Who was he to decide? She deserved all he could give. He says a silent prayer to both Ma'ab and then Gargul for wildlife to recycle and life to start afresh and before he leaves plants a few beneficial herbs/plants (nothing Sargrass tainted!!!) that will promote the eco-system (from his bag of holding).

Later raven lands on the window and pecks at the snow cleaning its beak. If there was one thing Haemir hated more than throwing up spiders it was the after taste.

Minutes later the witch was warming his hands by the fireplace lost in thought and willing a drink. It was the first time he'd flown and on several levels it actually beat sailing! The night had been strange and wonderful and he slept well dreaming of moonlight thermal winds and feathered wings above crisp white mountains.
---

Casts 2 x beast shape 1, 2 x vomit swarm. Any attacks on him he leaves using beast shape asap.
(knowledge: nature:18).

DM Steve -- Zaran City d100=17 ; d100=77 ;
Thursday March 11th, 2021 11:44:22 PM
Caelwyn decides not to try to find ice armor.

Akuno enjoys the attention from the gnomes and making new friends. She agrees to let Thorondir examine her fish, but that will have to wait until they are out of the bar.

Thorondir talks about needing to repair the ecosystem, and manages to upset the gnomes once again. They don't want to settle this new land, they want it returned to its former, icy glory. "Celsiun will bring the winter back, I know it," becomes a oft-repeated toast that evening. (In gnomish: Bydd Celsiun yn dod â'r gaeaf yn ôl, dwi'n gwybod.)

'Lil decides against the hunt, and hopes that the gnomes at least make some use of their prizes.

Haemir wonders if Thorondir isn't rushing something that will happen in time anyway.

The evening continues, with conversations about the Sargrass, the isolation the gnomes have felt since the Sargrass returned, and defending the hunts as necessary to protect their road crews and patrols. They still send out patrols hoping to find others in the tundra -- and most of the land is still tundra, for all that there are now warm lowlands beside the Sargrass. They have tried hunting in the grasslands, too, but never with mush success. In that respect, the barbarians have adapted better.

Eventually the evening ends and the Sentinels wander off to their rooms. THorondir inspects Akuno's fish, which have been gutted. Haemir makes a trip in the night to try to help along Thorondir's goals. It is uneventful, but uncomfortable knowing that monsters are out there. Perhaps they, too, like to stay above the snowline.

In the morning, the Sentinels have learned more about the place. This is the fifth day since leaving the crew to watch the boat. There's still time to do more if there is more they want to do.

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Saturday March 13th, 2021 3:25:12 AM
"What else does everyone want to do here"?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Saturday March 13th, 2021 3:57:05 AM
Sol continues searching for access to more spells to add to his spell book, as he wishes to increase his access to arcane power, until he's certain that either A) He's spoken to all groups of spellcasters in the city, or B) He's satisfied there are none, he will keep searching.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:47/47 - CMD:16 - Spells:None - Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+28=44 ; d20+11=31 ;
Saturday March 13th, 2021 8:23:18 AM
In the morning Haemir (Concentration:31) regains his spells and heads down to breakfast.

Afterwards he tells the Sentinels: "I think I'll head back to the Maiden for a day and let some of the crew come into the city". Then turns to: "Thorondir, I'm going to do my tree thing, so if you could watch over me please? I appreciate your suggestion about doing this near the river, but it feels important to try this in the Sargrass, since it's the plains I'm reaching out to". In truth he has no idea if it makes any difference (and will admit such), he's just going with a gut feeling.

Heading to the market he buys some food and a few extra tasty treats for the crew and stashes it all in his bag of holding, then heading back he let's some of the crew go in (half) and tells them what he knows of 'Smashed in teeth' (probably best not to ask why it's called that), and reminds them to behave. Also if it hasn't been done already he shares the gold from the Quicklings with them. After they depart he chooses a spot near the Maiden and takes out the tree-shape scroll. Digging deep within himself (and also blessing his next action with some Bloodwitch luck) he attempts to cast it.

Fand sits in the branches/or on the Maiden pruning herself and dozing.
---

(Using his Guide/Mislead Ability Haemir grants himself a +2 insight bonus on his next skill check. He also uses a hero point in advance and then reads his scroll of Extended Tree Shape (written with a caster level of 12). He has sufficient Wisdom to cast the scroll so doesn't need to make a second roll to emulate that).

(Use Magic Device:44).

If nothing unexpected happens Haemir assumes the shape of a pretty, pale tree with silver-white bark that fades darker nearer the base. At just under 20 feet tall it forms a canopy with elegant, drooping branches that offer shade. (If you know about trees: Highlight to display spoiler: {it's a Silver Birch}).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Saturday March 13th, 2021 11:56:12 AM
Thorondir examines the fish Akuno has, and if they have not been cleaned he will take the stomach out and examine the contents. He then takes the contents and puts them in a small pool at the edge of the small reservoir he built. He is hoping some of the plant material can grow still.

He agrees to go with Haemir back to the Maiden, but along the way he takes his container and carefully transplants the berry bush into it.
"I'm hoping to keep berries available to cast goodberry. Sometimes those are just the thing you need."

He then makes it back to the Maiden and spends some time with Aewen, making sure she is doing well. Thorondir speaks to Aewen in the eagle language, asking her to perch in the new tree that Haemir will make. For his part, Thorondir will stay in elven form as he keeps watch over the tree.

"Okay Haemir, we will keep watch."

DM Steve -- Zaran City
Saturday March 13th, 2021 1:05:49 PM
Caelwyn asks the big question: "What else does everyone want to do here"? Over the course of the next eight or nine days, the sailors are brought to town for short leaves, always leaving someone with the Maiden of the Plains, and always having a Sentinel in town when the sailors are.

Sol continues searching for access to more spells to add to his spell book, as he wishes to increase his access to arcane power. He asks throughout the outer city, encountering more neighborhoods with their own unique atmospheres, and is able to find a number of low level spells. To reach other sodalities requires passing through an inner wall of the city, where guards once again challenge Sol as to his business. Questioning takes longer than at the outer wall, but Sol is allowed to pass. He finds himself in areas even more dominated by gnomes, with accommodations less suited to creatures of his size. Once more, he is able to find spells, including some he can't understand -- what the gnomes call hud ia, or ice magic. He also sees that there is another inner wall, but within eight or nine days his studies haven't exhausted the sodalities he has reached. (Have Shane or Cayzle adjudicate the spells Sol finds and any costs.)

Haemir spends some time as a tree, with Thorondir and Aewen watching him. Since he chose the Sargrass as the place to do this, he discovers that the Sargrass is a very uncomfortable place to be a tree. As best as he can explain later, something about the area seems to push against his birch-ness. It's easy to withstand for a day; he imagines that over years he would end up bending in response to the push and that he would thereafter remain bent.

Thorondir examines the fish Akuno has, which have been cleaned. Asking around, they are cleaned before they arrive in Zaran City, not after. He would be able to figure out a way obtain stomach contents from creatures he can summon without harming those creatures, if he wants. Thorondir takes a potted berry bush to the Maiden.

Akuno and 'Lil split their time between the city and the boat, with perhaps a bit more affinity for the city.

Restocking the boat and making a few minor repairs so that it is ready for a return trip will cost 50 gp from the party as a whole.

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Saturday March 13th, 2021 5:32:32 PM
Caelwyn is on a mission to find some medium/heavy armor and an improved weapon so he would definitely ask more about the ice armor and weapons .. Are there any stats we can see please?

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:16 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Sunday March 14th, 2021 12:21:12 PM
After 24 hours when Haemir's spell ended his eyes seem different, previously they were dazzling blue but now there's no particular colour, more multi-coloured, bits of yellow, hazel, violet, green in fact they reflect every hue of the plains.

Fand also seems to have undergone a slight change, where as the parrot was a very dark blue, she now seems more black with a red blob (as if someone dripped paint on her). Maybe something to do with what happened or delayed from his rebirth from the cocoon!?

He tells Thorondir: "I was careful not to drink anything, it was strange I could feel a push from the Sargrass and it's stayed with me, kind of like after-burn when you stare at a bright light. It's fading now though, feels more like a memory"!?

He sits for a while remembering all the stories, visions and knowledge the Sentinels had been exposed to since their arrival here, trying to put it all together and make sense of the Sargrass' history.

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday March 15th, 2021 12:03:02 PM
'Lil's very much enjoyed her time in the city. She's got some shopping done, joined the WLA, and generally shed a few layers of stress built up from being out of her element for so long.

She's willing to pay her part of the 50gp if there's no party funds to cover it.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Monday March 15th, 2021 12:37:31 PM
Prior to leaving the pool he has made, Thorondir will summon some giant frogs. He implores them to vomit into the pool, to give the water resources it will need.

Listening to Haemir's experience as a tree, Thorondir decides to try it himself.
"Watch over me please. I will choose a tree that loves the desert soil." He tells Aewen and Haemir.
He casts Tree Shape and becomes an Acacia tree for 6 hours.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Monday March 15th, 2021 5:45:22 PM
"Of course, Fand and I have your back"!

Haemir enjoys Zayan too for the week he's there .. The ice stuff is interesting and so are the people. He's also happy to spend time on the Maiden so others can visit and checks in with his coven every couple of days for news.

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Monday March 15th, 2021 6:06:58 PM
After looking around the shops Caelwyn purchases a suit of armor (the same as his current set but magical) and matching magical longsword (either from the shops or catacombs).
---

(2k from party funds)

DM shane
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 2:29:42 AM
Caelwyn quickly learns that the armor is not actually ice, but an illusion cast upon the armor to make it look like it's ice.

betweenAkuno and Lil the reds and the yellows are both favorably inclined toward you all.

the speaker for the yellow gnomes speaks for his group to Lil. well you see, most of the..ehrm...larger folk hereabouts are workmen and manual laborers, we've not seen any larger folk with martial skill around these parts since the...erhm...troubles...but if you and your friends would be willing to help us I'm sure we could find something to...erhm...show those guys up.

to Akuno You are awfully cute, with your ears and all. You are a princess you say? what are your people? where do they come from? what are they called?

Thorondir gets some strange looks from the gnomes one of them even speaks up. It's easy to be an Dire Ice bears friend. Just don't struggle too much while he's devouring you, but you know you go right ahead and go talk to one, there's enough meat on your bones he may be full enough he won't come after us for a few days. The peanut gallery finds his little speech hilarious and little gnomish elbow bumps and booty whacks make their way through the patrons of the bar.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 3:02:57 AM
Sol purchases several spells and takes time scribing them into his spellbook.

((Actual list of spells is TBD))

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 1:15:25 PM
Thorondir shrugged off the gnomes comments, those who hunt for sport aren't high on his list. He is already back at the Maiden, and he comes out of the Tree Shape spell.

"Well Haemir, I see what you mean. The grasses do push back against the trees. I felt it in my roots. I thought an Acacia, not needing much water would fare better than a Silver Birch. But it isn't the lack of water, it is something else. They don't want us here, well us trees anyway. What is your take on the gnomes and their sport hunting. I don't think we can stop it, so I suppose we should be on our way? Wherever that is."

'Lil - (Carl) - 43/43 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 2:05:53 PM
'Lil ponders helpin' out these yellow gnomes. There's always space in her heart for the underdog. "I gotta talk about it with my dudes, and if it involves hunting beasts just for sport it's gonna be a hard no and I'll get some flack for even asking. Before you say the beasts put you in danger, I'll say the druid ain't gonna care. Something about the natural order...you get it. He might be inclined to ask the beasts to leave you alone."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 6:19:03 PM
To Thorondir: "Hmm, I think we should talk on this more. I need to think on this a while to process it, there's so much going on in my head" ...

As for hunts (both Thorondir and 'Lil): "I'm no fan of hunting for sport, in fact it makes me sick! But they did say they're necessary to protect their road crews and patrols, etc. I suspect there's some truth to that. I don't doubt your ability to persuade some of the local wildlife Thorondir, but what do you persuade them to do? They have nowhere else to go other than the tundra or plains n' the plains will be something totally different to them, in fact could lead to them being corrupted! I really don't know what to do"! Haemir is interested in hearing everyone's thoughts.

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 6:23:57 PM
"Check out my new armor" The paladin strikes a pose in his new ice glistening gear. It even refracts the light.

As for hunting he will go with the group decision.

DM shane
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 9:25:56 PM
OCC: wow sorry guys I don't guess I saw Stephens last post. I really blew that one. lets just pretend it didn't exist. Stephen is going to be moving to another game and Cazyle and I will be taking you on your way in the future. Sorry Thorondir. and all other parties involved.

Sol purchases some spells (remember to send your purchases to me as per the catacombs instructions. )

Thorondir finds that the Acacia tree fared no better in the resource-hungry sargrass plain.

Lil good ol' Lil, thank you for following a confused DM's lead even though it was a few posts too late.

Hamir brings up some problems that hunting may solve.

Caelwyn really likes his new armor.

it seems the crew has completed their business in Zaran City, the boat is resupplied, the party has new shiny things to play with and the city has been confirmed to still exist, indeed it's thriving! Are there any last-minute tasks or things you want to do before you all load up on the boat and leave?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 11:26:42 PM

Akuno isn't quite sure how to answer. It's not often anyone bothers to believe her. "Eeeyaah! Well, so you see, the ears are pretty cute, I know. I think its a royalty thing. I've not seen any other catgirls besides myself..."

She spends as much time as needed to weave a complex and totally inaccurate tale of her missed youth. The core truth is there. In her mind, someone born who develops magical powers useful to princesses.. must be a princess. Its the stories she was raised on, and she believes them fiercely. As far as hard truths go?

.."So.. I know they are out there. I can feel it. WHERE they are, I have no idea. The only way to catch their attention right now is to go out and make them notice me. And, well, rulership is servitude to common person, and I'm trying my best to learn that."

Last minute items? Please see Akuno's shopping list in the AM. (Sorry guys, tax season is super hard for me to stay as current as I can. At least I'm leveled up! Sorry to the party in advance, I didn't take haste at 3rd level.)

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 3:16:56 PM
OOC: Finally got my sheet updated to 6 and waiting on my Catacombs receipt.

***

'Lil spends the last of her days at the WLA. She's got her dues money ready and jumps into her training.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 3:50:44 PM
A day or two later Haemir approaches Thorondir.
"You know a long time ago there were trees here on the Plains, they only grew a few feet but they were here. Then a sickness came n' the old trees died but the new grass adapted n' thrived mutating" as he speaks he stares out over the grasses.

"What do you know about 'Wolds Blood'? It's a strange ole thing. I think of it like veins in a leaf, carrying nutrients, except they are in another realm. The Realm of Shadows which coexists or overlaps with us right here. In this other place there are rivulets n' entire rivers of Wolds blood - n' whereas Clerics gain spells from their Gods n' Druids draw spells from Nature itself"... He pauses and looks at Thorondir as if weighing up weather he can trust the druid with his secret. "My kind are sometimes called Blood Witches because on a mental and spiritual level, we reach into the Realm of Shadows and draw knowledge n' power from Wolds blood directly. We store some of the energy within us n' are then able to cast our spells on the fly. With me So far"?

"Here's where it gets strange .. Wolds blood holds knowledge n' power but is exceptionally dangerous! I remember once back in Hook city where it went wrong and the Blood drained me. One of the first times I did it. It's nasty stuff! I was sick for a few days after. If I were to draw some now n' mess up it would effect everyone within fifty foot of us, they wouldn't even know why but they would suddenly feel quite ill and potentially it could harm them too! That's why I always refresh my spells away from everyone. I can easily imagine Wolds blood being responsible for the sickness! I wasn't there but didn't Ma'am say something like that to you all? I dunno if it's nearer the surface here but maybe that's the push we felt?! It felt like something was trying to bend me to it's design! Bend or break is the way of nature right"?
---

(ref Q; When Haemir refreshes how does it compare to drawing Woods blood in Hook City or other places. Is it any easier? Does it feel any different?)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 7:35:08 PM
Sol has completed his shopping, and has a few new spells and scrolls to help the party as needed, and is very much looking forward to using them!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 10:43:07 PM
“Wolds Blood needs to be accessed with caution, though your analogy of the veins in a plant is spot on. Many plants you can access the sap for food or medical purposes. If not careful, the extraction can kill the plant. Likewise many animals suck the blood of a host. In either case the death of the source is in the long term detrimental. So must be true with Wolds Blood, extracting it incorrectly or taking too much will cause unpredictable damage. It is good you are careful, for the sake of us and the Wold.”

Finally Thorondir is able to discuss ecological implications with someone who understands. He is glad Haemir is here.

Talking to everyone:
“Finish what you need here and let me know if I can be of service. I am done with cities for a few more years.”
Thorondir spends time with Aewen and tends his whortle berry in his planter.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Thursday March 18th, 2021 1:27:13 PM
Haemir agrees with Thorondir and enjoyed the chat too.

"I see there's a play on in the city anyone fancy it"?

DM shane
Thursday March 18th, 2021 1:55:04 PM
ooc: excuse me, the internet went out last night and when I refreshed the page it posts the last thing I posted to this site.

Akuno enjoys flirting with the gnomes and telling them her tale of royalty. she at least has the right attitude for a royal. the gnomes agree that her ears are indeed cute.
OOC: preserver Ken I know this time of year is hard, it don't help that they put the tax date to May 17 or June 15 depending on where you are from.

Haemir shares with Thorondir some very closely held information about himself, and the structure of the world in general.

Sol enjoys his new shinies.

Thorondir rather than be horrified at the thought of a bloodwitch in his midst is overjoyed to finally have someone he can talk Thaumaturgic ecology with.
OOC: if you are done with cities are you staying on the boat?

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Thursday March 18th, 2021 7:37:04 PM
"Any of you guys that haven't joined a guild should before we leave here! There may not be another chance for a while. I can recommend my guild The Woldian League of Adventurers! They offer training that will help you live longer, there's enough party funds still for you to do all the training you need"!

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday March 18th, 2021 8:31:39 PM
'Lil's already signed on with the WLA. She's ready to go.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday March 18th, 2021 11:49:40 PM
"I'm just a druid, not an adventurer as you say. Like I have said, I am here to protect the Maiden and those who sail her. I can't see answering to a guild or league of adventurers. Following orders or doing combat training really doesn't soot me, I'll just keep learning from natural interactions if that is okay. I'm ready to sail on, but if someone is going to go up and deal with the gnomes and their hunting I best go along."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Friday March 19th, 2021 3:03:50 AM
Sol list's to Haemir.

"I had considered it, but the StarMages are more of a magical bent... I was wondering if they might be somewhat better for myself, though I would listen to any input any of you have about it."

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Friday March 19th, 2021 7:33:23 AM
Caelwyn heads off to check it out/or doesn't (OOC: I'll lead Casey to decide on return but here is where he joins if he does).

Rich. Subbing for Caelwyn
Friday March 19th, 2021 10:12:18 AM
Haemir briefly lays a reassuring hand on Sol's shoulder: "Sounds like you have things sewn up well my friend. Let me know if you need anything"!

To Thorondir: "I hear you brother, they have other training, research libraries n' all sorts. I'll gladly show you around if you wanna get a feel for the place? I just want us all to be the best we can be out here". He accepts everyone's path is different.
"I'll not mention it again but if you change your mind"...

He then looks for a temple of Gargul, knowing they're not major Bloodwitch fans he leaves Fand with the Maiden. Having been a follower for over a century it still grated that when his powers were thrust upon him (just before leaving Hook city), the fact they could potentially cause friction between him and some of Gargul's followers were he to openly admit them..! It was a shame they couldn't see past where his powers came from. Nevertheless they had saved his life 'beggars and choosers'.

He understood that he would have to continue to work hard (if not harder) before he could be more open and honest, but Haemir has known a few human Eyes all of their life. In fact they had even tried to recruit him a few times, but the pull to the sea had been too great back in his youth.

Knowing the score he isn't stupid enough to admit what he is and keeps a low profile. There are only a few souls in existence that actually know what he is and he has been cautious to tell his coven to remain secret. He will say some prayers and check out if there is any work they need help with or anything else the temple might need. He wasn't about to blindly switch allegiances just because something thrust these powers into his lap!

DM Cayzle - WLA Initiation
Friday March 19th, 2021 11:51:11 PM

Haemir is enthusiastic about urging his comrades to consider joi9ning an organization, like the Star Mages or the Sages' Guild, or especially the Woldian League of Adventurers.

'Lil has already signed on with the WLA. All she has left to do is to speak the vow.

Thorondir has no interest in these organizations. Perhaps someday the naturalist will find a group of like-minded people who have Mother Wold's best interests at heart.

Sol has considered both the WLA and the Star Mages. The Star Mages have the great advantage of being much less expensive, but lacks the intensive training and the amazing feats that the WLA bestows. The time has come to make a choice, at least for now ...
[OOC: If you would like my own opinions and advice, please feel free to email cayzle@cayzle.com.]

Caelwyn too has a choice to make ...

Well, at the least, here is a chance to learn a bit more, seeing as you are all invited to 'Lil's Enrollment Ceremony.

The WLA Chapterhouse here is actually both a tavern and a training facility. On the wall are the sigils that identify this place as WLA ground. The prices for food and drink are high, but the adventurers who come here have gold to burn -- the successful ones do, at least.

Inside, the chapterhouse leader, a Captain Jharom, welcomes you all into a spacious and well-appointed chamber. There are chairs lining the walls, except for a buffet along a far wall. Jharom gives a short speech about the WLA ... the way that adventurers serve to protect innocents and nations alike when guards and soldiers cannot ... the commitment to self-improvement and the ideal of heroes who are not so humble as to refuse to be the best that the Wold needs them to be.

There are a number of portraits around the walls of famous heroes of the League. Tahni Wyrmrider of the Bone Dragons, Restlin of the Iron Dragons, Tishe’ Weaver of the Keepers of the Vale, Bliss of Humbles Ford, to name a few.

Since 'Lil has already paid the dues [for a 6th level character, that's 3,500 gp preferred, or 1,000 minimum, let me know, please], it is time to induct her with the lifelong vow.

The Captain says, "Repeat after me."

"I, Lillian Sarramont, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it.”

[OOC: Please recite your vow in your post, please, 'Lil.]

Then the Captain presents 'Lil with her official WLA badge. "This means something, young champion," he says, "so wear it proudly."

After the ceremony, a few of the WLA vets who happen to be in residence mingle with you all, welcoming 'Lil, chatting with Haemir, making the sell to everyone else, talking about the truly amazing skills and feat training that the WLA offers, as well as the opportunities to do good and make a difference in the Wold. Also, the food and drink are delicious, and the bacon hors d'oeuvres are to die for.

[OOC: Anyone else want to join, or do anything else here in the city? Last call!]

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Saturday March 20th, 2021 10:55:14 AM

Akuno thinks about all the options available, and when Sol talks about the Star Mages, she is interested. She tugs his sleeves. "Ney ney! Sol! Heey. I'll make you a super special once in a lifetime offer. If YOU go join the Star Mages, I'LL escort you there and join up alongside you to keep you out of trouble. Its not everyday royalty offers to join in ones endeavors, Mr. Sol." She wriggles her eyebrows at the man, cat ears flicking at the same time. Are you really going to turn her down?

(I'd like to enroll up to the CL 5 if possible, but I don't know if the teach a class requirement comes before or after being accepted to Tier 2.)

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Saturday March 20th, 2021 1:07:51 PM
Before the ceremony, Caelwyn looks around the WLA chapterhouse, thinking of the Captain's words and the great deeds of the heroes whose images line the walls. He has already sworn his life to defend the innocent and combat evil in the Wold in Domi's name, and it would make perfect sense to become a part of this organization as well. "Capain, it would be my great honor to join the Woldian League of Adventurers."

If allowed, Caelwyn would like to take the oath alongside Lil.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Saturday March 20th, 2021 1:10:06 PM
Well now, it seems the Sentinels have decided to take their adventuring seriously by joining guilds and the like. Thorondir supposes that will add strength, but he is a bit worried too. He has seen mercenary groups let their power go to their head. He will have to be extra cautious looking out over the Sentinels in the future.

"Go do your training and join your guilds. I'll look after the Maiden and tend to my garden." Thorondir gestures to the potted whortle berry bush that he has put in a spot on the ship that will not be too much in the way. "I still have too much I need to study and practice without learning a new skill at the moment."

Thorondir will spend time while at the Maiden wildshaping into forms that are new to him. He will start as an Earth Elemental for a few hours, then after a brief rest he will try out the Air Elemental. He has already been a Water Elemental, but he is avoiding trying out the Fire Elemental. Hopefully, he can avoid flames while on the Sargrass.

Aewen flies about, hunting for her food as Thorondir gets in touch with the elements.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Saturday March 20th, 2021 1:22:04 PM
Haemir looks up at the portraits of hero's and smiles. He points to the one of Tishe’.

"I've met that one. She's really good good at weaving n' has been a great inspiration to me"!
Hmmm he thinks. Trying to remember quite wherever was. Was it a dreamwalk? The ghost something keeps coming to mind.

DM Cayzle - WLA Initiation d8=2 ;
Saturday March 20th, 2021 9:38:15 PM

Akuno asks Sol to join the Star Mages with her.

Caelwyn asks to join the Woldian League of Adventurers alongside Lil.

Thorondir, a nature-oriented person, is ready to leave the urban areas, and does not even deign to attend the WLA initiation of his friends. He stays at the boat, practicing natural arts.

Haemir, on the other hand, seems proud to stand up and witness his friends joining. He is glad to recall the story if meeting Tishe’ herself, even if the details are a bit fuzzy.

"Caelwyn, please recite your oath with 'Lil," the Captain asks. "But with your own name, of course."

After the ceremony, are Sol and Akuno headed to the Star Mages? Sol, what do you say?

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Sunday March 21st, 2021 1:11:07 PM
Caelwyn is proud to stand alongside Lill and speak his own oath when she has finished.

"I, Caelwyn Alterius, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it.”

He thinks about his oath to Domi, sworn years ago. This new vow would reinforce the old, providing him with new friends and resources to help defend the innocent of the Wold.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Sunday March 21st, 2021 8:20:05 PM
Curious about how the grasses survive with little to no rain, Thorondir changes into an Earth Elemental and moves beneath the ground. He is curious about the root pattern for different grasses, are some shallow to take up any moisture as soon as it hits the surface or are they deep to gather water from below? He assumes some grasses have shallow roots while other species have deep root systems, but he plans to find out. He also seeks out moisture in the ground. Does soil moisture increase as he goes down? Can he find groundwater deeper? He has lots of time, so he goes deep to see if a water table exists below the grasses. He also experiments with casting create water while underground, hoping to fill the pore spaces in the soil with water at the base of the root systems.

OOC: no worries about specifics, you don't need to research prairie ecosystems to answer my questions.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday March 22nd, 2021 3:38:56 PM
'Lil wasn't expectin' an actual ceremony, but she does her best to put on a brave face as she repeats the vow.

"I, Lillian Sarramont, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it." It's the first time she's spoken her surname out loud. She hopes her companions don't catch it as she's not big on being called anything other than 'Lil.

She takes the pin and affixes it to the bit of cloak visible from her front. Surprisingly, she does feel something. She chats with her new compatriots, wondering how many other of the Wold's heroes started out like this.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+1=20 ;
Monday March 22nd, 2021 4:09:54 PM
Haemir sees 'Lil's oath (Sense Motive:20 - wow rolled 19) and strangely picks up on her discomfort. Her doesn't indicate he's heard anything at all - her secret is safe with him.

Before they leave Haemir goes back to Gargul's temple. Determined to find a way to help, even if it's just import/export/merchant stuff. He says some prayers and makes his enquiries. Maybe a quick visit to the market again then he's pretty much done in Zayan.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Monday March 22nd, 2021 7:26:49 PM
Sol smirks at Akuno.

"Very well, let us sign up together. We can perhaps help one another in our training. It would be useful to have someone else to bounce ideas off of."

DM Cayzle - The Star Mages and other Errands
Monday March 22nd, 2021 11:55:14 PM

'Lil and Caelwyn speak their oaths proudly -- and are welcomed warmly into the WLA. The reception continues into the evening, and there is much revelry. The two initiates are invited to stay the night at the chapterhouse, and to jump into some intensive training the next day.

But the revels and the city proper hold no attraction for Thorondir, who instead finds deeply fascinating the study of an ecology that is a hybrid of the Sargrass, and here, on the border of Zaran City, that has a comparably large amount of water available. He investigates the way the system works, and in his delvings, finds a curious mole a-burrowing in the dirt. Maybe the mole has some insights for the naturalist? Sensing that there is no danger from Thorondir, the diminutive mammal shamelessly begs for any worms that have been turned up in the druid's passage through the ground.

The next day, Haemir visits the small temple of Gargul. In general, the people of the Southern Continent prefer to honor the local Powers, but wherever there are people gathered, the prayers to the God of Life and Death will be spoken.

Of course, witches do not wear symbols of their craft; they are not branded nor marked. Haemir does not wear a pointy hat, and the parrot is no giveaway. If someone notices the cauldron ... but such is not the case today. If Haemir does not introduce himself as a witch, he'll not find himself in poor regard.

And therefore, he is left to say his prayers in peace, and his offer of trade goods is well received. "My son," an old bald Eye of Gargul says to him, "we are always grateful for donations. Any goods you might want to share with us would be most appreciated!" How much does Haemir donate to the church?

Then, at the market, Haemir finds the perfect violin on display. Indeed, he feels a connection to it as soon as he lays eyes on it. He asks permission to try it out, and when he touches it, he feels a connection, an emotional connection, a sense, a communication of deep satisfaction. He makes the purchase, and has a solid intuition that this musical device is more than it seems, and will bear investigation.

Sol and Akuno follow some leads (the helpful folks at the WLA can surely do the trick) to locate the Star Mages representative here in Zaran City. "Very well, let us sign up together," says Sol. "We can perhaps help one another in our training. It would be useful to have someone else to bounce ideas off of."

The two casters learn that there is a wizard in a tower at the edge of the town who serves the needs of those who require advanced magical casting or training. It is an elderly gnome, named Zalatsar, who has seen the South through TWO migrations, it is said. You note a deep chill as you approach his tower; perhaps he misses the cold from before Zaran City was divorced from the realm of Ice Vein.

Inside, the tower is no less chilly. The old gnome, dressed in luxurious white furs, makes you welcome. "So, you want to join the Star Mages, eh? I'll take down your information and send it on in the next pouch to Hook City. It'll reach the mothership in New Elenna in a few weeks. Now, what's your name and class? Adventurer or freelance? What's your group name? Where are you based?"

Zalatsar explains the rules. "No evil magic or acts. No casting spells for free. You can cast in your group so long as you're getting a share of treasure."

He tests your capabilities and makes you cast spells. He sniffs when he learns that Akuno is just a sorcerer. "You know you are not allowed to advance past the Third Tier. Sorry, but that's the rules. You both qualify for Tier 2, that's 1,000 gp, and you have to come back in the afternoon to teach a class. I'll gather a few students for you to damage."

Sol and Akuno, please say that you will pay the fee, agree to the rules, and then describe your class. Make a Spellcraft or Know Arcana check as well, and list any spells you may cast as a demonstration.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20+9=23 ; d20+15=34 ; d20+15=32
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 4:43:27 AM

Akuno is happy to pay the fee, and doesn't seem to be worried about having a cap on her advancement. "Oh? A limit? Held down like a commoner? Left to toil just outside of greatness?, she twitches her tail once or twice in excitement. "Servitude is the essence of leadership after all."

Name and Class? "I'm Akuno Neko, Prrrincess Akuno Neko, and I'm a magical maiden without compare! 'Destined for greatness', is what you book wizards will be writing about me after I'm done here."

Akuno does a fine enough job talking about mechanics of magic. (Spellcraft 23) Its stuff she never bothered with until meeting Sol and 'Lil. Where she shined however, was in her biggest passions.

"There's more to magic than just casting it you know." With a huff, she starts displaying the various magical enhancements woven into her lacy frills. "The ability to create permanent magic is useful. A spell woven into equipment is more expensive, but it means that you wizards can just vary up your spells that much more." She taps her pretty black boots on the floor."If your boots levitate, you don't need to prepare that spell." She flips an elemental gem in the air and snatches it. "If you can break a gem to unleash an elemental, you don't have to spend six seconds summoning one." She passes the gem around, then collects it from the last student.

She then draws a pair of wands, one red and one white. "Of course, magic items aren't just about making your own spells in a can to save on magic economy and mental brainspace. If it were, we'd buy nothing but wizard scrolls and haste rods. Sometimes, just being able to use someone elses magic at a novice level is just as important as mastering your own." She waves the first wand around in the air, then suddenly points it at a front row student. "If a friends dying.." she pauses for effect, pointing the wand at a second student sitting next to the first, "...you don't have to wait on the healer if you can use the cure wand without them." She taps the white wand against her hand, activating it flawlessly and blowing the twinkly magic bits via kiss at the classroom. She then switches to the red wand, and a controlled flame erupts suddenly in her small hand. "And why should druids be the only ones to produce such an efficient flame? Its a magic weapon that lasts for minutes, can be used sparingly or all out, and allows us to fight from a safer range than scorching ray." (UMD 34 and 32)

She snuffs the magical flame and wraps up. "Learning magic for the sake of magic is great, especially for you wizards, who can literally learn every spell there is. I don't want you getting big heads, but its pretty amazing what you can do. But don't neglect versatility, economy, and emergency planning, especially if you plan to adventure." She twirls a finger through a lock of perfectly silky hair, then rests it behind a perky cat ear. "It's something we sorcerers understand perhaps a bit better than you do, because we don't always "have a spell for that." And sometimes, you might not either. And when that happens, knowing how to use magic you otherwise can't, or having a useful bauble, can save your life."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+5=9 ;
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 3:02:13 PM
Haemir donates a grand of gold/equipment (from his share) to the church, chats about some of the old Eyes he used to know (a few may be from before the human's time) and swaps news about the Sargrass if the cleric is interested.
"'Twas good meeting you honourable Eye. See you again next time we sail by". He says before leaving.

On the way back to the Maiden he starts to teach himself to play the violin (Perform:9). He's a beginner so it's not fantastic, but at least being on his own spared everyone from occasional novice scrapes!

Back on board he greets Fand and checks all is well.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 4:27:28 PM
Casting Speak with Animals, Thorondir decides to talk to the mole.
"Hey friend, of course. Let us hunt worms together."

Thorondir will glide through the ground as an Earth Elemental, collecting worms as he goes. He puts them within reach of the mole.

"There you go, that should fill your belly." After the mole eats its fill he adds "Tell me about your home here, the ground here seems very nice compared the deep in the Sargrass plains. You have chosen a home wisely. What other creatures are about? Please let me know if there is something more I can help you with."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours) d20+14=33 ; d20+7=22 ;
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 7:49:09 PM

((Knowledge Arcana - 33, Profession Teacher - 22))

Sol let's Akuno go first, and listens closely to her, and what the Guild Member says.

"Very well... I am Elijah Solomon, known as Sol. I am a Wizard, and am currently a member of the adventuring group, the Sargrass Sentinels, based out of New Rattledam."

He doesn't embellish much about who he is or his skills, and simply let's his abilities and knowledge speak for himself. He will show off a few decent spells, including Hold Person, Magic Missile and Bull's Strength.

"Magic, is a fickle force. But can be marshalled to do as you command with proper training and practice. It is an ally that you sometimes have to bend to your will. But beware that you do not allow it to get the best of you. If you do not shape it to your will, it will do as it wants, and that is rarely good for you. You must not be afraid, and be safe in the knowledge that your skills can always advance."

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 11:15:05 PM
'Lil's happy to spend the night with her new friends. She spends the next day workin' on her soft skills. She wonders if maybe she should branch out more, though. Before she was the only one of her dudes who could talk without puttin' a foot in their mouth. Haemir came back all talkative, though.

She'll accompany Akuno to the Star Mage's tower if she's able, but the place don't seem as welcoming to non-wizards as the WLA is. It's unlikely she's welcome, which is just as well as the Star Mage's policy about castin' spells for free is pretty much the opposite of what she's supposed to do as a priest of Domi.

As much as she's enjoyed her stay, she finds herself itchin' to get back to the grass. "That's new," she thinks to herself. It's the first time she looked forward to settin' out into the wilderness.

DM Cayzle - Final Business in Zaran City
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 11:55:04 PM

Akuno and Sol are both impressive in their ways! Their classes are instructive and demonstrate their expertise. One of the students approaches Sol after the class and asks him to come back often to teach here!

[OOC: Please both accept roleplay awards of 250 xp each.]

Haemir wraps up his business with the priest of Gargul by offering a very generous donation. "Your support of the church does you great credit, my son," says the priest. "Next time you are in toen, please visit me. I'm Brother Wierwood."

[OOC: You have two choices for contributions when you are playing at my table. (1) remove your donation from your wealth. Eventually you will come back up to your WBL as the party gains loot. The effect of your generosity is short lived. OR (2) Track your donations under your wealth on your PC sheet. Treat it like dues or a magic item. The effect of the donation is log-lived. Let me know if this policy is unclear.]

Thorondir's new mole friend loves the worms and in fact shows great affection for Thorondir. She clearly wants to go with you and let you feed her worms on the regular. She has lots to say about root systems and clay vs sandy soils and water tables and such like. Do you want a new animal pal?

[OOC: You can treat this animal as a roleplay companion, if you like, and it will duck for cover when there is danger and as a rule not be subject to damage.]

'Lil is welcome to observe at the Star Mage's Tower, but must remain silent. Also, her shopping in the Catacombs is a great success (purchase approved).

OOC: We'll assume that any other pending Catacombs purchases are received at this time.

That's it for the party's stay in Zaran City! You all converge on your ship the next morning and make preparations to sail off. Which way are you headed? And, by the way, do you have a 5 ft sq map of the ship? How is a DM to plan for pirates boarding or landsharks attacking if there is no map? Muahaha!

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 8:14:34 AM
'Lil's honestly a little surprised that Akuno's hijinks don't illicit some kinda haughty reaction from the Star Mages, but realizes that snooty magic types are pretty much at home here. She's happy for her friends, though. To each their own, yea?

They had agreed to let their crew have some shore leave while they were here. 'Lil's sure to make certain they got it before it's time to head out. They're a good crew and deserve it. Domi help them if they start anything while they're here, though...

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 9:00:03 AM
Haemir is looking forward to setting sail, but with no news from his coven (indicating problems anywhere) or a mission he has no suggestions:
"Time to vote, does anyone need to go anywhere or have any suggestions Sentinels"?

(Note to Cayzle. I'd like to keep the donation to Gargul's temple on my WBL (option 2), this feels more of a sacrifice than just donating my share of party funds. However, this puts me over my WBL, so I have emailed a proposal to further strip my legacy item of abilities to make this even possible).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 12:20:09 PM
Thorondir gathers up a handful of worms and picks up his new friend. "I'll call you Talpid unless you have another name you prefer?" He carries his new friend and the worms up to his planter with the chortle berry bush. He digs up some of the soil around the plant and puts the worms into the planter where they start to burrow down. He calls down Aewen takes turns speaking in mole and eagle. It must sound strange to those around him.
"Aewen, this is Talpid. He is our friend, so please don't eat him." turning to the mole "Talpid, this is Aewen. She seems very scary, but she is my friend. I have asked her not to eat you. In fact, if another animal threatens you she will attack it and protect you. I have made a home for you in this soil with a bush. The worms are in there for you to eat, please be careful with the bush. I need it to survive, but you are a master soil engineer. I'm sure with you and the worms the bush will be very healthy."

Thorondir seems very pleased. He might not be able to fix the whole Wold, but this part of the Wold seems good. He isn't sure what his friends accomplished in the city, but he doubts it can be any better than what he was able to do.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 4:22:22 PM
Akuno takes a moment to look at the library and appreciate her new star heart. She nudges Sol. "The benefit for you here is amazing. All these spells you can scribe now, for just the cost of your inks!" Most of it is greek to her, and she doesn't get much help since she's not an prepared caster anyways, but she was happy to be around some other people who could teach her a bit more about magic than she knew already. "Ney, Sol. This star heart lets me cast a new spell like its one I know. That's pretty neat, but I have no idea what to pick. My first level spells are Unseen Servant, Roses Temperate Control, Alarm, Floating Disk, and Color Spray. I don't need Mage Armor because of our wand. Maybe pick a good one for me?" She waits patiently, and follows his advice.

(applying the skill ranks to my char sheet tonight)

After things die down at the school, Akuno is exhausted from having to expend effort for a change. The walk to the ship is a bit longer than she likes, so she falls into her floating disk, arranges her pillows, and lets her unseen servant drag her the rest of the way back home. As she floats up to the ship, she finds Thorondir looking quite pleased with himself.

"Hello!" She waves exuberantly, and when the servants don't (and cant) scoot her forward any faster, she finally tumbles out of her magic litter and bounces up to the druid. "Did you have a good day today Thornidir? It was pretty interesting for my part. I got a pretty bauble that lets me cast a new spell that Sol picked out. I also got to teach a class on using items to a bunch of wizards who think they are better than me. Do you know where we are going next? I'm ready to add to my legend, seeing those stuffy book-mages got me all fired up!" She swishes her Produce Flame wand through the air, burninating mock bad guys left and right.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 8:58:19 PM
Thorondir smiles broadly at Akuno. “I had the best day ever, I made a new friend. Meet Talpid!” He holds up the mole proudly.

DM Cayzle - Final Business in Zaran City
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 11:37:10 PM

'Lil is a little surprised that Zalatsar the star mage is not snootier. Perhaps being far from the main headquarters, or with the wisdom of centuries, Zalatsar is just more laid back?

'Lil alerts the crew that it is time to set sail.

Haemir hears from his coven after a little delay. Something about misplacing the main cauldron, but all is fine now.

He calls on his friends to weigh on on weighing anchor.

Thorondir is happy to show off his new friend. The mole is not sure that she likes being hoisted above ground, but trusts in her new friend. And in all the worms he has provided so far. Note that the new pal, named Talpid, is a female. She blinks when introduced to the eagle, but she also seems relatively fearless for a mole -- she only cowers when directly looked at.

Akuno shows off her new toys and lore to Sol and Thorondir. She seems quite delighted as well.

But the question still remains, as the crew take their positions and everyone has returned to the Maiden. Where to?

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15
Thursday March 25th, 2021 12:00:37 AM
Caelwyn is happy to have become a member of the WLA, and is eager to continue on their journey. He frowns as he examines a map. "Back to Rattledam, perhaps? I feel like we ought to be checking in there regularly..."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+15=23 ;
Thursday March 25th, 2021 12:09:39 PM
When Haemir discovers the chortle berry bush he grins, feeling inspired he reaches inside his bag of holding and deposits a fair few seeds on a shelf. He begins potting up a few herbs and pretty soon the shelf running around the lower deck looks like the inside of a greenhouse.

When introduced to Talpid he asks Fand to grab a few worms for him and allows Thorondir to introduce them all.
Haemir doesn't speak with animals like the druid does but makes an attempt at making the new addition to the Maiden feel welcome (Animal Handling:23).

"I vote for New Rattledam, unless anyone knows of any other places for us to search for"!?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Thursday March 25th, 2021 4:50:29 PM
(Placeholding for Sol to either pick or decline to pick Akunos spell.)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday March 25th, 2021 4:51:58 PM
"Talpid is a female, which of course was evident as I held her up for you to meet. She prefers to be in her burrow, which is here in my potted berry plant. She can sense vibrations, so I will ask her to let me know if anything feels wrong with the Maiden as we go along. Otherwise, she will eat her worms and help the small garden habitat that I have. Please don't harvest these berries. I will use them to enchant with as goodberries. That means they will each provide a complete meal and do some healing. I must say, I made a small pond up on the mountain, planted a tree at the edge and summoned some frogs that I hope helped to add some plant spores into the area. Then, I have created this small garden and have a mole to help tend it. I'm not sure what was going on with you and your guilds, but I have had some very productive days."

Thorondir is content, and Aewen is happy too. She is sitting in the eagles nest above the mast and eating something she caught.

"I don't care where we go, we could stay here and I could work to stock my pool with fish."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Thursday March 25th, 2021 7:09:14 PM
Sol will think when asked by Akuno for his advice.

"Colour Spray is a spell that has always served me well. And yes, I will be making use of the books here so I can add additional spells to my spellbook. I would hope that eventually I could have every spell ever created appear in my spellbook, or perhaps craft my own... would that not be a wonderful think? 'Sol's Fire and Forget Chain Lightning' or something like that..."

Sol then gets distracted into his own mind, apparently thinking of all the different interesting spells he could create, or would if he had the time.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday March 25th, 2021 9:27:18 PM
"Yea, we need to check back with the Rattledam folks. Make sure the place is still standing and whatnot."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Thursday March 25th, 2021 11:14:14 PM

Akuno frowns. "Hey! I told you I had Color Spray already! Aren't you listening to me?" She frowns again, so hard her eyebrows look like they'll touch her nose. "Don't tell me you're going to blow me off because I'm a sorcerer, just like those snooty mages?"

She settles on Magic Missile.

Later, when its time to decide where to go next, she's also for a trip back to anywhere they'll give her a quest.

DM Cayzle - Leaving Zaran City
Friday March 26th, 2021 8:51:23 AM

A consensus develops, after a fashion, and the destination is selected.

The Maiden sets out, and the wind is fair and hot coming off the Sargrass Plains.

You travel for a few hours, and now you are deep in the grasses. The city is invisible in the distance.

Please make perception checks, and alert your DMs to any ability or such that would affect your perception beyond the skill check.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+1=17 ; d20+8=16 ;
Friday March 26th, 2021 9:14:25 AM
Haemir is on deck (Perception:17 - nothing changes unless it's dark - in which case darkvision:120').

Fand is probably flying. (I believe she flies faster than the ship so probably fluctuates between scouting and resting ([i]Perception:16).

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp d20=15 ;
Friday March 26th, 2021 9:52:37 AM

Akuno sits at the edge of the ship, her feet dangling over the side. She got an unseen servant squeezed under her arms, like a favorite teddy bear. She was still a little grumpy that Sol hadn't listened to her. "Jeez, that guy, Edward." Edward was her unseen servant, he hadn't had a name until this moment, and it knew somehow, that its name was going to be subject to Akuno's whims.

She looks at her star heart, it was pretty cute. She had chosen one shaped like a little red key. As she turns it over in her hand, something in the distance catches her eye for just a second, maybe? (Perception 14)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=25 ; d20+10=28 ;
Friday March 26th, 2021 11:45:08 AM
Thorondir spends each morning (6 hours) in eagle form, flying with Aewen and hunting if there is game. The rest of the day, he spends aboard the Maiden tending his small garden and looking about across the grasses. Aewen spends that time typically in the eagle's nest (a crows nest I made at the top of the mast but named it eagles nest for obvious reasons?). Talpid, spends his time in the soil eating worms.

Perception Thorondir 25
Perception Aewen 28
Tremorsense Talpid the Mole

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d20+12=23 ;
Friday March 26th, 2021 10:57:22 PM
Perception: 23

'Lil continues being surprised with herself by enjoying being back in the grass on her boa...ship. It's a ship, not a boat.

She spies Akuno pouting again and decides to join her. "Hey dude," she says as she plops her legs off the side of the ship. "Who's Edward? A boy you met back in Zaran?" It's a tease, but she delivers it with fake genuineness.

DM Cayzle - Leaving Zaran City
Friday March 26th, 2021 11:58:18 PM

Haemir is on deck, and Fand is flying.

Akuno enjoys the scenery as it goes by, thinking of her new toy and the unfair outrage of those who are unjustly ignored.

'Lil tries to cheer up Akuno.

Keen-eyed Thorondir is flying with Fand and Aewen.

The ship has not been too long underway, and is navigating around an out-thrust spur of the Crystal Mountains.

'Lil, looking at the horizon, sees a lone gnome, incapacitated or dead, lying on the grounds where the stone thrusts out and the grass is sparse. You can tell it's a gnome by the pointy red hat, common in Zaran City. The body is maybe 600-800 feet from you at this point.

With the advantage of altitude, Thonorondir and his fine feathered friend can see more. They see a group of gnomes racing away from the downed gnome. Are they afraid of their fallen comrade? Or is there something dangerous that you have not perceived from the vicinity of the Maiden?

If you wish to sail in, you will not be able to approach closer than a couple hundred feet of the downed gnome, seeing that as you approach the rocky outcroppings, the soil is too shallow to support the abundance of plant life that the druidwood vessel requires to avoid "running aground."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour (duration - 5 hours)
Saturday March 27th, 2021 6:08:02 PM
Sol has been keeping to himself, reading his spellbook and trying to ensure he's learned everything he can from Zaran City, although they've left, he's trying to ensure he doesn't have to go back...

Because of this he doesn't notice anything untoward.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=14 ; d20+10=29 ;
Sunday March 28th, 2021 7:31:12 PM
Thorondir looks to Fand and motions back to the Maiden. Squaking at Aewen he says "Quickly, lets fly above the gnome and see what has happened." They move at quad speed towards the downed gnome, keeping about 100 feet above the ground. (240'/round Thorondir and 320'/round Aewen) They should get there in 2-4 rounds.

Perception Thorondir 14
Perception Aewen 29

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Sunday March 28th, 2021 10:58:15 PM
Fand is unable to see anything but notices Thorondir nod back to the Maiden. She can't report what she doesn't see, but something has clearly caught the druids attention. Keeping pace with Aewen she allows concern to radiate through her empathic link with Haemir, who looks up suddenly. Dropping the rope he was about to secure he strides to the front of the Maiden.

Thomas the XO and ships pilot looks at Haemir with a questioning look and receives the reply:
"Slow the Maiden Thomas, somethings up"..!

Closing his eyes Haemir takes a deep breath he concentrates activating 'Remote Viewing': - clairaudience/Clairvoyance for one round (as SLA 640' range) and takes a better look at the stone that thrusts out in the distance.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Monday March 29th, 2021 12:56:22 AM

Akuno pops up to her feet. "Boys? The only boy I've given any notice to at all was that scruffy mutt Bigby, and that was just because I had to make sure he didn't drool on me. Edward he is a gentleman servant. My need is his joy and pleasure." She pats the unseen servant.

Edward, aware as an unseen servant can be, has a vague concept of joy and pleasure. He wasn't sure that he agreed hauling Akuno around was either of those things.

-------------------

Somethings up? Akuno starts gathering her items up. She uses the Mage Armor wand on herself, and anyone else who needs it. (Sol and Haemir? Confirm if you need Mage Armor.)

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday March 29th, 2021 9:38:39 PM
"Apologies, your highness," she chuckles, even though she's not. She's enjoying the moment until she sees the downed gnome. "Ah blast it all. Put your war face on, dude. We got casualties." 'Lil ain't got much to do for prep before battle other than pray. [b]"Domi," she starts out loud, "I pray my dudes and I'll do you proud. If you wants to watch over us, I'd rightly appreciate it."

When she's about a minute away from the gnome she casts a bless on anyone who can squeeze in, then also casts a bull's strength on herself.

Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=12 ;
Monday March 29th, 2021 9:49:22 PM
Caelwyn, scanning the horizon, picks up on Thorondir's sudden movement, as well as Haemir's concern. He instinctively reaches for his longbow and an arrow, and begins looking around to see what may be happening. "Haemir, what is it? Has Thorondir spotted something?"

Perception: 12

The Saga of the Dead Gnome

DM Cayzle - Leaving Zaran City
Monday March 29th, 2021 11:31:06 PM

Sol has had his nose in a book, ignoring all. He remains oblivious.

Haemir orders the Maiden to slow, and then, the DM presumes, to come as close as the grass permits. This brings the ship to a distance of 200 ft from the fallen gnome, which everyone can now see.

'Lil wants to get closer and to cast some prep spells. She tells her friends that there is a "casualty" on the ground.

Speaking of spells, Akuno preps for trouble with mage armor to those who request it.

Thorondir and friends fly over, above the gnome lying on the ground.

Caelwyn sees Thorondir fly off and gets ready for missile fire. Note that you remain a long ways away -- at 200 ft distance, there are range penalties, depending on weapon. He asks what Thorondir has seen.

Haemir does not know, so he uses a special ability to find out.

Here is what Thorondir and Haemir find out: There is a path on the rocky ground between the mountains and the grasslands. All around are rocky outcrops and patches of ice and snow, especially in the shadows.

The gnome is lying in the path, 200 ft from the ship. He has not moved. Thorondir sees that the gnome is wounded, either unconscious or dead. Likely dead.

Far ahead on the path, you have glimpsed a group of other gnomes fleeing. At the moment they have passed out of sight on the path, deeper into the rocky terrain.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=17 ; d20+10=29 ;
Monday March 29th, 2021 11:37:59 PM
If it is possible to get close enough this round, Thorondir dives down and when he is within 40 feet of the downed gnome he casts 'Stabilize' on it. He then pulls up, trying to stay aloft.

Aewen circles, looking for any other source of danger.
Perception 17 Thorondir
Perception 29 Aewen

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+8=19 ;
Tuesday March 30th, 2021 8:18:51 AM
Haemir nods to Akuno and takes out his crossbow, loading it whilst the princess plants a mage armor on him. He thanks her and follows up with a barkskin on both of them.

As Caelwyn joins him he says:
"Yes, good spot. There's a gnome 200 ft ahead, can't tell if he's alive or not but Thorondir is checking. Looks like there's another group too, I'm not sure if they're fleeing"...!?

Haemir activates another round of his remote viewing, this time picking a spot where he thinks the other gnomes are.

Meanwhile Fand circles the opposite way around the rocks to the other birds (Perception:19).
---

Active spells:
Bless (cast by 'Lil)
Mage Armor (from Akuno's wand)
Barkskin
Remote Viewing (2/6).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None
Tuesday March 30th, 2021 5:00:28 PM
Sol will finally look up from his book, once the boat stops.

"What is going?"

He looks to see the Gnome.

"Oh... is he alright? Can we heal him?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d20+12=14 ;
Tuesday March 30th, 2021 11:18:27 PM
'Lil goes to follow the front line in, then sees Caelwyn with his bow and realizes she is the front line. She's missing Grindar, that's for sure.

Still, gotta do what ya gotta do. Once the ship's as close as it can get, 'Lil jumps out and starts making her way to the gnome. She double-moves, not wanting to full out charge blindly into an ambush.

Perception: 14

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Tuesday March 30th, 2021 11:19:46 PM
Akuno considers her contributions from here and decides there's not much. She can't really back up Thorondir, and she's not got much way to help the fleeing gnomes from this range.

She just waits on the ship for now.

DM Cayzle - Gnome in the Wilds d100=4 ;
Tuesday March 30th, 2021 11:39:05 PM

Thorondir hovers 40' above the gnome and tries to stabilize him. Alas, he is dead. Freshly dead.

[OOC: How about some Fly checks for a hover, or do you have the Flyby attack feat?]

No signs of danger from those in the air.

Haemir also casts and gets ready. He scries again. But the fleeing gnomes are likely a quarter mile away by now ... [OOC: DM rolls ... 04] ... Sorry, you do not see them. Maybe you are looking in the wrong spot, maybe they are hiding?

Sol looks up and asks what is going on!

'Lil hops off the ship and heads closer.

Akuno ... is still working on a plan.

Verbal Map
Gnome -- 0 ft distance from gnome
Thorondir and fliers -- hovering 40 ft above gnome
'Lil -- 120 ft from the gnome
Everyone else -- 200 ft away, on the ship.

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Wednesday March 31st, 2021 9:19:28 AM
Haemir mutters an incantation and speaks loud enough for those on the Maiden to hear, 'Lil however, hears the words as if Haemir was whispering in her ear:
"It's too late for the gnome, be careful there are pockets of snow hidden in the shade"...
Snow meant water which attracted monsters - this could get ugly real fast if it wasn't already!
---

Active spells:
Bless (no longer active - Lil took the effect with her) :-)
Mage Armor (from Akuno's wand)
Barkskin

Casts: Message

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday March 31st, 2021 12:05:03 PM
*I'm pretty sure bless doesn't move with me. It just affects allies that were within 50' when I cast it.
***

Snow? Were they close enough to Zaran and the mountains for there to be snow on the ground? They're still be the mountains, so probably, right? She looks back, wonderin' why she's alone, then remembers Thorondir's up there. She ain't ready to accept the gnome's dead without someone gettin' in there and making sure. She makes a mental note to prepare a deathwatch spell from now on. She casts a detect magic spell as she walks, hopeful it'll help her detect a possible ambush.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+6=22 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+10=16 ;
Wednesday March 31st, 2021 6:33:58 PM
Thorondir will fly down as low as necessary to look for tracks around the dead gnome, landing if necessary. He asks Aewen to stay high 80' and alert him if she sees a creature that isn't in their party approach.

Survival 22
Perception 12

Aewen Perception 16

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=9 ; d20+14=31 ;
Wednesday March 31st, 2021 6:52:21 PM
Sol keeps an eye out for anything that he might be able to spot, or any signs of magical interference with anything.

((OoC: Perception - 9, Knowledge (Arcana) - 31))

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Wednesday March 31st, 2021 11:26:50 PM

Still a little unsure, Akuno goes ahead and readies for trouble. She casts blur on herself.

Akuno's Effects.

Blur
Mage Armor
Bless
Barkskin

Bloodline Arcana: Whenever you cast a spell with a range of “personal,” you gain a luck bonus equal to the spell’s level on all your saving throws for 1 round. (So +2)

DM Cayzle - Gnome in the Wilds
Thursday April 1st, 2021 2:34:10 AM

Oddly, Caelwyn, Haemir, Sol, and Akuno are fine with 'Lil marching into danger all by herself -- well, with Thorondir wheeling and circling safely overhead.

Haemir, in a Plains mindset, worries about all the snow. But here on the very edge of the Plains, the ecology is different, and water is more abundant.

'Lil moves 60 ft closer, and is now only 60 ft away. 'Lil, please accept a hero point.

Thorondir is about 10 feet over the dead gnome. He sees that the ground is disturbed, as if newly plowed by an enthusiastic but drunk farmer.

Take a look at this map. Note the key for terrain.

The Gnome's body is at G.
Thorondir is circling and is at T.
'Lil, IF you enter the map, you'll start move near square A-9.

Please DO say where your flying pals are, both by map coordinate and by elevation.

We're playing round by round at this point, my friends.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 19 / CMD 17 - 26/26 Hp
Thursday April 1st, 2021 10:01:17 AM
Akuno peers at the ground below the ships bow. She doesn't like the idea of going down there when up here was perfectly safe and not itchy at all.

But 'Lil was starting to get really far away. "Get the rope, servant. It's time to go."

Then she climbs to the edge of the ship and activates her boots of levitation.

Akuno Move: To ship edge.
Akuno Standard: Activate Boots of Leviation.

Servant Move: Fetch rope from Handy Haversack.
Servant Move 2: Follow Akuno to ship edge.

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+8=11 ; d20+8=22 ;
Thursday April 1st, 2021 11:01:59 AM
Haemir's head is all over the place and confused about the cleric running off and ignoring the warning. He grins though, it was hard to find fault when she displayed such bravery and it was very rare for 'Lil to act without thought. Perhaps she saw something he didn't? Either way his friend was on her own and he wasn't about to leave her.
"Crew, weapons ready but stay on the Maiden"! The Sentinels could look after themselves - the crew not so much.

Leaning over the edge, he notes a fair drop and steps back seeming to falter, then muttering something arcane he tumbles over the edge of the Maiden and out of sight. An eagle with dark red feathers takes to the air...

Meanwhile, Fand circles around and glides along side 'Lil (Fly:11 if needed?):
"What's the plan dear"? She asks scanning ahead (Perception:22).
---

Spells:
Bless (no longer active - Haemir exited area)
Barkskin (+3 natural)
Mage Armor (from Akuno's wand)
Beast Shape 1 (round 1 - grants fly:30').

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=27 ; d20+10=22 ;
Thursday April 1st, 2021 5:03:30 PM
Thorondir will fly in the direction the disturbance suggests, looking for the cause. He gains altitude, and is about 50 feet high.

Perception 27
Perception Aewen 22

DM Cayzle - Gnome in the Wilds
Thursday April 1st, 2021 11:15:53 PM
Akuno and Haemir get closer, both avoiding the ground in their own ways.

[OOC: feel free to specify your grid coordinates when you enter the map.

Thorondir continues to circle but gains altitude.

[OOC: Are you guys seeking to make this an aerial campaign? We can do that, just askin'!]

[OOC: Awaiting more posts!]

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday April 2nd, 2021 3:15:26 AM
Sol heads down with Lil. After all there may be back up needed, and arrives at A9.

He casts Mage Armour on himself.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d20+7=24 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=8 ; d8+5=12 ; d8+5=12 ; d8+5=13 ; d8+5=11 ;
Friday April 2nd, 2021 11:31:54 AM
I swear I posted yesterday! Maybe I forgot to hit submit again...

***

"Plan is to check on the gnome, then figure out step 2."

'Lil can make it there in one round w/ a double move, but she's brave, not stupid. 'Lil continues forward at a steady pace, ready to stab anything what needs stabbing.

***

Move: Proceed 30' a round towards the gnome
(Forgot the +4 str from Bull's Strength in all the to-hit rolls)
Standard: readied attack hits AC 26 for 12 damage

AoO w/ combat reflexes prerolls:

Hit nat 20 (confirm 17) for 12 (25 if crit)
Hit nat 20 w/ nat 1 confirm for 11 damage

Edited note to new DM Cayzle: I'm building 'Lil with some reach cleric traits. Her primary weapon is Maya, a +1 longspear w/ 10' reach. I typically roll a few AoO for use w/ combat reflexes just in case, but carry the rolls over instead of rolling new each round. As a for example, let's say I make 1 standard attack and pre-roll 3 opportunity attacks. If none of the AoO are used, the first one becomes my standard attack next round. That way I'm not throwing away d20s, good or bad. It's the way I've done it so far, but you're the DM and I can change it if that doesn't jive with you.

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+8=10 ;
Friday April 2nd, 2021 5:58:26 PM
Fand notes 'Lil exercising caution and would offer to check the gnome herself but she's no healer. She swoops up circling around above and settles for being the cleric's eyes in the air (Perception:10) 70' above 'Lil.

Haemir flaps (the ship is 200' feet away so single movement last round and double this round puts Haemir 90' nearer) as fast as he can.
---

Spells:
Barkskin (+3 natural)
Mage Armor (from Akuno's wand)
Beast Shape 1 (round 2 - grants fly:30').

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d3=3 ; d20+10=27 ;
Friday April 2nd, 2021 6:09:57 PM
Thorondir will land on H6, and begin to cast Summon Nature's Ally III. He will ask earth elementals to appear next to the gnome. (3 earth elementals are summoned)

Perception Aewen 27, who is flying above Thorondir

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Friday April 2nd, 2021 9:49:38 PM

Akuno lets her levitation spell bring her slowly down off the ship. She ties the rope to her unseen servant.

"Forward." With a lurch, Edward drags the Akuno-kite forward 20ft. She pops in at A8.

Blur: 59/60 Rounds
Mage Armor: 1 Hour
Levitate: 28/30 rounds
Barkskin: 599/600 rounds
Unseen Servant: 12 Hours (-whatever time of day it is)

DM Cayzle - Dead Gnome in the Wilds
Monday April 5th, 2021 11:26:30 PM
[OOC: Holy crap, I missed a post last week! Really sorry, friends. Life is complicated for me these days. But we'll make it a five DM post week this week for sure!]

'Lil and Thorondir pause (per DM fiat) for their friends to catch up.

Thorondir lands on H6 and begins casting. His creatures will appear next round (please specify the map coordinates at which they will appear.)

Sol arrives on the scene, next to (and below) Akuno.

From the edge of the map, 'Lil moves 30 ft closer to the gnome. She notes that the body is on a steep incline next to a chasm. You did not note a map coordinate, so the DM places you!

Akuno levi-drags to A8, hovering some distance above ground -- HOW FAR UP PLEASE? Note that in combat, directing your unseen servant is, I believe, a move action.

In eagle form, Haemir flies over. A Run action would do the trick. And Thorondir and 'Lil are waiting for everybody. Haemir arrives on the map at about the same time as Akuno. ALTITUDE please! Your DM places you on the map at A7.

This terrain is unfamiliar to you, and perhaps unnerving. There is water out in the open, albeit frozen. The soil is rocky and the soil shallow, where it is not covered in windswept snow. It is cold. If you had to spend hours out here, you would worry about exposure. How odd that just a mile into the Plains, the weather is above freezing, and growing warmer.

And the map!

[OOC: I think there was a request for edit access to the map? Call me old school, but you can use coordinates to say where you go, and I will edit the map. Thanks!]

If your bound companion creature is a fighting beast, please specify map locale. If it is RP only, then no worry.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d20+9=20 ; 2d6(4+4)=8
Tuesday April 6th, 2021 9:34:38 AM
With her friends by her, 'Lil takes the lead in approaching the gnome. Maya remains ready to stab. She don't like how that gnome is on an incline into a big'ol chasm.

"Hey Akuno, think you could get your feet dirty and use that floating disc thing over there, just in case he falls?" She points to I13. "Sometimes nobility's gotta sacrifice for the common folk, right?"

If Akuno does, 'Lil will channel positive energy rather than risk moving him. If she won't or can't, 'Lil will reach out and drag the gnome onto the road.

That's all assuming she can't tell if the gnome is obviously dead (heal check 20). If he's obviously dead, she'll just reach and drag him back onto the road w/o bothering Akuno.

***

Move: Proceed 30' a round towards the gnome, ending at H12
Standard: IF the gnome is obviously dead (his head is turned around backwards, for example), reach from the road and pull him onto it. IF he's not obviously dead, wait to see if Akuno helps w/ her disc. If she does, channel positive energy for 8 healing. If she doesn't, reach and pull him onto the road. If applicable, readied attack hits AC 26 for 12 damage

AoO w/ combat reflexes prerolls:

Hit nat 20 (confirm 17) for 12 (25 if crit)
Hit nat 20 w/ nat 1 confirm for 11 damage

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp d20=13 ;
Tuesday April 6th, 2021 1:06:55 PM
(Dear DM, this is an if/then post. Please just delete the appropriate part, or if you don't wanna, I will once I see your answer to Carls question about the gnome.)

Looking down on the people below her, Akuno is filled with a bit of excitement. She was always so short and small, she was eternally looking up at people. Now the table is turned, and nothing could reach her up here! Bring on the hordes! Bring out the monsters! Bring her the worst! Bring ....

what was 'Lil saying? 'Lil needs her on the icky ground? After she finally pulled off her "Flying Kite" maneuver! She exhales loudly, somehow sighing over her entire twenty foot descent. She glares at the gnome, but then her features soften into something like compassion. "Well, I understand what you want, but that disk doesn't work that well when dealing with altitudes and uneven terrain. It disappears if I go a few feet off the ground, so someone has to watch out for me okay?"

The unseen servant stands unseen, holding a rope tied to a catgirl, and wishing he were anywhere but here.

Move: Descend 20ft
Standard: Cast Floating Disk.

--------------------------------------------------------------

If the gnome is dead, and 'Lil doesn't need her, Akuno tries her best to be a lookout from her vantage point, helping anyone else on the lookout. If there's a sign of trouble, she'll use her wand of produce flame. (Aid another, perception 12 pass)

Notes: 20ft up, tied to an unseen servant.
Blur: 58/60 Rounds
Mage Armor: 1 Hour
Levitate: 27/30 rounds
Barkskin: 598/600 rounds
Unseen Servant: 12 Hours (-whatever time of day it is)
Possibly: Produce Flame, 5 minutes or 5 rounds of shooting.

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+8=17 ; d20+1=12 ;
Tuesday April 6th, 2021 2:04:21 PM
Fand (G8 altitude 75') notes 'Lil and Akuno's advance and keeps her eyes out for trouble (Perception:17).

Haemir is about 40' in the air and flies forward (to F7) (Perception:17)
---

Spells:
Barkskin (+3 natural)
Mage Armor (from Akuno's wand)
Beast Shape 1 (round 3 - grants fly:30').

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=24 ;
Tuesday April 6th, 2021 6:43:09 PM
Thorondir finishes his summoning and three earth elementals appear in squares J 11-13. Aewen circles above, keeping an eye out.

Please tell me if Thorondir's survival check from last round gave information about the kind of beast or the direction of movement.

Aewen perception 24

DM Cayzle - Not only is he merely dead, he's really most sincerely dead!
Wednesday April 7th, 2021 12:39:52 AM
Per the title of the last DM Post, the gnome is dead. You see that he has been mauled and partly eaten, and not long ago.

'Lil moves up to the poor dead gnome. She pulls him back from the precipice.

Thorondir at H6 summons earth elementals at J11, J12, and J13. Note, I need a location and altitude for Aewen, or if the creature is RP only, then she does not get to make checks in combat.

Sol remains still and quiet.

20 ft up, Akuno stays put and keeps watch. So far, nothing.

Eagle-Haemir flies to F7, 40 ft up. And 75 ft up, Fand keeps alert.

And the map!

The gnome has the gear of a cold-weather explorer. That includes a pack with cold weather gear. He also has a gnomish hooked hammer and studded leather armor.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour, Detect Magic
Wednesday April 7th, 2021 2:12:48 AM
Sol moves to G10 and looks to see if there are any magical things about that may have caused the Gnome to be in this situation.

((Going to cast Detect Magic))

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday April 7th, 2021 3:44:32 PM
Titles? 'Lil doesn't read titles. She's far too egalitarian to put stock in such things.

"This little guy's been partially eaten." 'Lil wishes she could rule out non-animal attackers, but there's some nasty stuff out there. She wonders if Thorondir can look at the bite marks and figure out what it was. "We should figure out how to honor the body," she says. Her tone is soft, but these dudes have to know by now that leaving the corpse behind to the elements is unthinkable to 'Lil. "Ground's too hard to dig. I ain't ever been a fan of just stackin' rocks, but there's plenty of rubble here to do that." Or maybe Sol burns him up, she thinks to herself even though she ain't a fan of the idea.

She ain't forgot there's probably danger around, but her dudes had eyes in the sky and elementals summoned to detect anything crawling below. She ain't toooooo worried about being caught by surprise.

That don't mean she leaves Maya just lying around.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=24 ; d20+10=18 ;
Wednesday April 7th, 2021 4:56:00 PM
Thorondir (in eagle form) flies to H10 and lands. He searches his memory for information about what could have attacked the gnome and caused the ground to be torn up.
Knowledge Nature 24

Aewen keeps searching for danger, flying in circles above (at I-14 and moving east).

Summon Nature Ally III (round 1/6 for 3 earth elementals)
Small Earth Elementals
Init –1; Senses darkvision 60 ft., tremorsense 60 ft.; Perception +4
AC 17, touch 10, flat-footed 17 (–1 Dex, +7 natural, +1 size)
hp 13 (2d10+2)
Fort +4, Ref –1, Will +3

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+8=18 ; d20+1=8 ;
Wednesday April 7th, 2021 6:22:58 PM
Curious where the gnomes went Haemir does a brief recce (double move 60' to P-4 maintaining an altitude of 40'), probably discovering that balancing thermals is quite exciting and distracting (Perception:8).

Fand flies over Lil's head and out over the chasm (staying at altitude 75' moves 80' to I-16), as she banks to turn back she looks down below (Perception:18).
---

Spells:
Barkskin
Mage Armor (from Akuno's wand)
Beast Shape 1 (round 4 - grants fly:30').

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday April 7th, 2021 6:25:15 PM
Aewen is 50 feet high in relation to the road.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Wednesday April 7th, 2021 9:56:12 PM

Akuno dances the flames from one palm to another. Surely there was something she could do from up here? Are there any areas that look like decent hiding places? Akuno couldn't find a whale in a mug of beer, but maybe she might recognize a good hiding place?

DM Cayzle - Not only is he merely dead, he's really most sincerely dead!
Thursday April 8th, 2021 1:04:19 AM

Sol moves up and detects magic. There is magic in the gnome's pack. His hooked hammer and armor are excellent quality but not magical. Of course, your friends glow with their own items.

'Lil ponders how to do right by this gnome fellow.

Thorondir lands and looks. His nature lore fails him -- this is no sign or doing of a natural animal, vermin, monstrous humanoid, or plant. Having ruled that out, perhaps some other kind of lore would reveal more?

Akuno keeps alert and looks for hiding places. Certainly, the rocky terrain offers cover that could be used to hide. And the chasm is dark and deep.

Haemir and Fand fly about to do recon. Haemir sees the signs of passage in the snow that the fleeing gnome party made as they fled off to the east. The chasm looks empty, though it is dark.

And the map!

You have a dead gnome with magic in his pack. His friends have run away to the east -- a good quarter to a half a mile away now, most likely, or gone to ground. What do you do?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour, Detect Magic d20+14=29 ;
Thursday April 8th, 2021 2:16:22 AM
"There is something magical about his backpack. Let me get a closer look."

Sol will warily move as close to the gnome as he can, staying away from the edge of the cliff, and try to figure out what the magical item is, and if it may have had anything to do with this gnome's passing.

((29 on Spellcraft to try and determine what the magical thing is))

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+9=20 ; d20+8=22 ;
Thursday April 8th, 2021 4:59:13 AM
Having seen nothing but footprints Haemir heads back to the party landing (at G-12) and shifting back to his normal form.
(Knowledge Religion:20) he takes a second to fathom if the party interrupted some sort of ritual sacrifice then says:
"Unless anyone has any objections I'm going to ask him some questions"?

Meanwhile Fand continues circling overhead recon (flying to O-10).
(Perception:22).
---

Spells:
Barkskin (1 hr)
Mage Armor

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Thursday April 8th, 2021 11:53:27 AM

"Ask him what? He's dead!" Akuno manages to cross her arms in disapproval, despite the fact that currently she's some kind of cat-person kite. "You might as well ask the rocks what happened!" She snorts. "Right Thoro?"

She casts the chasm a nervous glance. "Should we consider looking in there? I mean, the best AND worst case is we find what killed this gnome."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=21 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+4=22 ; d20+10=14 ;
Thursday April 8th, 2021 1:54:07 PM
Frustrated at the lack of information that he is able to gather, Throrondir decides it is time to check things out himself. He hops I-13 and his shape changes from an eagle to an earth elemental. Motioning to the three waiting earth elementals to follow, he earth glides down the cliff face trying to keep his eyes out to look for danger (dark vision 60').
Perception 21 Thorondir
Perception EE 1 23
Perception EE 2 17
Perception EE 3 22

Aewen flies overhead (I-16) Perception 14

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday April 8th, 2021 4:50:59 PM
'Lil lets her dudes search and figure out what happened and what's still around. She's a priest and has a job to do. She holds a finger up to Haemir. "One sec. First things first." She kneels in front of the corpse.

"Domi, I don't know this little dude from Jericho. He ain't dressed like someone who spends all his time indoors behind a ledger, though. He went out into a dangerous world and it got the better of him. I'd say that makes him one of yours." She puts her hand on the gnome's forehead. "Be at peace, little dude. Your work here's over. Enjoy your rest." She stands and nods to Haemir. She almost tells him to be respectful, but stops herself. Of course Haemir would be respectful. It don't need to be said.

DM Cayzle - Not only is he merely dead, he's really most sincerely dead!
Thursday April 8th, 2021 11:16:55 PM

The party explores but finds nothing much ... the chasm is empty ... except for these, in the pack: four magic scrolls.

Spellcraft DC22 or Read Magic: Highlight to display spoiler: {three scrolls of soften earth and stone and one of move earth}

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour, Detect Magic
Friday April 9th, 2021 2:09:46 AM
Sol goes into the Gnome's backpack and removes the scrolls.

"There are three scrolls of Soften Earth and one of Move Earth... what do you suppose he was doing with these?"

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday April 9th, 2021 9:18:18 AM
'Lil wonders if this chasm is a result of whatever these gnomes were doing. She waits for Haemir to question him.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Friday April 9th, 2021 1:03:23 PM

"Anyone think we might want to track down the gnomes who fled? They might be worth talking to, and if someone has tracking skills, it shouldn't be hard to find them."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+6=8 ; d20+9=15 ; d20+10=28 ;
Friday April 9th, 2021 6:18:01 PM
Thorondir comes back from the chasm and changes from an earth elemental back to his elven self. (I’m assuming several rounds have gone by). His earth elementals are gone. “I was certain that there was a creature in the chasm that killed the gnome, but we searched and found nothing. I called the elementals here for nothing. I hope they didn’t mind being disturbed. After Haemir talks with the dead gnome I’ll track the fleeing gnomes. Perhaps they will have answers.”

Survival 8
Perception 15

Aewen perception 28

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Friday April 9th, 2021 7:12:59 PM
"It takes ten minutes to pierce the veil, are we sure this place is safe before I start"?

Fand lands on his shoulder and says with her human-like female voice:
"Looks quiet to me"...

If all agree Haemir begins his ritual, crouching next to the body he places his show down and starts respectfully clearing bits of grime and dirt from the departed gnomes face, mouth and eyes. Then after a minute (if you avidly watch him and are into spell-casting) he trances out somewhere in the process and casts without flourish, then snaps back.

"I am sorry for your passing and wish you peace, if you have any requests as to what we should we do with your body"..? Even though he's cast of before he never ceases to jump a little when they start speaking back.

Then he asks the question he always asks: the way he sees it - it's the gnomes last chance to tell someone something important, or maybe just a warning like: "don't turn your back on old Jake"! At the end of the day some say who killed them, or perhaps a dying wish? Or maybe the funniest joke they'd ever heard, or a secret? Dealers choice. He clears his throat then asks:
"What is the most important thing you wish to say"?
---

Spells:
Casts Speak with dead
Barkskin (1 hr)
Mage Armor (from Akuno's wand)

DM Cayzle - Not only is he merely dead, he's really most sincerely dead!
Saturday April 10th, 2021 11:31:27 PM
Sol wonders why the gnome had three scrolls of Soften Earth and one of Move Earth.

'Lil wonders if this chasm is a result of whatever these gnomes were doing.

Akuno asks about tracking the gnomes who fled.

Thorondir volunteers to track the gnomes after Haemir's magic.

Haemir is courteous to the dead gnome -- in fact, his questions are more for the dead's benefit than for the party's!

The gnome says that he would like to be buried in holy ground or else cremated, please, so that he will not be made an undead nor eaten by beasts. And his most important thing is that he asks that you tell Taramay that he loved her.

Those are two questions -- the spell allows three. You have one more question left!

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Sunday April 11th, 2021 1:45:07 PM
Turning to the party...

"One question left... Any ideas"?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=21 ;
Sunday April 11th, 2021 7:51:30 PM
"Well, I have spent the last while trying to figure out what happened here. Perhaps something along the lines of, 'What happened here?' "

Thorondir looks around.

"I'm not good with words, but I think we are all curious to find out how he died, why the gnomes were running and if there is a dangerous enemy here. I'm also curious about this chasm, and if their spells may have been involved in it eating into the road."

Thorondir looks again carefully at the chasm. He is familiar with the spells on the scrolls, and he know what landslides and soil creep look like.
Knowledge nature to determine the cause and how recent mass wasting activity was: 21

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday April 12th, 2021 1:40:49 PM
'Lil nods, feeling Thorondir's answer the most obvious.

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50
Monday April 12th, 2021 3:39:23 PM
"Yeah sure" Haemir replies standing back up and looking down at his feet, he pushes some snow a tiny distance with his shoe, maybe clearing it or maybe avoiding eye contact?! He wasn't used to asking a question that was nothing to do with anybody else (other than the deceased and their wishes). Facing the gnome he asks:
"I promise to find Taramay for you.. Would you mind telling us what happened here please? So that we may help others avoid your fate".

These 'last word's were racking up, that was two missions now. He sighs as he stares off into the distance. One day it would be his turn to answer this question and what would he say?

Fand was pecking the frozen ground he'd cleared looking for worms. Reaching into his pocket he crouches and holds some seeds for her. In between eating she says:
"Oh thanks sweety, I didn't want to disturb your brooding"!
He smiles slightly, she always had a way of hooking him back from his darkness. 'what did that say about me? That my best friend is'... He looked at her tilting his head slightly (much like she did at times) 'Actually what exactly are you'? He thought. Her voice sounded more like a woman everyday?!
---

Active spells
Speak with dead
Barkskin (1 hr)
Mage Armor (1 hr)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Monday April 12th, 2021 5:14:41 PM

Akuno is quiet for now. When the dead talk, it wasn't a time for jokes or teasing, in her opinion. She lowers her own altitude, placing one petite booted foot on the ground, and then the other. Someone will give instructions when its time to press on, she figures.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour, Detect Magic
Monday April 12th, 2021 5:53:24 PM
Sol simply listens to the questions and the answers.

DM Cayzle - Not only is he merely dead, he's really most sincerely dead!
Tuesday April 13th, 2021 11:21:57 AM

Haemir asks his friends if anyone has an idea for the last question.

Thorondir asks for a recitation of events, and as much detail as possible.

'Lil agrees with Thorondir's ideas.

Haemir and Fand converse. Then it is time to speak with the deceased. Haemir asks the dead gnome, "Would you mind telling us what happened here please?"

Sol and Akuno are quiet and thoughtful as the party witch interrogates the dead.

The gnome speaks its last, giving voice to the memories that linger around the corpse. The gnome's spirit has gone on to the Realm of Shadows, but the patterns of thought linger.

"I'm Rolly, and my pal Chaymish had just used the rod to Detect for crystals, and then I was hit! I never saw it coming. Just suddenly bit in the legs, overwhelmed by some huge bug thing, and then it was all over. I only had time to shout a warning, and then I was dead."

You do see less blood than you might expect ... maybe the gnome was drained as the rest of his friends fled?

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+13=19 ;
Tuesday April 13th, 2021 2:46:04 PM
Haemir steps back awkwardly imagining all sorts of bugs, spiders and things with a sucky M.O.s (Knowledge Nature:19?).
Chances are it was weird, muted and .. he shivers: "Time to leave maybe"?! He mumbles half-joking.

Squinting at the gnome his imagination fires into overdrive and he pictures a monster blood-sucking yucky-thing laying eggs in the poor gnome.
"Cremation, here n' now is a plan I am open to.. That is if we have enough magic"?
He raises a hand briefly, mumbling: "Just saying" and rubs them together as if the noticing a chill in the air.
---

Active Spells
Barkskin (50 mins left)
Mage Armor (50 mins left)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour, Detect Magic
Tuesday April 13th, 2021 4:59:48 PM
Sol frowns.

"Well that does not sound very encouraging. I do have a spell that could cremate the body, I believe Scorching Ray would succeed in that endeavour."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Tuesday April 13th, 2021 6:55:20 PM

Akuno looks at her hands, still on fire from the Produce Flame spell. Things happen for a reason it seems. "Don't worry Sol, I've got it. 'Lil, give the word when you've said any final rites." Akuno hadn't expected the first use of her new wand to be cremation. It was sort of a sombering moment, she recognized.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday April 13th, 2021 8:09:09 PM
'Lil's all done. "Go ahead, Akuno."

She'll wait until the body's done, pondering what the next move should be. It wasn't reasonable to go hunt down every critter in the Sargrass that was dangerous. She thinks on the situation, trusting her sense to lead her down the right path.

***

Is there any reason why they should be going after this bug? Is this closer to civilization than I'm realizing, or were these gnomes doing something risky and paid the price?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=18 ;
Tuesday April 13th, 2021 10:01:08 PM
**(from last round)**
Knowledge nature to determine the cause and how recent mass wasting activity was: 21

Thorondir will watch over the cremation, and will cast Quench Fire if it starts to spread.

Aewen flies overhead (I-16) Perception 18

DM shane
Tuesday April 13th, 2021 10:37:21 PM
Hey guys! good to see you again!

Haemir realizes that dead folk speaking can conjure some pretty unnerving mental images.

Thorondir Highlight to display spoiler: {it was Huge whatever got him. it was long and moved on many legs. you notice that all the snow around where the attack happened has a crust on it as though it had partially melted then refroze. there is also some sort of icor or blood that is not human or demi-human in some of the spiked footprints. You guess that whatever it was, it was injured. }

'Lil agrees that they should cremate the body.

Sol offers to use his spells to help with the cremation.

Akuno feels somber and wonders at the need for cremation so soon after getting her wand.

The gnomes body is small, it's also lacking blood which helps. normally cremation continues until the bones themselves have turned to ash, but that takes a lot of heat, the skull, 2 femurs and 1 humerus are all that is left of poor old Bill after you are done. you figure another application of Flame hand or scorching ray would probably clean up the rest of it. but so will nature in a few days as well.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Wednesday April 14th, 2021 6:34:32 PM

Akuno is more than a little squeamish. But she does what she has to, then leaves the rest for nature.

"So, it was a big bug that got him? Is it a rare creature thats a threat? Or a colony of things they stumbled across? I just kinda hope whatever it was doesn't start going out of its way to eat more gnomes now that its had one."

At the thought of being yet another small creature eaten by something larger, Akuno floats up off the ground, more than a bit nervous. (Rise up 10 ft)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour, Detect Magic
Wednesday April 14th, 2021 6:58:09 PM
Sol nods solemnly as Akuno does her casting... he isn't sure what to say or do... religion always made him a little wary.

When the topic turns to the bug he pays attention, as if wanting to learn more about it.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday April 14th, 2021 7:19:04 PM
"It was very big, long and had lots of legs. So giant bug sort of fits the evidence. You see here that it was wounded, it has lost some of its blood. It also appears that the ground melted and refroze, so either the gnomes were using some sort of fire or the giant bug has the ability to generate some heat. I've never seen one, so I can't really say any more about it."

Thorondir looks around, a bit perplexed.

"Perhaps we should be off. Myself and three summoned earth elementals couldn't find it, so either it can't be found or it will find us. It finding us doesn't sound like it will have a good outcome."

Haemir (Rich) AC:20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:50/50 d20+1=3 ;
Wednesday April 14th, 2021 7:42:02 PM
Haemir picks up his crossbow and swivels around vigilant, no monster was gonna sneak up on him!
(Perception:3).

"I think the gnomes delved too greedily n' too deep with their earth shaping scrolls" he says pointing towards the thin ice. "Probably bust in n' woke something .. icky"!?

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday April 15th, 2021 10:34:47 AM
'Lil don't see much reason to stick around. It's tragic, but that's life in these parts. The gnomes probably knew the risks.

DM shane
Thursday April 15th, 2021 8:47:14 PM
sorry folks work kept me late and I was too tired after doing reports to even think properly.

Haemir has visions of demons living deep underground, look out they might get you!

Thorondir relates his findings to the rest of the crew.

'Lil is ready to get a move on.

Sol has an interest in bugs.

Akuno finds that large bugs are contraindicated for your personal comfort.

it looks like everyone is done here. do you head down the mountain? or did you have any other things you wanted to do here?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 24/24 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour, Detect Magic
Friday April 16th, 2021 3:01:27 AM
Sol sighs.

"That is just what we need... something from the earth that has been sleeping away eternity awaking and being very hungry. I will add it to the list of issues we must solve shall I?"

He smirks slightly, his sarcasm coming through.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP: 41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC: 23/27 - HP: 50/50 5d8+6=34 ; d8+5=7 ; d8+5=6 ; d8+5=8 ;
Friday April 16th, 2021 8:37:07 AM
On the way back to the Maiden something catches Fand's attention and she diverts Haemir.
"I'll catch up". He tells the party.

Crunching over the brow of a hill Haemir notes the crisp white snow turns red, another body...! Dreading a second gnome he gasps seeing what looks ike a smaller-than-normal Rake? One leg pinned and broken, the side of its head crushed by landslide.

He crouches. The body's still warm, its breath lingering like mist, rubble still trickles lower down - it all culminates in realisation how close he was, this soul had literally just passed. Approaching 120 years old he'd seen a fair few deaths but the animal ones that hurt the most. Later on he wouldn't recall or understand what happened - maybe he lost it? Maybe something possessed him? All he knew was pain and energy - then the cat rolled over, hacked and stood up. Alive!?

He was ecstatic and elated (for a few heart beats), but his bubble bursts seeing she can barely stand. Maybe whilst the soul returned some other part (the brain?) was still damaged!? She staggers unable to find her footing and collapses, panting, distressed. He tries to calm her but all he can really do is feel helpless.

Fand snaps him out of it and they speak for a while. A private and honest chat, long overdue and when finished he understood a humbling, beautiful truth - Fand wasn't his familiar and he certainly wasn't the hero of any story. Turns out Fand had powers he couldn't even conceive and in the end he felt honoured to be her familiar! If that's what it was? After all she'd saved his life and he was fairly sure Thorondir would agree - animals were the best teachers. Plus he'd done nothing here, Fand was the one making a sacrifice.

So it came to pass that whatever the magic was in Fand - it left the beautiful blue Macaw and entered into a Rake who was within minutes springing around like an excited cub .. until they remembered the landslide and left.
---

Epilogue.
Felll'g woke with a start. He'd been dreaming of ships and storms, of walking trees, monsters and magic, and even a strange floating cat?! He shook his head and took in his surroundings. Where was he? Why was it so cold? What was all this coloured grass? In that moment he did what any rational parrot would do, he got the hell outta there. Haemir stood silently watching the blue Macaw fly home.

Ten minutes later Haemir crunches back through the snow towards the Maiden with a Rapke next to him. He introduces his new friend as Fand (maybe he names all his companions the same?) and deflects all questions - because really he ain't got a clue! He just runs with the weirdness that's become his life!
---

Active Spells:
Barkskin (35 mins left)
Mage Armor (35 mins left)
Used: 'Life & Death' (SLA) Breath of Life
3 x CLW

[OOC: Sorry I rambled - this was therapy and remembrance of my own companion Foster - who walked the rainbow bridge himself today - R.I.P.].

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Friday April 16th, 2021 12:02:12 PM
[ooc: Dude. I cried my head off when my wife read Rainbow Bridge after Miso died recently. Feel you my friend.]

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday April 16th, 2021 1:29:48 PM
[ooc: just buried my grandkids dog last week. It is a sad day but a nicely done remembrance]

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday April 16th, 2021 7:35:01 PM
Surprised at the change of Haemir's companion, Thorondir decides to get to know the snow leopard.

Casting speak with animals he talks in the leopard's language.
"It looks like you have found a good friend, Haemir will be a good companion for you. Yes, they call him Haemir. I am Thorondir, and that bird up there is Aewen. Please do not try and eat her, I will make sure you have plenty of food so that won't be a temptation. Welcome, and please let me know if you ever have anything I can do for you"

Looking around at the people, Thorondir adds: "I am ready to go, unless you decide to hunt this bug."

DM shane
Friday April 16th, 2021 11:06:57 PM

Haemir before they party sets off, senses something and comes back to camp with a new animal companion.

Thorondir wants to visit with the new member,

'Lil ?

Sol gets with the whole "what lies beneath" vibe.

Akuno feels sorrow for a dog. (they do tend to work their ways into our souls do they not? )

The party begins to head down the mountain. this way is still rough. sure the trail you are on is nice and wide, flat and fair. but off to the sides, whoa.. it ranges from towering snowfields on your left to falls that at some points are ankle breakers all the way up to "splat"
The view is Awesome though. the white fluffy clouds seem to only be a few hundred feet above you, the sun shines bright and illuminates the impossibly green and wide expanse of the Sargrass below you, funny it's cold up here, but you can actually see the heat waves coming shimmering at the horizon on the Sargrass.
You walk a few hundred feet when you notice a disturbed spot in the snow to your left. there is some of the weirdly colored icor/blood there too.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:21/25 - HP:50/50 - CMD:24 d20+6=20 ; d20+1=21 ;
Saturday April 17th, 2021 7:48:43 AM
As Thorondir speaks to Fand, she sits and tilts her head listening. A big cheeky grin reveals pearly white teeth and she even nods at one point. Afterwards a gentle thigh bump tells the druid all is good and the Rapke pads alongside him for a while.

At the weirdly colored icor/blood Fand crouches and sniffs the ground seeing what story it reveals (Scent:20).

Haemir raises his loaded crossbow and looks around (Perception:21).

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Saturday April 17th, 2021 3:18:34 PM

(How long have we been exploring Mr. DM?)

Akuno keeps herself on the ground for now. She steals glances at the snow leapord from time to time. She -liked- big cats a lot, and was glad to have this one around. She kinda missed Llew. Maybe this one would be friendly too?

DM: I figure it took you all an hour to finish wth the dead gnome. and you've been walking for a 15 minutes. with the new cat and all.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=21 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+10=22 ;
Saturday April 17th, 2021 10:52:46 PM
Thorondir walks over the the spot where the weirdly colored fluid is on the ground. He is looking for tracks, direction of travel and if the ground is disturbed enough that the creature may be below.

Perception 21
Survival 23

Aewen flies above and searches the ground as well.
Perception 22

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d20+12=18 ;
Monday April 19th, 2021 12:19:16 PM
*Apologies for missing last Friday. Health stuff. I could use a sub tomorrow; I'm getting my gallbladder removed.

***

'Lil accompanies Thorondir, figuring no one should go out alone right now. She lets him handle the blood/tracks/whatnot. She keeps her eyes up.

Perception: 18 - Keeping my eyes peeled for anything around us

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:30/30 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+10=30 ;
Monday April 19th, 2021 6:06:21 PM
Sol keeps an eye out, looking around for what may have caused it and/or what happened to it.

((Nat 20 on Perception for a total of 30))

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Monday April 19th, 2021 10:11:55 PM

Akuno gets another look at the gunk on the ground. "Nope.", she states, and levitates 10ft up.

DM shane d20+13=30 ; 3d6+9=19 ; d20+21=32 ;
Monday April 19th, 2021 10:58:50 PM
You notice that the snow here has been melted and refrozen in a circle about 3x bigger than a barrel. as you are looking at it you see a glow beneath the ice, that moves quickly towards the ice and then bursts through.

it rears above you, it looks something like a centipede, only it has a hood kind of like a cobra, the hood glows with heat. Its multi-faceted eyes glow red as well it's also kind of centaur-like, it has a large section of the body with no legs suspended above the part with legs. it's blue in color, but the back glows orange. you notice that it seems to be bleeding and looks to have some damage.

it strikes at Thorondir biting him for 19 points of damage and latches onto him, lifting him in the air. as it makes it's way out of the ice tunnel it "melted" for itself.

make a DC 15 dungeoneering check, or Know Nature check or just take a wild guess as to what this is.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+9=16 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+8=24 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+8=25 ; d6+4=7 ; d3+4=6 ; d3+4=7 ;
Tuesday April 20th, 2021 5:50:22 AM
Haemir casts Blindness on the creature (using 'Focused Curse': as an immediate action, adds +1 to the spell penetration check & Sv DC of a curse cast (Fort DC18) Spell Resistance:20), then wracks his brain about what the creature could be (Knowledge Nature:16)!?

Meanwhile Fand flies into a frenzy (Bite:24 - 7 dmg, claw:19 - 6 dmg and claw: 25 - 7 dmg) desperately trying to help Thorondir.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp d20=6 ; d20+16=23 ;
Tuesday April 20th, 2021 12:17:33 PM

"Eeeeeeek!"

Akuno isn't pleased at the sight of the giant bug. (Know Nature: Fail). She KNEW it was coming, but it was sooooo disgusting! And now it wanted to eat Thorondir!

Without much idea of what could work, and not wanting to risk hitting Thorondir with anything, she just insults the big stupid worm. Raising herself higher into the air (30ft), she points down at it imperiously.

"Hey! You disgusting blob of worms-for-brains! You put that druid down! He's one of mine, so you can't have him! You don't just eat a royals retinue, you oversized sack of yeti turds!" She scandalously covers her mouth with her hand, her eyes cruel with judgement. "Why'd you go for the druid anyways? Huh? Do you like the taste of dirt and pinecones? Do you have some kind of thing for dirty druids? How gross! Go away worm!"

Move Action: (Doesn't look like the maps been updated in a bit.) Levitates to 30ft. Should give her the right range to use....

Standard Action: Taunt. Allows you to intimidate a creature using your bluff score instead of intimidate. Also ignores size modifiers. Result is 23 vs DC (10 + HD + Wis Mod). Creatue is shaken for 1 round + 1 round for each 5 points by which I beat the DC.

Blur
Barkskin
Mage Armor

Ken, Posting for Carl and Lil' d20+10=20 ; d20+8=11 ;
Tuesday April 20th, 2021 12:29:00 PM

'Lil wasn't sure what Akuno thought she was going to do by shaming the worm for eating, but maybe the small catgirls insults could cross the species barrier. "You do you princess, I'll just hit it with things."

'Lil casts Spiritual Weapon. She does it defensively, since the monster is right on top of her. (Lil was near Thorondir per the last post.) (20 vs 19, success)

It probably misses vs AC 11

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:30/30 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour 3d4+3=8 ;
Tuesday April 20th, 2021 5:02:28 PM
Sol has no skills to help guide him what it is and simply moves back away from whatever it is, and casts Magic Missile at it, doing a total of 8 damage.

"Does anyone know a type of magic that may be more useful against this creature?" he calls out, hoping someone knows more about what it is.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+7=9 ; d20+2=21 ; d4=4 ; d4=2 ; d4=2 ;
Tuesday April 20th, 2021 6:29:11 PM
He knew this would happen, wandering around looking for a wounded creature never seems to turn out good. Now he is caught in the mandible of some creature from below. Not knowing what to do, Thorondir decides to try and wildshape out of the situation.

Wildshape - turn into an air elemental
Escape artist 9

If successful, he tries to wiggle out of its grasp now that he is less corporal.

Aewen screams from above, and dives down towards the creature.
Hit AC 21 Bite 4, Talons 2 + 2 = 8 total

DM shane
Tuesday April 20th, 2021 6:38:54 PM
OOC: Sorry guys: I know of no map for this encounter. you are on a broad plateau with a steep drop off (need a climb check of 12 to make it) to your right and the snowfield to your left. the snowfield rises to about a 15° angle back up into the mountains. there are no rocks bigger than a fist on the road. you know now that I've explained it I think even my meager google doc skills can make this map. Map

take this round to place your sprites and make sure the link works.
Note to Haemir Highlight to display spoiler: {it's a Remorhaz. an ice worm that is really hot. }

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Wednesday April 21st, 2021 1:07:42 PM
(OOC - I can't get the link to work)

DM Shane - The Map
Wednesday April 21st, 2021 9:50:08 PM
"https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/14HVfo2ODriwM0GeusYQ6RFaAVTfvqJDGiHh8zNaWEMo/edit?usp=sharing
highlight that and post it in a web page search bar because apparently you DM's Html skills such as well.

Ken, Posting for Carl and Lil'
Wednesday April 21st, 2021 10:06:43 PM
(I changed the map to a hyperlink and added it to your header, Shane. It should pop up everytime you post now so you wont have to worry about it. )

Ken, Posting for Carl and Lil'
Wednesday April 21st, 2021 10:07:22 PM
Lil waits to see whether or not her spiritual weapon connects, though she's sure its off by a large degree.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Wednesday April 21st, 2021 10:08:39 PM

Akuno smiles nervously. Those were some fine taunts, by her own reckoning.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday April 21st, 2021 11:06:29 PM
Thoughts of dirt and pinecones go through Thorondir's head as he is crunched by the creature.
I wonder why I'm thinking about pine cones, maybe I'm dying?

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Thursday April 22nd, 2021 5:37:22 AM
"I think it's a Remorhaz, some sort of fire worm"?!

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Thursday April 22nd, 2021 10:52:03 PM

Fire worm? Then no produce flame here. It was also probably not bothered by cold spells, given its internal heat.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Thursday April 22nd, 2021 10:52:55 PM
KEN FOR LIL

'Lil ponders existence as a cleric of the god of bravery. Did that make every encounter a fight to the death? Surely she could retreat and not lose face, as long as she made sure everyone retreated together?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:30/30 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour 3d4+3=14 ;
Friday April 23rd, 2021 1:47:22 AM
Sol nods hearing it's a Remorhaz, and still not really knowing what to do about that, having never encountered one before, so he settles on Magic Missile again.

((14 damage))

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:30/30 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+17=30 ;
Friday April 23rd, 2021 1:49:25 AM
((OoC: Rolling for Knowledge (Arcana) to see if Sol knows anything about the creature/it's weaknesses etc. Result - 30))

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday April 23rd, 2021 6:59:35 PM
*wheeze* “pine cones and dirt” *cough* “can someone do something besides insult me” *groan*

being in the mandible of a Remorhaz seems to be less fun than anticipated

DM Shane - The Map 8d6=34 ;
Friday April 23rd, 2021 11:03:57 PM
sorry guys, the internet has been very spotty as of late. I've had a post up several times but the internet fails at the most inopportune times.

Haemir gets a spell off which blinds the creature. while Fand rips into the soft juntions between its chitinous plates, he does some damage but the thing is so hot it burns him he takes 34 points of Damage! he also correctly identifies the beast you are fighting.

Thorondir you'd think that being made of air would allow you to escape a bite grapple, but it does not. your new air form fills the air with hot evergreen goodness though.

'Lil swings and misses, your reaction to the sudden appearance what admirable though.

Sol smacks some Thaumatic energy into the beast.

Akuno if insults caused damage the worm would be dead four times over.

The Remorhaz steps out into the road, blined now it still keeps it's head orineted toward the general direction of the party. it thows its head back and tosses Thorondir up into the air to swallow him.
(since you are a air elemental now I'm goint to give you one dex, escape artist or fly check at DC 12 to fly away before he can swallow you.

AC? HP -36

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+17=21 ; 6d6=19 ;
Saturday April 24th, 2021 12:46:09 PM
Fly Check 21

Air Elemental Thorondir spins out of the path of the mouth of the Remorhaz and rises 30 feet into the air. Looking down at the creature, he decides he must try and quench it's flame.

Cast Quench: 19 hp of damage, no ST

Aewen rises up and screeches, she is about 60 feet above Thorondir.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+9=10 ;
Saturday April 24th, 2021 6:05:04 PM
With no other ideas about the Rmorhaz, Sol defaults to hitting it from afar with his staff, as he has no other spells prepared that could be useful.

((I'm assuming a 10 is a miss!))

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:15/49 - CMD:24
Monday April 26th, 2021 5:01:47 AM
Fand hisses and staggers back. Haemir tells her: "Behind me girl"..!
She limps, flops and looking sorry for herself eats some snow and starts cleaning a paw, trying to soothe the burn.

Haemir waits till 'Lil and Akuno have acted then:
"If this works - DON'T ATTACK till everyone is ready"! He shouts and casts Deep Slumber on the creature (Will Sv - DC19).
---

Active Spells:
Barkskin (30 mins left)
Mage Armor (30 mins left)

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d20+11=22 ; d20+8=10 ; d8+2=10 ;
Monday April 26th, 2021 10:41:14 AM
Thanks to Ken for subbing. I'm good to take back over.

'Lil's hammer keeps poundin' on this dumb worm's skin. Wait, was it skin? Ain't bugs got something call chitin? Whatever it is, her spiritual hammer keeps poundin'.

She also tries stabbin' with Maya, but she don't break through the thing's skin-chitin. Hearing Haemir, she gets ready to hold her next attack and restrain her spiritual weapon if...whatever he's gonna do works.

***

Spiritual hammer: Hit AC 22 for 10 damage
Standard: Attack w/ Maya, hitting AC 10

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp d4+1=3 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=2 ;
Monday April 26th, 2021 1:08:56 PM

Seeing as the plan is attack, Akuno gains a bit more altitude uses her star heart to create a trio magic missiles.

"Ew, how gross. You're still eating forest hobos I see. Whats next, you start licking orc feet? How gross are you, worm? You should just go impale yourself on Garguls fishing hooks."

She sends the magic missiles at the worm for 7 damage.

DM Cayzle - The Many-Legged, Super-Hot, Hungry Blue-ish People Eater d20+4=20 ; d3=1 ; d20+13=25 ; 3d6+9=25 ; d20+21=38 ;
Monday April 26th, 2021 9:45:45 PM

Thorondir casts Quench. All nonmagical fires within ten feet of the huge monster go out, and the red-hot radiating plates that line its back dim for a moment. But, alas, the spell is intended to attack creatures with the fire subtype, and this monster does not have that. Still it is a cool idea, and your kindly DM, happy to be here after an absence and feeling generous, grants a consolation prize just this once: The monster will do no fire damage for the next 1d3 rounds, please roll a 1d3.

Sol swings and misses!

'Lil's spiritual weapon blams against the monster, inflicting 10 damage.

Akuno fires off three magic missiles and inflicts 7 more damage.

Haemir casts Deep Slumber on the creature. The magic affects up to ten hit dice ... and this monster has nine! It is potentially vulnerable.

It has a will save bonus of +4. It rolls a 20! Excellent effort, but the magic has no effect on the thing!

Slightly chilled, the monster moves to attack a ground-based foe. As far as your DM can tell, Akuno and Thorondir are airbourne and out of reach. The ground-based targets are 1. Haemir, 2. Sol, and 3. 'Lil. Rolling a 1d3 randomly ... The monster crawls quickly on its many legs to Haemir and BITES at him!

Those sharp mandibles SNAP at AC25, enough to snare Haemir and inflict 25 damage! And the monster tries to grab him, making a grapple check of 38 -- that's enough to beat Haemir's CMD15.

No doubt the monster will try to swallow our hero whole next round, and with its +21 CMB vs Haemir's CMD15 ... well, let's just say that this DMs return may soon include a visit to Lord Gargul!

Verbal Map
Haemir is next to the monster. 'Lil and Sol are on the ground but not in melee range (20+ ft away). Akuno and Thorondir are aloft and out of reach.

The Monster!
AC20, CMD28
Damage Taken: 53

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d3=3 ;
Monday April 26th, 2021 10:52:34 PM
D3 roll = 3
Post for Thorondir to come later

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp d20+16=24 ;
Tuesday April 27th, 2021 12:05:22 AM

For her DM's knowledge, Akuno has more or less hovered at 30ft above the monster thanks to her boots of levitation. She's pretty sure her insults have worn off. "Hey! Who said you bite someone else? The worm thinks its allowed to touch the people!"

She was talking a big game, but the truth was her voice had a bit of an edge to it. She was frightfully afraid for Haemir, just as she was for Thorondir. She digs deep and manifests some magic. As a princess in trade, there wasn't much she had for this situation, but if she could just stun it for a second....

She moves within 15 feet and casts color spray. If there's a way to NOT include Haemir she will, but she'd rather him be stunned than eaten.

Color Spray: 5HD+ Stunned for 1 round. Will DC 16 Negates (Monster should be at -2 for shaken.)

Standard Action: Taunt. Allows you to intimidate a creature using your bluff score instead of intimidate. Also ignores size modifiers. Result is 24 vs DC 20? (10 + 9hd + 1wis). Creatue is shaken for 1 round.

Shaken: A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. Shaken is a less severe state of fear than frightened or panicked.

Move Action: Lower within 15 feet of the worm.

Hero Point: Cast Color Spray.

Stunned: A stunned creature drops everything held, can’t take actions, takes a –2 penalty to AC, and loses its Dexterity bonus to AC (if any). Attackers receive a +4 bonus on attack rolls to perform combat maneuvers against a stunned opponent.

Perhaps a kindly DM would consider Haemir held? If not he should be able to slip away hopefully by some other means.

Blur
Barkskin
Mage Armor
Levitate

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP:16/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:15/49 - CMD:24 d20+8=22 ; d20=2 ; d20+11=23 ;
Tuesday April 27th, 2021 7:32:28 AM
Haemir is more than a little surprised when the blind creature makes its way over to him and chomps him - followed by a colour spray (Will Sv:22).

He casts Charm Monster (Will Sv DC:19) on the creature. Having successfully identified it (can I assume Haemir knows they supposedly understand Giant? If so) he yells at it Highlight to display spoiler: {"Put me down right now"!} in its language. (If not he will hope the charm stops him being eaten). If neither apply he gurgles "Run Fand" and his life flashes before him.
---

If I understand this correctly? 'Ensnared' spellcasters must make a concentration check (DC 15 + spell level) or lose the spell (Haemir's concentration is:23).

Fand runs clear (wasn't sure what to roll: 2 - but she does have spring attack - if it's acrobatics? Result 10 or she can just double move away)

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP:16/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:15/49 - CMD:24
Tuesday April 27th, 2021 7:34:17 AM
(Sorry DC is 18 for this spell)

DM Cayzle - The Many-Legged, Super-Hot, Hungry Blue-ish People Eater CORRECTION d100=52 ;
Tuesday April 27th, 2021 7:38:28 AM

[OOC: Sorry, your incoming DM missed that this thing was blinded.]

The creature is blinded and has tremorsense, and it can pinpoint the location of the three landbound heroes. "Pinpoint" means that it knows the location, but being blinded it still has a 50% miss chance. The creature misses Haemir on a concealment check of 1-50.

The roll is a 52!

It just barely misses Haemir! Our hero escapes the monster's bite ... by a whisker!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d4+1=4 ; d20+17=20 ; d20+2=15 ; d20+2=11 ; d20+2=15 ; d20+2=8 ;
Tuesday April 27th, 2021 10:44:42 AM
Thorondir flies above the creature (fly check 20). It seems that though he did not quench the fire within it, the fire has dimmed for now (3 rounds). He decides he needs to summon some more help to deal with it.

Cast Summon Nature's Ally III
(4 giant centipedes summoned to appear next round at the feet of the beast)
Attacks hit AC: 15, 11, 15, 8

Giant Centipedes
AC 14, touch 12, flat-footed 12 (+2 Dex, +2 natural)
hp 5 (1d8+1)
Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +0
Immune mind-affecting effects
Offense
Speed 40 ft., climb 40 ft.
Melee bite +2 (1d6–1 plus poison)
Special Attacks poison - Poison (EX) Bite—injury; save Fort DC 13; frequency 1/round for 6 rounds; effect 1d3 Dex damage; cure 1 save. The save DC is Constitution-based and includes a +2 racial bonus.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d20+11=20 ; d20+8=27 ; d8+2=5 ; d8+3=4 ;
Tuesday April 27th, 2021 12:40:31 PM
"The worm thinks its allowed to touch the people!"

'Lil's in the middle'a combat, and Haemir woulda nearly died if this worm could see, but she can't help herself. She finds herself trying hard to hold back laughter, but fails. The giggles pour outta her as she stabs, turning what may have been a miss into a solid hit on the critter.

"Oh man, she's funny when she's indignant," 'Lil opines as she twists Maya and pulls her out. She wipes some tears off with her forearm and keeps fightin'.

***

Spiritual weapon hits AC 20 for 5 damage
Standard: Attack w/ Maya, hitting AC 27 for 4 damage

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:15/49 - CMD:24 d20+8=22 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=18 ; d6+4=7 ; d3+4=6 ;
Tuesday April 27th, 2021 6:12:54 PM
Haemir is not the most observant, a fact he highlights by happening to look towards Fand - missing the looming shadow (which blocks out the sun) and it's only when he notices the sudden lack of sunlight that he freezes - taking a second to look up...
When he does he forms a crisp assessment that he's about to be recycled!
Gaping maw from horizon-to-horizon and dripping saliva. In that moment as the creature's breath whips his hair like a hurricane (blowing out a fair amount of Sargrass dust) he virtually sees what it had for breakf... "Woah". By some quirk of twist of thread he ducks at the right second - accidentally. Maybe the blindness worked in his favour?! He retches and looks up to see the monster withdrawing and somehow he's still in one piece. "By Garguls beard" that was close, he wanted to say, but: " The WLA welcome brochure never mentioned their breath" comes out and he gags seeing monster spittle on his shoulder.

Then the centepedes appear.. All those legs tap-tap-tapping must be sending whatever sense (hearing/tremor/sonar) crazy and Fand leaps in: (clawing:(22) for 7 dmg; missing(10); and missing(18) with the last claw, but if flanking (6 dmg), she's smart enough to use any advantage). She's snarling and all protective (to Haemir's surprise and horror). Aw gotta love em, but seriously they'd be having words!

He shakes his head clear and leans back and casts Deep Slumber again (Will DC:19) after everyone's acted.
---

(Using last post's roll for concentration check he casts defensively - maybe that translates to casting without making much earth-vibration?)

DM Shane - The Map d20+4=7 ; d20+4=13 ;
Tuesday April 27th, 2021 10:14:36 PM
Haemir in the words of "Tex Ridder" That was close! The Deep slumber spell hits it and it rather gracefully curls into a circle and becomes motionless.
but since your action was the last action all the other players get their actions before this happens.

Thorondir summons a bunch of Giant Centipedes they flail at the creature but fail to get through its tough carapace

'Lil finds that laughter helps her aim and she pokes and cuts the big worm good!

Sol ?

Akuno Your color spay shakes the creature, but unless you are speaking giant your taunting has limited effect.

The Monster!
AC20, CMD28
Damage Taken: 75 Shaken, Helpless(asleep).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday April 28th, 2021 5:28:48 AM
Sol moves up, seeing the creature is now asleep (not close enough to be in range but close enough to see it more clearly)

"We should either finish it or trap it to release in a safer place. If it is an aberration created by a Wizard or spell caster, we should destroy it, if it is just a creature that has lost it's way, perhaps we can return it to it's home?"

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:15/49 - CMD:24 d20+12=23 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+12=20 ; d6=5 ; d3+4=6 ; d3+4=5 ; d20+8=13 ;
Wednesday April 28th, 2021 9:01:26 AM
Haemir holds a hand up: "Sol, it's 25 feet long n' weighs 10,000 lbs, we aren't moving it anywhere! We could maybe charm it and convince it to leave? But I suspect it would just cause problems elsewhere or come back". He checks his hair out with one hand as he thinks. "Hate to say it but maybe we use this to our advantage n' finish it off"? It's a decision he's not overly proud of but this thing is dangerous and letting it go doesn't make the place any safer. A co-ordinated simultaneous attack before it's heat kicks back in is Haemir's best plan. However, he's open to negotiation if anyone disagrees.

If the group decides to attack Haemir counts down and shoots his loaded crossbow with everyone else. Haemir's bolt fails to penetrate its armor (attack:13) but Fand is on form: (Bites:(23) for 9 dmg, claws(30) for 6 dmg and claw (20) for 5 dmg - includes +4 to hit for target being asleep/helpless). If there is another plan he's in.
---

([i]Uses Guide: Gaze imposes a +2 insight bonus on a his next attack roll, but meh...) :-)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp d4=2 ; d4=3 ; d4=4 ;
Wednesday April 28th, 2021 10:48:21 AM

Akuno frowns.

"It's a monster, we gotta defeat it! If possible, we bring its head back somewhere and throw it on a wall with our names on it, so everyone knows that we are making the Sargrass and its surroundings safer one day at a time."

She might sound mercenary, but in her mind, she's seeing something other than celebrations. "And you know... there's also the gnome I just incinerated. I think I owe it to him." She waits for 'Lil to coup de grace the creature, then she hits it with another Magic Missile barrage if it so much as twitches at someone the wrong way.

MM: 12 damage.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells 2d6+3=11 ; 2d6+3=12 ; 2d6+3=9 ;
Wednesday April 28th, 2021 12:40:10 PM
"Akuno's right. Thing's a man eater with blood on its...worm hands, I don't know. Chances are good it'll kill someone else down the line if we don't do it in."

'Lil stows Maya and pulls out Ramona, her giant warhammer. She's pretty sure the head's still where the brain is in worms, so she aims there and brings Ramona crashing down. It's probably pretty messy.

***

Full round - Coup de grace - 32 damage. Fort save DC 42 if it's still alive. Failure = dead.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d6-1=2 ; d6-1=1 ; d6-1=2 ; d6-1=0 ; d3=1 ; d3=1 ; d3=1 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=13 ;
Wednesday April 28th, 2021 4:28:23 PM
Thorondir continues to spin above the creature, while his centipedes go for the helpless creature.
Skittering about, they sink their mandibles into it and try to inject their poison.

(I don't know if they also get the Coup de grace, I'll roll damage and then roll a to hit with an additional +4 just in case)
Centipede 1: damage 2, poison -1 dexterity, Hit if needed 17
Centipede 2: damage 1, poison -1 dexterity, Hit if needed 13
Centipede 3: damage 2, poison -1 dexterity, Hit if needed 13
Centipede 4: damage 0

DM Shane - The Map d20+11=13 ;
Wednesday April 28th, 2021 10:43:44 PM
between the awesome blow from Lil, the Magic missiles from Akuno, and a bunch of Giant centipedes stings. the creature breathes its last. Though dead, its heat still comes back from the suppression, but slowly starts to cool as it lay there.

give yourself 640 xp for killing the beast. and if you can get the head back to town you might get free beer at the tavern.

Haemir (Rich) AC: 20/13/17 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d8+5=8 ; d8+5=11 ; d8+5=7 ; d8+5=11 ;
Thursday April 29th, 2021 10:18:39 AM
Somewhat pensive Haemir says a quiet prayer: "May Gargul recycle your soul and your next life know peace". He knew the monsters death was a better solution than the alternatives, he just hated using magic that way. "At least it passed peacefully asleep' it felt like poor consolation but would have to do. Today luck had been on his side.

Crouching next to Fand he heals her wounds and in return she shakes snow off - covering him. He laughs and grabs her, he should be telling her off for recklessly attacking the creature, instead he just hugs her for a while before standing up.

Take the head back/don't take the head back - easy either way.
---

Spells active:
Barkskin
Mage Armor
(using 'Coalesce Spells' he locks out a bunch of cantrips for the day and casts 4 CLW).

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d6=5 ; d6=3 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ;
Thursday April 29th, 2021 1:57:46 PM
'Lil cleans the worm gunk off Ramona and Maya, then gives a quick thanks to Domi for seein' her through the fight.

If she's able, she'll motion to Haemir that she can heal a lot more efficiently than he can. She gathers up the injured and starts channeling positive vibes. Thorondir's a little bloody after the first channel, so she does it again.

Channel 1: 14 hp healed
Channel 2: 16 hp healed

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday April 29th, 2021 3:01:20 PM
Landing near 'Lil, Thorondir changes from his air elemental form back into his elven self. It wasn't as evident while he was a swirling mass of air, but he is almost bitten in half. 'Lil channels her powers and with relief he sees his wounds close. His outfit is still a bit of a bloody mess.

"Thanks 'Lil, wasn't sure if I was going to make it through the encounter with that beast. I should have know better, but it is my first encounter with a Remorhaz. This lesson will not be forgotten, it would be impossible to forget being almost chewed in half and swallowed."

He looks at his tattered clothes and looks to Akuno.
"Do you think you could do a little mending and cleaning of these clothes? No, not like a maid. With your incredible magical abilities."

Aewen flies down and lands on Thorondir's shoulder, concerned that she almost lost her friend.

DM Cayzle - The Many-Legged, Super-Hot, Hungry Blue-ish People Eater - DEAD
Thursday April 29th, 2021 10:20:36 PM
Haemir ponders the monster’s death and does some curing.

‘Lil delivers even more positive energy. Wounds knit together and skin and bones heal.

Thorondir thanks his friends for their magical assistance.

Sol and Akuno look the battlefield over.

Clearly it was this monster that slew the gnome.

What’s next for our heroes?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Thursday April 29th, 2021 10:44:23 PM

Akuno blushes a deep red at the compliment from Thorondir. "Well.. yes, yes of course I can!" She casts a prestidigitation spell to clean the goop and gore. While she directs the spell, she mutters. "I know its not like a maid, but I'd do it the old fashioned way if you asked nice. Maybe a little monogram or something above the pocket would.. be kinda nice?"

When the deed is done, she struts to Haemir and pats him hard on the back. His height nearly requires her to jump to put her hand in the right spot. "Well done! And Fand too! A retinue worthy of Princess Akuno, if I say so myself!"

As to whats next.. Akuno is in a weird spot. "Remember why we are here? To build our name and make people feel safe in the grass. I REALLY think if we can bring this thing back as a trophy, or at least part of it, people would realize JUST how strong we are."

She points at the worm. "Its massive, and its a symbol of strength in the ice and snow. An apex predator that fears nothing. If people see that WE slew it, both our name is circulated AND people can get a real scale of how strong we are. That's what we need right? People to know the Sargrass has heroes worthy to be praised.." Her voice dips a little. "And ya know, maybe word will travel that a catgirl princess hero is on the loose... and maybe my -real- parents will come looking?"

And with that, the real reason behind her adamant insistence they make themselves known is put on the table. There's a certain set of eyes she wants to attract, and its not a local gnome in a tavern.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday April 30th, 2021 2:18:04 AM
Sol raises a slight amused eyebrow at the interplay with Akuno and Thorondir, bur says nothing.

"I must agree with Akuno. The peoples of the grasses must know they are safe while we are here, taking a trophy and showing it off may be a good start. I think people are aware of us, but not necessarily what we are doing. I think it would be good to remind them that we are here to help protect them."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday April 30th, 2021 1:23:51 PM
Looking down at the ground Thorondir replies to Akuno:
"Thanks, I couldn't have a princess doing mundane work for me. It wouldn't be right. I'm fine without any extra decoration too, I'm not very keen on style and fitting in with the social norms. You are very nice. I'll get the head and we will take it back, you will become known as a great warrior princess I am sure."

Thorondir takes out his dagger and carefully removes the head from the creature.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday April 30th, 2021 4:01:02 PM
'Lil nods a welcome to Thorondir. "Sometimes in the heat'a things I forget that we ain't got a dedicated healer." She looks at the dead worm. Did she smash the head up too bad to use it as a trophy? Maybe it caved a small hole and squished the brain instead of shattered the skull. She wasn't down with the idea at first, but Akuno brings up a good point about showin' folks that she and her dudes were here to protect them. Hopefully she didn't mess it all up.

"We ain't gotta carry the whole thing, do we? Thing must weigh several tons." Not that cuttin' its head off would be easy. Thing's got serious armor plating and it's probably still hot under them scales. Plus, neither Maya nor Ramona would be useful in cutting. Maybe she could use a spiritual weapon spell to make a sword? She watches as Thorondir starts doing the work with a dagger, remembering what her ma used to say about eating elephants. She ain't got a dagger of her own, but if she can borrow one she'll help.

DM Shane - The Map
Friday April 30th, 2021 10:34:02 PM
Haemir keeps playing with Fand
Akuno blushes mightily as she helps her friend, but she also speaks her wisdom about what should be done with the Remorhaz.
Sol agrees, that you need to build your brand.
"lil isn't afraid to get her hands dirty,
Thorondir is slightly embarrassed that the cat girl was so willing to help him out, he busies himself flensing the head from the beast.

when the head is removed, between the time it takes for the corpse to cool and the time it takes for the head to be removed, it's starting to get later on in the day. you will need to hurry if you want to make it by nightfall.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Saturday May 1st, 2021 1:31:31 AM
Sol looks up at the sun, noticing the day growing late he gets his belongings together.

"We will have to move quickly to get to our destination. So who is carrying that?"

He then gestures at the head.

"I am afraid I would be no good at carrying it, I have not the strength... disadvantage of a youth spent reading books one supposes."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Saturday May 1st, 2021 1:18:23 PM
Greenish yellow ichor dripping from his hands and dagger, Thorondir looks sheepishly at Akuno.

"I hate to ask another favor so soon, but I have one more request your highness. Could you provide one of those floating disc things so we can take the head back to the ship?"

Wiping his hands and dagger on the grasses he cleans up as well as he can.

"I suppose we should hurry back."

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday May 3rd, 2021 2:14:39 PM
'Lil's probably the strongest in the group. She can probably just carry the head if Akuno ain't got another disc. How far back to the ship is it, anyway?

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+14=29 ;
Monday May 3rd, 2021 6:07:39 PM
Haemir stares like a wide-eyed kid as Thorondir vaults up the monster and begins carving it up.

He understood nature - 'Waste not'. Still he shields the cubs head against his chest.
Despite being no stranger to savagery, Fand sighs and relaxes against him.

He knows two things. He ain't got much to offer and has no clue what the cat-queen is up to - he just backs up the fire he sees in her eyes by literally calling in back up.
"Crew, there's a 2,000 lbs monster head trophy n' you're bound to get recognition n' more than a few ales if ye help us carry it"!
---

(Diplomacy:29 + free-ale + sailors right!?)

DM Shane - The Map
Monday May 3rd, 2021 7:29:56 PM
Haemir in the words of "Tex Ridder" That was close! The Deep slumber spell hits it and it rather gracefully curls into a circle and becomes motionless.
but since your action was the last action all the other players get their actions before this happens.

Thorondir hews through the hot mess that is the Remorhaz's muscle, nerves, and circulatory systems like a boss ... a bloody, messy boss.

'Lil thinks she can carry the head should the need arise.

Sol knows he cannot carry the head even if his life depended on it.

Akuno keeps a low profile.

Haemir thinks that getting the sailors to help carry it would be a worthwhile use of his time.

[OOC: Did I miss something? I thought the sailors were on the ship?]

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Tuesday May 4th, 2021 12:07:33 AM

"Eh.. heh.. that's right." Akuno lets her prestidigitation spell finish, and moves on.

Akuno has floating disks aplenty. She's more than willing to cast 1 for the head, and ride one herself. "Thanks everyone!" She's pretty excited about their first big trophy.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+17=30 ;
Tuesday May 4th, 2021 4:03:17 AM
Sol tries to think if a remorhaz travels alone or in pairs, or if any other parts of it might be useful as magical reagents for crafting/brewing.

((Knowledge (Arcana) - 30))

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Tuesday May 4th, 2021 12:47:13 PM
(At the start of combat the ship was 200 yards away so whilst Thorondir was chopping....)

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday May 4th, 2021 11:31:39 PM
'Lil knows from experience that Akuno's invisible butlers ain't too strong, so she gets behind the thing to push if she needs to.

Otherwise she's very ready to get back to the ship.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 4:48:42 AM
"Right let's get back to Zayan. First round's on me"

DM Cayzle - Back to the Boat
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 6:41:30 AM

Sol has heard ancient tales of magical beasts and strange components being used to forge magical items, but modern arcane practice disdains such gorey and imprecise procedures. Some may enchant strange things, but that is never necessary.

[OOC: Pathfinder uses very few-to-no such reagents and components. All you do to make a magic item is input gold, time, and skill checks. No special ingredients ever needed [dragonhide is a notable exception]. That's a very bland way to make magic items, but there it is. OTOH, you can always roleplay the use of a strange ingredient. Use the hide to make a shield, and give the shield the acid resistance property. It costs the same as a wooden shield of acid resistance, so the addition of the hide would be for roleplay value only.]

Akuno cleverly uses a Floating Disk to carry their trophy back to the grasslands-traversing ship. Of course, the second disk follows Akuno per usual. The reason she needs the unseen servant to tow her when she sits atop one is that the spell follows the caster, as 'Lil comes to understand.

The party leaves the monster's corpse and the lonely grave of the gnome, with Haemir leading the way back to the party's vessel.

In the heat of the Plains, you will need to prep the head so that it will not rot. Please consider magic such as Shrink Item or Gentle Repose, or make a DC15 Survival check.

Haemir gives the command, and the ship is soon sailing over the sea of grass.

[Please clarify for your confused DM -- you are headed back to Zaran City, the gnomish town which you just left? Is that what you meant by "Zayan"?]

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+6=8 ;
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 6:12:45 PM
Thorondir attempts to keep the head fresh by packing it in some snow, though it doesn't look like he has done a very good job.
Survival check 8

"Well, I've never been one for trophies but here it is. I hope it doesn't start to stink before it can be preserved, however that is done. Just don't ask me to start killing things to get a head for the wall, I kill only to defend myself or to get food."

Aewen circles above, feeling the same about collecting trophies from kills.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+6=23 ;
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 7:46:18 PM
"Normally I'd be able to do something that would preserve it but not today sorry, I haven't got much left in me. Maybe if we cover this here and pack some snow on".. He manages to put a plan together which surprises himself. (Survival:23).
---

(Ref: Yeah that's the one)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 7:57:37 PM
Sol looks at the head.

"I have no skills able to preserve it... it is somewhat outside of my wheel house I am afraid."

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 8:07:26 PM

"I can preserve it, I think, until you can." Rose's temperature control allows for preserving organic items through either cold or heat, whichever is more appropriate. She chats with Thorondir on the way.
"That's a perfectly reasonable line. I don't think I'd ask you to just kill something for a trophy, but in some cases I think making a trophy from a necessary kill is perfectly okay. If it is something that makes you uncomfortable though, I can make the unseen servants do it. They'll just need a knife or two."

Ken, Posting for Carl and Lil'
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 8:08:46 PM

'Lil has her own thoughts on trophies, but she keeps them to herself. She dutifully marshals her dudes back to the ship, and asks for a course back to Zaran City to begin right away.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 8:08:56 PM

DM Shane - The Map
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 10:15:01 PM
OOC: hmmmm....here is my understanding of the situation. The party was leaving Zaran city headed for the ship when they happened across the body of dead gnome and a bit later they fought a Remorhaz. If you are going back to Zaran city, there is no need to go to the ship. if you are going to Rattledam or other places then you would be going back to the ship. I need some clarification.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 10:34:17 PM

We were flying the ship, saw the gnomes fleeing, then stopped and went down to investigate if I recall correctly.

DM Cayzle - Back to the Boat
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 10:41:04 PM
Yes, actually, the party had travelled a few hours by ship when they had this encounter. So they can go back to the ship, then to Zaran City, and arrive late at night of the same day they set out, if they push it a little.

DM Shane - The Map
Wednesday May 5th, 2021 11:23:11 PM
OOC: Okay we will go with that then.

The party comes up with ways to store the head so that it will not get stinky on the way back to Zaran City.

Thorondir still tired from the fight and the flensing, tries to pack the head in the snow, but he makes a hash of it. He contents himself with his moral superiority concerning trophy hunting.

Haemir does a much better job of it.

'Lil gets things organized on the ship, and gets the party headed back to Zaran city.

Sol strikes out again,

Akuno helps to keep the cold stuff cold with her spell. she also discusses the philosophy of such things as trophies with Thorondir.

The sun is setting in the West as you arrive back to the clearing in front of the mountain where Zaran city makes its home.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday May 7th, 2021 5:21:11 AM
Since the party of gnomes laughed at us for entertaining the idea of trying to speak to a dire bear - Haemir was grinning imagining their reaction when the "clueless outsider's" drop the creatures head on a table ..

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday May 7th, 2021 4:13:56 PM
'Lil remembers that gnome asked us to tell someone that he loved'em. Did they say where that someone lived? She sure hopes it was Zaran City.

She leaves the head good enough alone if Akuno's spell works. If not...well, she can prep a gentle repose spell tomorrow. Hopefully it won't rot too quickly.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday May 7th, 2021 6:09:53 PM
Sol is glad to see Zaran City again. He was still a little uncomfortable out and away from the creature comforts of a home and a building, but he was getting used to it.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday May 7th, 2021 7:09:37 PM
”Some creatures can’t be reasoned with” Thorondir says when the head hits the table

DM Shane - The Map
Friday May 7th, 2021 8:35:19 PM
At the Bar, the head is well received. the two groups are still there glaring at each other and one-upping each other. but when you enter with the Remohaz head...all animosity is lost.
beer flows freely, shoot even the bar owner opens up the bar for a trophy like that!

They all want to hear the story. and the bar begins to fill as word of the big head makes its way around.

(if you wish, summarize the events leading up to and including the battle with the Remorhaz, maybe one of the bar patrons will know something about the dead gnome.)

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday May 10th, 2021 5:47:00 PM
"Well Haemir, don't keep'em waiting!" says 'Lil with an elbow nudge and a (rather wicked) smile.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday May 10th, 2021 6:06:15 PM
Sol, not particularly skilled at orating, simply grabs a mug of ale and keeps to himself in one corner, unless grabbed and brought up or in someway encouraged. He doesn't make a big deal of his involvement in the defeat of the Remorhaz, and in fact unless directly question or spoken to, simply spends time drinking quietly in the corner, writing in his journal.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Monday May 10th, 2021 7:23:37 PM
"It tried to swallow me, if you try and swallow me then negotiations are over. Perhaps your bears can be talked to, never had a bear try and swallow me whole."

Thorondir gets an ale and sips it. Looking to Haemir to tell the tale.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+7=15 ; d20+16=23 ; d20+12=19 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+12=26 ;
Tuesday May 11th, 2021 9:20:27 AM
Haemir was quietly enjoying an ale with Fand curled up at his feet, when peer-pressure and cheeky grins encourage him to step up. He grins back at Lil and Thorondir, but having never done anything like this he casts a spell (1) and thinks for a few seconds. Reaching into his bag-of-holding he takes out a scroll, violin and then stands clearing his throat, waiting till he can hear a pin drop and the gnomes are hanging on baited breath.
"Ladies and Gentleman, For the next few minutes do not be alarmed, we will take you through the key-hole of imagination. May I present the story of the Beast of the Icy Crag"... 'Sure why not ham it up'!? He thinks as the room begins to suddenly grow darker - shadows creep in and even the fireplace seems dimmer (2)

With his dark-vision he reads the scroll (3) and a mini illusionary scene lights up the table (and the darkness fades if necessary), consisting of snow and gnomes. Using images and the violin (to add some suspense) (4) he begins:
"It was not the Sentinels who came upon the beast first, it was a group of gnomes. Chaymish had just used the rod to Detect for crystals, and as the group prepared to mine this poor gnome, named Rolly, was killed! He never even saw it coming". Suddenly the image of the Rhemorhaz bursts from the ground gripping the gnome - accompanied by violin pizzazz. (5).

The story unfolds - highlights include:
"The gnomes flee and The Sentinels arrive".. The performance builds and the beast bites the druid and hurls him up:
"Is all is lost for Thorondir? ... Alas, no he turns into wind and escapes"!

Fand leaping in clawing and being burned... (at which point she growls to add effect).

"It closes in on Haemir who manages to duck"! (6)

"Nothing upsets Akuno she bounces back with vigor and bravery taunting the creature towards her… He gasps emphasizing the bravery of such an act by showing the size differences between the cat-princess and beast!

"Sol's spells piercing the beast"...

"Lil's mighty blow finishing it off"

He brings the fight performance to an end with a flurry of action and musical effects.
"And then to the poor lonely corpse left behind his story untold. After burning Rolly's body, the Sentinels are on mission to find and tell Taramay that he loved her". The violin takes on a somber tune for this part and the illusion zooms in on the gnome so everyone sees his face before the Sentinels cremate him respectfully.

To those that were there - you note Haemir glosses over his part - and the fact that the creature was asleep when finished off.
Concluded he drops all spells, bows and grabs an ale (7).
---

(1) - Bloodwitch Lore - dead witches whisper help and encouragement into his ear (and he gains a +1 competence bonus on Concentration).
(2) - Using his Drow (SLA) Darkness to cloak the room from normal light to dim light.
(3) - Use Magic Device:23 (Vs a CL:1 scroll = DC:21) he casts: ''Silent Image'.
(4) - Perform;15 - which is technically an ‘enjoyable performance’, enhancing music from his violin, nothing flash, just spooky chords etc.
(5) - Concentration check:19 throughout to maintain the illusion whilst he performs.
(6) - Bluff:26 - lying to himself so well even he believes he dodged it!
(7) - Overall story performance:21 (excluding any stacking bonuses for effect) is technically a 'Great performance'.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Tuesday May 11th, 2021 9:52:47 AM
(PS performances include +2 from BW 'Guide' ability)

DM Cayzle - A Tale Well Told
Tuesday May 11th, 2021 3:02:41 PM

Haemir's story is dramatic and powerful -- the crowd gasps in all the right places, and the party is lauded for bravery and for doing the right thing.

One older gnome comes up to you shortly after. "I'm Bill. Good story you got there. That were Chaymish's group, I reckin. I heard he and his group were headed out to the boundry to go treasure hunting. Dad-burned fools. That Rolly was the worst of them, always egging Chaymish on. I told him, I said, "Chaymish, what are you doing? You should know better. Or at least go out there better prepared."

Also, two other fellows approach the party after hearing this tale. They seem interested in joining you in your adventures. Evidently Haemir was very inspiring!

[OOC: Haemir, please accept a hero point. Well done. ALSO, the two new strangers are our two newest player characters! Please welcome them in our usual Woldian fashion after they make their first posts.]

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday May 11th, 2021 4:05:27 PM
Sol offers a polite clap to Haemir, and speaks up.

"Well said my friend! Well said!"

Once he sees the two new fellows approach he will come over to them.

"Hello, good to meet you, I am Sol, the Wizard of the Sentinels."

He offers a hand to be shaken if either of them deign to take it.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday May 11th, 2021 7:32:20 PM
Thorondir sits and sips on his ale as Haemir tells the tale. His mottled brown and green cloak seems to blend with the darkness of the bar. It is a bit battle worn, having just almost been eaten by the remorhaz.

"It is a true tale, the creature almost bit me in half and tried to swallow me. I outwitted it of course. It is a mighty foe, I would be very careful when you venture out unless you have the skills and power to outwit such a creature."

Thorondir looks around and motions to the head.

"That might be a good deterrent mounted at the gate. By the way, who is buying drinks? We aren't looking for a reward, but good manners suggest a thank-you drink or two."

Thorondir welcomes the strangers over and introduces himself.
"I'm a druid, the grove sent me to watch over these folks and the ship the sail on."

DM Shane - The Map
Tuesday May 11th, 2021 9:13:12 PM
It seems our erstwhile newbies are taking their time tonight, as well as the remainder of the party. I must retire for the night, and hopefully, there will be actionable posts tomorrow morning.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday May 11th, 2021 9:13:29 PM
'Lil whistles low. That was pretty impressive!

She looks the two newcomers up and down, takin'em in. 'Lil was pretty particular about this stuff. She didn't just bestow the title of Dude on anyone.

That ain't no reason to not be polite though! "Hey guys, I'm 'Lil. I keep these folks alive and stand between them and the bad guys. That's a new role for me after Grindar left, but someone's gotta do it."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Wednesday May 12th, 2021 7:48:57 AM
Haemir thanks Bill for offering the information and talks with him a while. If Bill is happy to pass on Chaymish's last words: 'tell Taramay that he loved her' (and seems honest) he entrusts him, otherwise he asks how to find Taramay himself. Either way he buys the gnome an ale.

To the new arrivals - Haemir is a 6'2, slim, fey-like Elf resembling a surface drow, but with grey skin like mottled, weatherbeaten marble and hair that may actually be vines (supporting a fair amount of Sargrass' dust). His eyes mirror every exotic colour of the grass and he has a tattoo-tree down the inside of his left arm. Wearing a cloak with iridescent green/black raven-feathers on the shoulders, he carries a bag and displays no weapons (or anything metallic).
Looking over the two new arrivals he cracks a friendly smile:
"I'm Haemir, Cap'n o' the Maiden n' this is Fand" He says resting a hand on the Rapke sat next to him, she looks up from cleaning a paw and grunts.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Wednesday May 12th, 2021 8:41:15 PM

Akuno watches the two newcomers for a moment. She's not quite sure what to think, but she's certainly not going to be a gatekeeper for the sentinels. Or a recruiter. Instead, she's far more interested in what they think of her. There weren't a large number of beast-folk around, and the only one she really knew much about had already left their company.

Akuno (pic in my link) is small. What her 4 foot body lacks in bulk, it makes up for in frills and lace. LOTS of frills and lace. Ribbons are tied in bows, tiny boots are covered in supple leather, and there's a heart-shaped key around her neck. Little cat ears poke out from otherwise well groomed hair. She looks more like she belongs in a doll house, than the grass.

She waits, crosslegged on her seat, nestled into a million pillows. "Maybe they're suddenly shy?", she offers.

DM Shane - The Map
Wednesday May 12th, 2021 11:16:42 PM
The new guys stand in mute awe as to the awesomeness that is the sentinels. You all tell your tales of how the sentinels came to be and a bit of your backstories but the new guys cannot seem to find their tongue. (sorry guys, we've emailed them but so far no word back).

A bit later into the party, an older couple comes in and approaches the party. Their faces are somber as Bill introduces them.
These here are Rolly's maw and paw, Jorver Zarrudanin(the male), and Daphisany Whistlebraid(female) o' house Gopperwipple. I sent a runner to go get tell them the news of Rolly's fate, they wanted to come to thank ye for taken care of the lad and layin' him to rest properly, and also for killin' the beast that laid him low.

The older Gnome has a fine goatee and mustache, his clothes are of fine quality, it's hard to tell gnomes ages, but he looks to be middle age, his wife a rather Rubenesque lady who has a face that you see is more used to smiling than holding back tears, she clutches her shawl around her with a nervous hand.

Mr. Zarrudanin steps up and bows. T'was a fine thing you did, and I'm grateful. Rolly was a headstrong boy, but he had a good heart, I tried to dissuade him of his adventuring ways, but... he sighs...A wild heart must have its way. he wipes a tear from his eyes... He was our youngest, and his mom's baby .

Mrs. Whistlebraid bites her lip and looks equal parts sad and terrified, it's pretty clear she does not trust herself to speak.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells d20+14=32 ;
Thursday May 13th, 2021 10:46:15 AM
'Lil is real torn.

Was it brave for the kid to go off, or was it just dumb and boastful? She decides without knowin' what the kid was capable of, she couldn't make that call. She also knows digging around to come up with an answer don't serve no one. Regardless, it was a senseless death that didn't accomplish nothing good. 'Lil could handle eulogizing folks what died in service accomplishing something, but this poor kid just went out with big dreams and got himself killed almost immediately. It's important to be brave, but you don't need to go leaving your family behind to prove it. She gulps at the lesson as it hits close to home. She should write Ma a letter.

She seems the missus can't bring herself to talk, and that's fine. 'Lil instead walks up to her, takes a knee, and holds her. "I know I'm a priest of the god of bravery, and I'm real sorry if that's a little on the nose for you right now. I'll ask the big guy if he'd mind doing what he can to help your son and the rest of you." She stands when the missus is ready for her to, and addresses the crowd.

"It's good to be brave and face danger to help your friends and family. Sometimes it takes more bravery to admit to those friends and family that you ain't ready to face that kind of danger head on. I don't know Rolly's life story and won't make that call for him. We don't always get the chance to avoid danger, but when we do, we should make sure we make the right call." She'll look any youngsters in the eye who 'Lil thinks need to hear this message (sense motive 32 to pick'em out of the crowd).

She hopes it was the right thing to say. She really doesn't want to give a "your son died as a warning to others" message. That wasn't cool and just reduced a life to a quippy talkin' point.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Thursday May 13th, 2021 12:12:58 PM
Spinning around Haemir suddenly finds himself face-to-face with Daphisany, emotions and all.
The elation of his first ever performance evaporates, his voice fails and he freezes in a slightly awkward pose.

A few seconds later he breathes a sigh of relief, after Lil steps in and not just saves him, but dose so gracefully!
He can't help but be stunned. In a few seconds the cleric gave a performance that would probably stay with some of the crowd forever!

He wasn't entirely sure why but he was glad none of the crew were called Mike or Mic, coz after that speech - they would so be dropped next to the cleric!

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill)
Thursday May 13th, 2021 4:23:10 PM

A four foot tall humanoid black bear enthusiastically claps his hands together. "Huzzah and well said! Allow me to introduce myself...I am Herbert Bramblerose, at your service! It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance; you look to be good folk...I am looking for others to right wrongs with." He smiles in eagerness, warm brown eyes lighting up with excitement. Herbert wears a chainmail shirt with green clothes and a cloak. He wears an open face helm and has a sword and other weapons at his side...the bulge on his back indicates a traveling pack and gear under his cloak. His feet shuffle in excitement....he is a rather happy little fellow.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Thursday May 13th, 2021 5:06:50 PM

The fact that he's a beastkin makes her more nervous, not less. She was working under the assumption that every beastkin out there knew more about their own weird and fledgling race than she did, and that made her defensive.

She couldn't help but think though, that something about his cute little foot shuffle and how well spoken he was...brought out a bit of a smile.

"Well, hello to you Mister Bramblerose. I'm Princess Akuno. Now now, no need to bow or anything, out here were all on even footing!" As she says this, she nestles a bit more into her forest of pillows and cushions. She's also squeezing.. something invisible.. against her chest. "Frank and I are pleased to meet you." One eyebrow arches up, appraising the young bear-man. "Tell me, how do you right wrongs, Mister Bramblerose? What's your specialty? And finally.." ..her eyes seem to get a bit more excited as she pushes through the small talk. "Whats your chest size? Do you have any cloth allergies? Over heat easily? Pants preference? And finally, how do you feel about ascots?" As she barrages him with questions, she's merrily instructing the invisible, whatever it is, to flip to different pages in a book full of wonderfully illustrated fancy suits and dresses.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday May 13th, 2021 5:07:16 PM
"It was indeed brave of Rolly and his friends to go look for crystals to increase their wealth and help their families. Though knowledge of the dangers is essential. I implore any of you that know of such dangerous creatures to let us know, so that others may not fall to Rolly's fate. I don't mean hunting bears to prove your courage, I talk of dangerous beasts like this Remorhaz. I myself was almost killed by it. Untrained treasure hunters don't stand a chance, even though they are brave like Rolly."

Thorondir turns to the parents "Your son was very brave."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday May 13th, 2021 5:23:42 PM
Sol, his dirty blond hair half up half down, comes past the bear as it speaks, he stands, mouth agape for a moment, and looks the beastkin up and down.

He then shakes his head as if to bring himself back to his senses.

"Not the strangest thing I have seen on our journey."

He seems to pass by the family that have lost their son, apparently at a loss as to how to comfort them and not certain anything he can say will do any good at all, once they have left he smiles widely, and it comes out with a practiced and oft used ease.

"Good to meet you Bramblerose, please forgive Akuno, she gets very excitable. Though one question that would be useful and important to get out of the way is where do your skills lie?"

He then whispers to Akuno, not so quietly that you cannot hear, and with a soothing sort of voice.

"Do not worry, we can find out his clothing preferences later, but for now it may be good just to discover what he is capable of."

He then gestures to the Sentinels, and includes the two newcomers.

"Well, first round is on me, what would people like to drink?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday May 13th, 2021 5:34:07 PM
"Oh sorry, I didn't notice you. Too caught up with the family of the recently deceased I guess."

Thorondir, an elf with all the trappings of a druid speaks to Bramblerose.
"Do you speak bear?" Thorondir then starts a series of growls asking about where Bramblerose is from, and what he likes to do.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill)
Thursday May 13th, 2021 5:37:37 PM
"Hullo, Your Highness! Pleased to meet you" Herbert bobs his head a little. "Oh. Well. I believe in protecting those who can't protect themselves. I am a formidable opponent on the field, despite my size...or maybe because of?" He shrugs. "I also have a knack for bringing people...together" he says as he laces his handpaw fingers together. His green shied has a simple heraldic design...a bright yellow sunflower. "Oh, as for something to drink," he says, licking his lips, "I'd love a nice mead!"

DM Shane - The Map
Thursday May 13th, 2021 11:07:14 PM
Almost as though a dam has burst Mrs Whistlebraid latches on to LIl and begins to cry softly, you hear her whisper in your ear. I'm so sorry, when I heard you had killed a terrible best, I assumed you'd be beasts yourself in the clothes of men. Thank you for the kind words and the offer to intercede with the god of bravery. Mr. Zarrudanin, places a gentle hand on her back, and looks concerned, his look says "she's in pain, but I hope she's not offending the heroes." caught between care for his wife, not wishing to offend and the pain of losing a son, he stands there. Eventually Bill, with surprising gentleness and tact gets them to disengage and leave.

Akuno does not quite know what to think of the new guy, but if he likes clothes they should get along just fine.

Haemir enraptures the rest of the bar with his telling of the tale, The gnomes roar with cheers and pound their shoulders in what for gnomes is applause, they also line up to buy the crew drinks.

Sol introduces himself to Mr. Bramblerose, and offers to buy the drinks, only to find that it has been taken care of.

Thorondir offers condolences to the deceased's family and introduces himself to the new guy.

folk pile into the bar, all eager to see the trophy, the tale is told and retold growing in the telling both form the embellishments of gossip and the inebriated state of the bar patrons. Gnomish ale and spirits don't pack the kick that dwarven brews do, but they do have other effects. Colors look sharper and things seem to move at the corners of your vision. Your thoughts remain clear, but a kind of psychedelic euphoria suffices your being becoming deeper and more profound as you drink. various gnomes, both male and female make it quite clear that should you wish company for the night, they are available and eager. Bill once again quietly weeds out the working folk and the grifters, making sure that you aren't being suckered into losing your gold. You would not have noticed, but the Green Gnomish, seems to have sharpened your perception.

How many drinks to you let the bar patrons buy you? Each of you give me a number.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Friday May 14th, 2021 3:32:21 PM
Another beastperson? That was interesting. 'Lil didn't think this one looked like the sort to replace Akuno's long-lost dogboy, but that's fine.

"'Lil," she says as an introduction while offerin' Bill a hand to shake. She's human, average height but solidly built. She didn't wear her armor to the party, so her low-cut top reveals a symbol of Domi tattooed on her chest. Her red hair's been bleached a bit by the sun since she arrived in Sargrass, and her skin's darker than it's ever been.

She'll have 1 drink if it's a gnomish. Two otherwise.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert S)
Friday May 14th, 2021 3:47:50 PM
Once you all have acquainted yourself with Herbert, and the matter with the gnomes is resolved, a stocky, heavily muscled dwarf walks up to the group. He wears brightly polished plate armor with gilt work along the edges, underneath a purple tabard and cloak. At his side, a heavy falchion rests, its bright red hilt and silvery pommel pointing to the party. His long, black, luxurious beard flows down across his chest, and his mustaches are braided, with a golden ring around the end of each. He catches your attention, and gives a polite nod of respect.

"Well met, fellow adventurers! The tales of your exploits are quite impressive indeed. Would you perchance be looking for assistance in future endeavors? I am a quite capable warrior myself, and have been looking for companions to help me vanquish the various evils of this world."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday May 14th, 2021 6:33:21 PM
"Rurik is it? I'm Thorondir. By the looks of your falchion we could have used your muscle dealing with the Remorhaz. Do you have plans, or would you like to sail with us along the Sargrass. I know it just looks like tall grass, but there are a lot of hidden dangers in it. You are welcome to join, if the others are fine with it."

Thorondir will have 3 gnomish drinks.

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Friday May 14th, 2021 8:12:06 PM

Akuno smiles at Rurik too. How fortunate! She herself knew a thing or two about getting along perfectly with dwarves. "Yes, well hello Rurik! From the looks of things, you'd have shorn the beard right off the chin if you were with us! Strong fighters are always welcome!" She leans forward as far as her assorted pillows will let her. "Between us, our last frontline fighter didn't like me much. Our relationship was sort of a watered down stout, and went down sour!" She gives a smug wink. "But I'm sure you and I will get along like hops and barley!"

After that masterclass in racial relations, she sure was thirsty. Though only 27 lbs soaking wet, she will accept drinks for long as they keep coming. "Why thank you!" she smiles to anyone buying, and winks at 'Lil. "See!, she whispers. "They like me! They really like me!" This was the taste of adventure she sought. More deeds like this, and people would be knocking down her door to find out who she was and where she came from. One of those would eventually be her parents! Of that, she was certain.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill)
Friday May 14th, 2021 11:04:56 PM
Herbert turns to Rurik; "Yes! Another brother in arms! We will join this fine crew and do good and worthy deeds!" Herbert beams with pride. "Oh! I've never had gnomish brew before...it seems like my horizons are going to be broadened!" As he reaches for a tankard, Herbert knocks it over in his excitement. "Oops...I'm..I'm sorry. I didn't mean to do that. Here, let me help clean that up. May I have a rag please? And another drink? I won't spill this one...I promise!"

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday May 14th, 2021 11:15:57 PM
Something about Herbert endears Haemir immediately. Maybe he reminds him of another beast-folk or maybe it's his happy, enthusiasm?
"A knack for bringing people together? Sounds intriging".

Haemir will drink, spacing them out and taking note off the effects. He also enquires what the ale is and may have more later.
Fand keeps an eye on him.

He greets Rurik as well. Looking the muscled dwarf up and down he whistles. "Fer sure we could use your skills as well, maybe you n' Master Bramblerose would like to explore the Sargrass Plains with us"? These two looked like fine additions. "Assuming the other Sentinels are ok with it? I'd be honoured to have you both along. Do you know much about the Sargrass"?

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert S)
Monday May 17th, 2021 2:20:15 PM
Rurik is slightly taken aback by the rather flamboyant display of personality, though he doesn't let it show. The heroes and adventurers in the legends he was told wouldn't be so bumbling, and his old traveling companions when he was in the army would have certainly been less boisterous. He chalks it up to a quirk of the thin beards (gnomes and halflings) and twicelings (anyone taller than a dwarf) and takes a seat.

"I'm afraid I know little of the area, Haemir. I have only just recently arrived, and have yet to find a task suitable for my purposes, until now. But I thank you all for the warm welcome."

He accepts a drink from one of the passerby, but presses a coin into their hand.

"These tasks were not done by me, it is not my right to accept other's glory." Turning back to address the rest of the party, taking a short sip from his drink, "Not as good as the stuff back home" he thinks, and he continues.

"Speaking of such things, what plans did you all have in mind after defeating that monster? I assume you have some greater mission in mind. What evil do we seek to vanquish?"

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Monday May 17th, 2021 2:25:43 PM
OOC:

Hello new players!

You undoubtedly see that many of us are using bolds and italics. Without copying the extra space, [b ] and [/b ] will bold things between them. [i ] and [/i ] for italics.

To post your link to your character sheet in your header, use the following.

[ link href="REPLACETHISTEXTWITHTHELINKTOYOURPROFILE"] Charactername [/link ]

Also, for the DM's aid, please put your hp current/max, AC, and other necessary informations.

------------------------------------------------------------

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Monday May 17th, 2021 9:33:41 PM
"Nailed it," 'Lil whispers to Akuno. She watches the girl's drinking, making sure she don't end up pickling herself. She'll try to talk the catgirl out of drinking a Green Gnomish if Akuno tries.

"Only the evils of doubt and worry right now," 'Lil answers Rurik. "That worm head is to show the folks back at New Rattledam, and anyone else what's thinking of joining us, that we're capable of offering protection. We ain't found no big evil to fight yet, but we seem to have a knack for making druids angry at us." She gives a nod to Thorondir. "Present company excluded...well, usually excluded." She smiles, showin' she ain't totally serious.

"But, we're probably heading back there after we leave here. New Rattledam's a new community with a lot of history. We need people to make it grow, but gettin' there is dangerous. It's why we went and found what we need for our ship. If yer both interested, we could use all the bodies we can get."

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday May 17th, 2021 9:41:57 PM
OOC

Yeah I found the style guide thing on the Woldpedia I just kinda goofed with closing the bracket there. I'll update the header accordingly! Does this work? Any other info I should put there?

[OOC: Fixed header formatting -- Cayzle]

Gnomish drinks! (DM Cayzle)
Monday May 17th, 2021 11:20:55 PM

There are gnomish drinks and there are gnomish drinks. The green ones are the most notorious! Known the Wold over, in fact.

If anyone wants to try a regular green gnomish ... please make a DC18 Fortitude save.
If you make the save, Highlight to display spoiler: {you feel pleasantly inebriated}
If you fail by 1-5 points, then Highlight to display spoiler: {you feel nauseated}
If you fail by 6+ points, then Highlight to display spoiler: {you pass out}

If anyone wants to try a flaming green gnomish ... please make a DC20 Fortitude save.
If you make the save, Highlight to display spoiler: {you feel pleasantly inebriated}
If you fail by 1-5 points, then Highlight to display spoiler: {you feel nauseated and fatigued}
If you fail by 6+ points, then Highlight to display spoiler: {you get obnoxiously drunk, projectile vomit, then pass out}

If anyone asks for a non-alcoholic drink, the bartender apologizes and say that he has no one here who can teleport.

For the Flaming Green Gnomishes, each one after the first increases the save DC by 4.

[OOC to new Woldians (and a reminder to old ones) ... when a DM puts text in spoiler tags, only read it if you are the intended reader. Cheating is a bad idea.]

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+5=7 ;
Monday May 17th, 2021 11:52:30 PM
Thorondir is set to have three of the famous green gnomish drinks. He has heard so much about them, certainly this will be a treat he will remember for a long time.

"Here is to you, my old friends and new ones. Let us continue to fight with honor and courage when necessary, but for now let us enjoy a few of the famous gnomish drinks."

He takes the first drink, and decides to swallow it down in one quick gulp.

****Thorondir passes out and hits the floor****

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+4=11 ;
Tuesday May 18th, 2021 1:51:00 AM
Sol, with great apprehension tries the regular, his fortitude is not exactly top notch, so he fears this may be a bad idea.

"I have a bad feeling about this... but nothing ventured nothing gained!" He takes a drink, and at first seems fine, but by the end of the drink, he has slumped down on the floor next to Thorondir.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+9=29 ;
Tuesday May 18th, 2021 12:11:58 PM
Taking another sip of the flaming green gnomish, Rurik looks at it in surprise.

By my beard! That's quite a bit more powerful than I had expected! Perhaps these gnomish drinks aren't a wash after all...almost as good as the stuff back home."

Looking around at the fate of his new companions, he chuckles softly as he takes another sip, and mutters "I'd recommend not trying to out drink a dwarf in the future, for your own health."

Putting his drink down on the table, he stands up and walks over to his collapsed comrades, checking to make sure they are alright. He props them up with cushions so they won't hurt themselves, and leaves a canteen of water between them in easy reach for when they wake up, and leaves them to sleep it off.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+8=19 ;
Tuesday May 18th, 2021 3:16:35 PM
After the performance Haemir was handed an ale and downs it in one. It wasn't till people started passing out that he took stock and chuckles - 'Flaming Green Gnomish'. (Fort:19). Considering himself lucky to have survived one (a feat he'd rarely done), he notes he's already pleasantly inebriated and stops there. He does have a grin on his face.

Fand gives Haemir a judgmental look of disdain - or she could just be stretching? She definitely shakes her head though and strolls over, flops down and curls up guarding the propped up heroes...

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp d20=5 ;
Tuesday May 18th, 2021 3:53:33 PM

Akuno finishes about an eighth of a mug before some apparently casts Earthquake on the room. She eyes Rurik suspiciously. "Oy! Did you poison me?!", and the she's done. She flops face first onto her bench full of pillows, and dreams of unicorns and princesses being chased by flaming green gnomes.

DM Shane - The Map
Tuesday May 18th, 2021 10:14:20 PM
The day arrives in the mountains like a lightning bolt. they light from the sun hitting you like Domi's own fire of judgment. The pain is real, aching head, sick to your stomach, joint aches and photophobia. (those of you who failed the save), you find you are surrounded by piles of gnomes who have either passed out or decided that sleeping beside the Sentinels was as good a place as any.

the time after the drinks is a bit blurry.

Akuno remembers vague memories of gnomes chanting something about princess neko and rubbing her ears.

Thorondir remembers someone yelling "We're going to Cloud City! and then blackness.

Haemir reaffirms to himself that babysitting drunks are not as much fun as it sounds.

Sol you wake up wearing someone else's clothes. that person is a gnome because they are not your size. looking to your right you see your clothes with a small gnome-shaped lump snoring away with it's tiny limbs 1/3 the way down the sleeves and pants legs.

Lil Awakens to a bight beautiful day, laying in her bed at the inn.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday May 18th, 2021 10:36:57 PM
OOC: My timing is all off this week...

'Lil decided someone needed to not pass out last night, so she played Den mother. Good thing she's strong enough to hoist all her dudes over her shoulder and into bed. She ain't sure where Sol ran off to, but hopes he had a good time. At least Haemir kept her company.

She stretches, somewhat contented by the fact that she's probably the only one of her little gang who's going to have a good morning. She goes downstairs and does a headcount of anyone who ain't up yet, then orders up some eggs and fruit for breakfast with a few jugs of water. She'll also grab some kippers, lox, or other breakfast fish for Akuno if they have any. She runs the lot up to her companions, fighting off the memories of doing this most mornings for Ma.

She instructs her hungover friends to drink and eat, offering the food at first and ramping up her insistence if they resist. She wanted to get going back home.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill)
Tuesday May 18th, 2021 11:11:01 PM
Herbert had mustered up the courage to try the strange brew, but after seeing what happened to his new friends Thank anyway, but I realize that I'm not that thirsty. And I shouldn't drink on an empty stomach... and tries to look nonchalant...

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday May 19th, 2021 12:24:45 PM
"Are we in Cloud City?"

Thorondir props himself up on one elbow and looks around. It doesn't seem like a cloud city, but he is certain he was going there last night. He then notices 'Lil offering food to him and the others laying about.

"'Lil, did we go to Cloud City? What happened? Perhaps the gnomes put a spell on us, something doesn't feel right."

Thorondir nibbles at the food and takes a long drink of water.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Wednesday May 19th, 2021 3:46:02 PM
Rurik walks into the main room, armor freshly polished and beard perfectly braided, not a hair out of place, as if he hadn't drunk anything at all last night. He nods to the rest of the party and sits down, taking a plate of eggs.

"Not used to drinking, Thorondir?" He raises an eyebrow. "Don't worry, while it may feel like your skull's a forge for now, it shall pass with time. No spells, just unusually strong alcohol for a non dwarven brew. For now, eat, drink, and be as merry as you can while we plan our adventure ahead."

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Wednesday May 19th, 2021 5:55:23 PM
"Pretty sure you went somewhere last night, but your body was safe and sound here." She nods approvingly as her druid dude eats. "What's Cloud City, anyway? That some kinda sky grove or something?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+7=14 ;
Wednesday May 19th, 2021 8:55:30 PM
Haemir is sat staring at a bowl of fruit. Beside it lays a crumpled copy of the Sargrass Gazette.
"If you know next t'nothing about the plains, there's some light reading for breakfast" he says without taking his eyes from the bowl, he does however, playfully smirk.

Unable to resist any longer he picks out some apples and begins juggling. (Sleight of hand 14 - nothing spectacular but not embarassing). Gradually he finds a rhythm - and has breakfast at the same time.

Afterwards: "So, New Rattledam anyone"?

DM Shane - The Map
Wednesday May 19th, 2021 10:13:14 PM
OOC; let me apologize to Hurbert and Rurik, I'm not used to you guys yet and I clean forgot to mention you in the last post.
Herbert shows great wisdom, it's a rare being that can learn from another being's misfortune.

Rurik Knowing that a hungover person hates to condescension and cheerful folk the most in the morning is off to a great start!

Lil gods bless her, she steps up to tend the wounded like a champ.

Thorondir questions the distorted memories of last nigh, he is able to get some food down though.

Haemir offers the newcomers some light reading. good information for anyone traveling the plains. he also puts forth the question on everyone's mind. "where to now?" New Rattledam was on your list was it not?

Akuno does not want to wake up, life is painful and the dream she is having is sweet.

Sol is still trying to figure out the enigma of the clothes.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Wednesday May 19th, 2021 11:25:34 PM
Oooh! That's a neat trick! Herbert says to Haemir, with barking laughter as he claps his paws. Herbert keeps his distance though...he knows how clumsy he is and doesn't want to ruin the display. What's New Rattledam?

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+9=11 ;
Thursday May 20th, 2021 7:22:36 AM
Haemir continues juggling as he speaks: "There aren't many settlements within the plains. So far we've found a Stone Temple, n' an abandoned settlement called Rattledam. A few years ago we helped escort some people there n' helped start a rebuild. We named it 'New Rattledam'. Must confess I'm itching to see how it's doing! It's about a week's sail"...
---

(This time he concentrates (using his 'Guide' ability for a +2): Sleight of hand 11 - still not terrible).

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday May 20th, 2021 4:06:15 PM
"That sounds like a good idea. I imagine that settlements are quite prone to failure in such dangerous lands." Stroking his beard, he looks off in the distance thoughtfully. "Are there any supplies or such things we should try to bring them? Or perhaps try to establish a trading route between this area and the settlement?"

OOC
Would drunkenness/hangover count as a disease?

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Thursday May 20th, 2021 5:56:58 PM
Finally, thinks 'Lil to herself. She plays it cool, though.

"Yeah, let's start heading back to New Rattledam. We've been gone too long already." She'll do what she can to help make things go quicker.

CDM Jerry [OOC post]
Thursday May 20th, 2021 6:55:01 PM
Hear Ye Hear Ye!

I'm starting a Woldian recruitment blitz to fill what looks to be 10 spots. We have 2 new games starting which accounts for 6 of the openings. The other 4 are in existing non-veteran games. The two new games will be called:

Bearclaw Keep
and
Heranmar.

The icons for these are already up on in the Career Games section, but the links just go to the LnB until the games begin. [THANKS ROB FOR DESIGNING THOSE!!!]

I want to start with recruiting from 1) you good people and 2) inactive players.
SO!!! If you have a friend [someone that still talks to you] talk to them and see if they want to play! All they have to do to start the progress is to email me. [gericko@gmail.com].

I am going to send out some emails starting tonight to former players so I do not know whether this push will fill us up quickly or not. :) Better to play it on the safe side and talk to your friends immediately!

Enjoy your evening and the weekend AND talking to your friends about joining us!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday May 20th, 2021 8:50:38 PM
“I’m not sure of what Cloud City is” Thorondir says to ‘Lil
“Perhaps it is a place you visit in your mind, but last night is too foggy to remember. I’m with Haemir, let’s get on our way before they offer more drinks to us.”

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Thursday May 20th, 2021 10:18:01 PM
I'd like to help, in any way I can! Besides, there's a big, wide world out there to see...and I want to see all of it! Herbert says with his usual exuberance.

DM Shane - The Map
Thursday May 20th, 2021 11:20:50 PM
Herbert finds Haemir's trick to be quite to his liking. but has questions about the land in which they will be traveling.

Haemir Juggles and is glad to answer Herberts questions.

Rurik speaks with dwarven pragmatism about survival in a wild place. blunt, but no one can deny the truth of his words.

Lil is ready to get back to the ship and get going!

Thorondir cannot recall "cloud city" other than hearing it before he passed out. One of the Gnomes laying on the floor helps him out.
Ah! Cloud City. it's in the Continent of Yrth. a floating city! A city in the Air! I' have always wanted to visit and perhaps...yes!...live there.

Sol This Gnomes under ware is too tight.

The crews get around, vestments are exchanged and various hangover cures are tried until a little after noon folk feel good enough to make the trek down to the boat.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday May 21st, 2021 12:08:30 AM
“I’m not sure of what Cloud City is” Thorondir says to ‘Lil
“Perhaps it is a place you visit in your mind, but last night is too foggy to remember. I’m with Haemir, let’s get on our way before they offer more drinks to us.”

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday May 21st, 2021 1:46:55 AM
Sol shakes his head.

"That was very rough... I would prefer to not do that again. Haemir! Remind me not to drink incredibly strong liquor again!"

He certainly looks a little worse for wear even after the healing/recovering is completed, and he returns to the ship with the others.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday May 21st, 2021 4:50:09 AM
Haemir will quickly divert to one of the shops to buy a replacement scroll (for the one used during his spontaneous performance). Then off to the Maiden.

To Herbert: "Well Master Bramblerose it is indeed a vast land, come explore with us".
To Rurik: "Our first job was to find this city. It may sound strange but the Plains kind of shifted a while back n' even cities moved! I think they called it the great migration, but having re-found it now - establishing a trade route is possible".

Haemir smiles at Sol: "The problem is we all say we will never drink again after a hang-over, yet"...

"You guys will love our ship. Try not to fall overboard though! There will be a 20-30 feet drop n' a hard landing. Plus some of the grass is as sharp as glass so.. Oh did we tell you? The Maiden drifts across the top of the grass" he says with a proud grin.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday May 21st, 2021 6:51:39 AM
(OOC: to answer your question Robert - I think it counts as poison).

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+11=23 ;
Friday May 21st, 2021 10:37:03 AM
Also Haemir finds a quiet spot in the early hours and meditates (acquiring his spell slots back) successfully.
---

(Concentration:23 Vs Dc13)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Friday May 21st, 2021 4:24:44 PM

At some point, Akuno had to have woken up. She's in a giant floating disk, which she obviously had to cast, and is covered in pillows and ice packs created by her Rose's Temp Control spell. An unseen servant pulls her tiny magical chariot forward until it hits a wall of the above decks cabin. Being mindless, it just runs into the barrier over and over again.

The jolt is small, barely noticeable, but its enough to elicit a yowl and a hiss from Akuno. "Stupid servant!" She rolls onto her back, face covered with a pillow. "Lil'.", she whispers. "Come closer and hear my final will and testament. I bequeath it all to you, just promise to wear the dress on page forty to my funeral."

A small arm weakly waves a book about, the page doesn't even have a dress. Instead, its got rather revealing undergarments, designed for sleeping cool in the summertime.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Friday May 21st, 2021 11:29:23 PM
Herbert starts dancing a jaunty little jig, excited about exploring the world in this magnificent boat and a party of stalwart adventurers, and is honored to be welcomed by them. Then he trips and falls on his bum.

Back to the Ship (DM Cayzle)
Saturday May 22nd, 2021 12:17:34 AM

The trek from the gnomish city back to the edge of the plains takes most of a day, on a track that passes through rocky terrain laced with snow and ice, until, like a volcanic island meeting the sandy shore, you arrive at the plains.

Walking toward your ship, Thorondir and 'Lil chat while Sol nurses his aching head.

Akuno suffers the aftereffects too, in her own inimitable way.

Haemir tries to prepare Rurik and Herbert for the experience to come, but his words fail to do justice.

At last you see the Sargrass Plains. The tall grasses undulate in the dry wind, and the analogy to ocean waves is a good one. So too, the druidwood ship floats on the grasses, a sailing vessel designed to sail without a body of water.

[OOC: Please, my friends, do give our two new players a tour of the ship, and introduce them to the crew!]

Soon it is time to cast off!

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Sunday May 23rd, 2021 4:12:13 PM
(OOC Haemir is discreet about being a witch). Before leaving the city he hires a room and talks to his New Rattledam coven member through his cauldron and enquires what stuff/supplies the settlement needs. The party has 1,490 gold (and all we need), so he'll suggest a few things he 'thinks' will trade well and happily donate his share. Depending on what funds are raised he will arrange for a delivery and fill up the cargo space as much as possible, suggesting any profit goes back in to the party pool.

On the way to the Maiden...
"Three years ago a few of us were hired by a Duke in Hook City to come here n' tame the wilds for him n' set up a base of operations. Several ships set off but we lost one when it sunk in a mist. After we arrived however, people started filtering in, sometimes overland, n' of course we met people along the way. We also found a ruins that used to be a settlement called Rattledam. It had been protected somehow from the grasses by a dome. The dome was gone, but some of the structures where still there, so we figured it was as good a place as any, if not better to create this base. Construction started n' we went in search of some druid wood to make The Maiden. Eventually found some, but we also found a second settlement - a Stone Temple where some monks live n' we settled there whilst she was built. 28 months it took. So, we haven't seen New Rattledam in three years n' I'm quite excited to see how it's doing"!
---

(As for the Maiden - here is everything we know so far. Refs: the only dimension I have seen was 20 x 20 ft, but that wouldn't fit the 14 people on and 5 tonnes of cargo, so maybe that was the druid wood at the base. Any thoughts on size?).

The Maiden.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Monday May 24th, 2021 12:22:16 PM
Getting back to the Maiden Thorondir calls for Aewen. A golden eagle flies down and lands on the ships railing next to him.
"This is Aewen, she is my friend and companion. She is also an excellent scout, and flies above the ship on occasion."

He gestures for Rurick and Herbert to follow him. "Over here is my chortle berry bush, please don't pick the berries. I use them to make goodberries, which provide a whole meal and healing for those that eat them. Ah, here he is. This is Talpid, my mole friend. He lives in the pot beneath the bush. He is excellent at sensing tremors, and is just a good guy."

Thorondir seems very proud of his berry bush and his friends.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday May 24th, 2021 1:57:54 PM
Nodding along to Haemir's explanation, Rurik looks around the ship, marveling in the craftsmanship of the wood and the spaciousness of the vessel.

"It is good that people are reclaiming the wild lands, I have some experience with that myself. Albeit deep in long forgotten caves and tunnels, the creatures lurking there and challenges faced were just as dangerous as any here."

Turning to Thorondir and gesturing to the ship, he continues "This is quite an impressive ship, especially so far inland. I am not used to such....luxurious accommodations, particularly while travelling.
Nor to so many tamed beast either." He squats down, looking at Talpid in his pot

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Monday May 24th, 2021 4:44:39 PM

Akuno watches Rurik on his free tour of the ship. She keeps an eye on the bear-boy, and scribbling small notes in her picture of book of fancy things. She keeps flipping back to a red sou'wester hat and a smart jacket of blue twill with yellow fasteners. Her book called it, "The Paddington."

"Cute.". she says. Then she tucks it away and joins in to the new person tour. "If either of you newbies need anything, let me know. I'll get my people on it. Now that your all here, I'm not exactly the green horn anymore." She's got a challenging look in her eyes, even though the statement is a bit absurd. Even for a beastfolk, Akuno is pretty young looking.

Ruriks underwear has probably seen more adventure than she has.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday May 24th, 2021 5:56:49 PM
Sol, still nursing a hangover head, remains somewhat quiet, but still does his best to smile as he normally does, though it's not as bright and seems to be twinged with pain.

"I have not felt this bad in a very long time... but getting underway would do plenty to life my spirits. Where are we going to now?"

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Monday May 24th, 2021 9:33:27 PM
Herbert's honey brown eyes grow wide at all the new sights. Oh my stars and garters, but she is lovely!, Herbert whispers. I know that I have not seen a lot in my young life, but this is glorious! I cannot wait to help the helpless, home the homeless, feed the feedless and save the saveless! Herbert draws his blade and strikes a heroic pose, I swear on my mother's paws, Evil, the Sentinels will tree you but good!

DM Shane - The Map
Monday May 24th, 2021 11:20:16 PM
Haemir gives a pretty good rundown of the events for the past 3 years. (yes the ship is 20 x20 x20. it's got two decks plus the hold so it's actually got about 60' of on-board space. it's still a tiny ship but it can hold the cargo and people. folk are just really really friendly with each other on it.)

Thorondir introduces the new hires to his garden and menagerie

Rurik seems quite enamored with the tiny ship. he is right though. the craftsmanship on it is superb from a usability perspective, but a bit rough from a pure esthetic viewpoint.

Sol finds the conversation is hard when your head hurts. but like the trooper he is he proves that just because you are miserable does not mean you cannot be pleasant.

Akuno welcomes the new guys onto the ship as only she is able.

The rest of the crew introduce themselves.

Donald 1st-Mate - a competent but a bit rough. not above thumping a head to get things done.

Thomas XO/ships pilot - smart, educated, but also a bit rough. cusses like a sailor.

Randy Sailing master/ships carpenter - older, salty, quiet, has a sneaky sense of humor.

Bob ships surgeon/cook - called 'Bones' by the crew, good with a knife, really outgoing guy, totally unaffected by gore. but runs a clean kitchen and operating room.

Lance Chief Boatswain - a decent half-orc who knows rope like you would not believe.

Padre ABS Bosuns mate - loves to talk, good at it. Can climb rigging like a monkey

Mark ABS carpenters apprentice - big-bearded, lots of scars, does not drink on the boat.

Lucas ABS - a.k.a. 'the kid', still a really good sailor.

Tim ABS/Ships Marine - a good sailor, retired Mailed Fist mercenary, bloody-minded, works all conversations back around to some form of combat. really talented at doing it though…

The ship heads off toward New Rattledamn. the sun is warm and the dry wind from the sargrass keep you cool till the sweat drys. You are on your way. adventure awaits.

'Lil - (Carl) - 50/50 HP - AC 21/14/19 - CMD 17 Spells
Tuesday May 25th, 2021 1:45:07 AM
'Lil spends most of the trip above deck, just enjoying the peace.

***

OOC: Sorry, really rough few days that came outta no where.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Tuesday May 25th, 2021 2:06:53 PM
Rurik settles in to his accommodations easily, accustomed to sleeping in strange places. He's just thankful to have a proper bed! He gets to know the other party members, and the crew of the ship, but feels a little uncomfortable around Akuno, her brash nature clashing with his more reserved personality, but remains polite and calm regardless.

He spends much of his time meditating, both to simply clear his mind of distractions and to think about his duties. A stranger in a strange land, he hopes that he is strong enough to meet whatever challenges the world places before him, and that he is able to remain unyielding to the forces of evil.

To that end he ensures that both his equipment and body are in top shape, spending a large amount of time polishing and sharpening his gear, and making sure that not only is it serviceable but it is pristine. After all, a knight is supposed to serve as a grand beacon of hope, and he could hardly be that in battered rusty armor. He also spends much time exercising himself, both through basic workouts and practicing his sword forms (although he ensures he is taking proper precautions when there are others nearby).

"I must be strong to carry out my duty. To do my duty is the path to honor. And my honor is my life."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Tuesday May 25th, 2021 4:47:17 PM
With the wind in his hair and the gentle hiss of the grass, Haemir's face seems more relaxed and he looks younger.

At some point: "There's a couple of things you should know. Water is your enemy as well as your friend in the plains. If you were to openly drink from your waterskin you'll attract monsters, they can smell it from miles away you see. Always carry a cloth when it's hot, which is always! Sweat is not as bad, but it's hot here. Dab it n' pocket the cloth if you perspire. So, we have a few bags with pocket dimensional spaces, the waterskin stays in there n' we use a long straw. Also just so you know, we put a condiment called Dhashalainn into tour food, it decreases the amount of water a person needs to drink. May not be important to those with the ability to create water, but very important to the people living here. Plus it makes you not need to let the water out as much. I think it's a bad thing. Makes life much easier".
---

(OOC: Monsters can sense water, but I made up the bit about sweat). :-)

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Tuesday May 25th, 2021 4:50:12 PM
(sorry typo) "don't think it's a bad thing".

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday May 25th, 2021 10:27:32 PM
It has been a while and Thorondir was almost killed by that monster. It is time to get back to his true self. He shape shifts into an eagle and he and Aewen fly high above the ship.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday May 25th, 2021 10:48:46 PM
Herbert is inspired by the ship, crew, stories and just the feel of the breeze on his fur, and bursts into song... So blow the winds high-ho! A-roving we will go!
We sail on the grasses with the lads and lasses to lands a-far away!
New Rattledam, we come! Sending Evil on the run!
We're the Sentinel Band, with a helping hand, across the Sargass Plain!

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Tuesday May 25th, 2021 11:44:08 PM

Akuno keeps mostly to Lil's company during the travel. From time to time she ventures out to remind the others that she exists.

DM Shane - The Map
Wednesday May 26th, 2021 12:22:32 AM
sailing the Sargrass is an interesting experience. calming in a way. the sussurss of the grass as it bends away from the bottom of the boat to let it pass and the wind rubbing the stalks together. At times the random noise sounds like music. other times voices, but indistinct. It makes you think that if you were a little smarter, maybe a little wiser you could tease meaning out of the sounds. but it's always just barely past your understanding.

the crew really takes to Herbert. (they like to sing as well. so you'll fit right in). and they regale him with a song or their own! (see bottom of the post )

Lil relaxes in the sun,

Rurik proves to be a true Adept, meditating and ensuring his gear and body are up to snuff.

Thorondir Enjoys the sun as well, flying above the Maiden and letting the wind carry him.

Haemir warns the crew about playing loose with the water. a commodity so precious in the Sargrass that you will attract every creature within 5 miles if you spill it.

The ship sailes on. with Herbers ditty and then later the crew's song taking them into the evening.

March to Cambreath.

Axes flash, broadsword swing
Shining armour's piercing ring
Horses run with polished shield
Fight Those devils till They Yield
Midnight mare and blood red roan
Fight to Keep this Land Your Own
Sound the horn and call the cry
How Many of Them Can We Make Die!

Follow orders as you're told
Make Their Yellow Blood Run Cold
Fight until you die or drop
A Force Like Ours is Hard to Stop
Close your mind to stress and pain
Fight till You're No Longer Sane
Let not one Cursed cur pass by
How Many of Them Can We Make Die!

Guard your women and children well
Send These Cowards Back to Hell
We'll teach them the ways of war
They Won't Come Here Any More
Use your shield and use your head
Fight till Every One is Dead
Raise the flag up to the sky
How Many of Them Can We Make Die!

Dawn has broke, the time has come
Move Your Feet to a Marching Drum
We'll win the war and pay the toll
We'll Fight as One in Heart and Soul
Midnight mare and blood red roan
Fight to Keep this Land Your Own
Sound the horn and call the cry
How Many of Them Can We Make Die!

Axes flash, broadsword swing
Shining armour's piercing ring
Horses run with polished shield
Fight Those devils till They Yield
Midnight mare and blood red roan
Fight to Keep this Land Your Own
Sound the horn and call the cry
How Many of Them Can We Make Die!

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+10=13 ; d20+5=22 ;
Wednesday May 26th, 2021 4:27:56 PM
As always, Haemir generally stays out of the crews way, only stepping in if his actions speed things up or if he sees something small that needs doing (like securing a rope) that may have been missed. He also sets time aside to help anyone who wishes to learn, or improve their sailing skills (Profession: Teaching:22).

When the Sargrass whispers Haemir (always) pauses and tilts his head, Having felt something when he'd been a tree for a day, the teasing was becoming unbearable. Spotting the two eagles (Thorondir and Aewen) circling the Maiden and occasionally landing in the eagles next (the magically reshaped mast) he relaxes. Haemir was well aware of his weakneses, he wasn't the sharpest at spotting things, so the duo's eyes-in-the-sky made him feel safer.

When the crew sing and the wind carries more of the Sargrass' own song, he has a moment of realisation: he wasn't wealthy, famous, or powerful, yet today he was more content than he'd felt in decades! After all the towns, cities, forests and beds he'd occupied - who would have guessed that he'd find peace sailing the plains?!

Maybe some of his contentment flows through his bond with Fand as she sighs, curls up and exposes her belly to the sun, her tongue-lolling out the corner of her mouth.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday May 26th, 2021 6:08:01 PM
Sol avoids getting in anyone's way, as he always does, as his skills certainly don't lie in sailing, on any level. He does enjoy the song, and tries to write it down in his journal, to keep it for the future.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday May 26th, 2021 9:41:44 PM
The music of the grasses is drowned out by the song of the crew. Thorondir doesn't mind singing, but he much prefers to listen to the sounds of nature. If only they could sing about things growing and blooming, new life coming into the Wold. Songs of death seem only to bring more death, perhaps he will try and teach them a song about new life. It wouldn't hurt to bring a bit more joy into this place.

Looking at Aewen, as they fly along brings his spirits back up. In fact, the higher he flies the higher his spirits. Perhaps that could be part of the song, something about the wind beneath his wings bringing him higher and higher. He will work on it, but it is good to fly.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Wednesday May 26th, 2021 10:34:23 PM
Rurik's heart grows excited as they delve deeper into the wilds, yearning for chances to prove his value and earn honor. He knows, however, that the only true honor is that of protecting innocents, and as he looks out at the beautiful and deadly grass, he hopes for their own sake that few have the misfortune to end up here.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Thursday May 27th, 2021 3:11:12 PM
Fand plays with a ball of string patting it around and occasionally getting under foot.
Till the wind catches it and it vanishies off in the distance.
She gives it a longing look - it had been a good friendship while it lasted.
Ball would be missed but never forgotten
She shrugs and goes back to cleaning herself.

Return to Rattledam

Just outside town (DM Cayzle)
Thursday May 27th, 2021 11:37:34 PM

The sun shines hot. The brisk sirocco heats by conduction as much as it cools by evaporation. THe grasses wave as the ship floats onwards. Sometimes the grasses rustle in ways that suggest creatures deep at the roots, but unseen by you.

Haemir spends his ship time keeping an eye on things and teaching sailing skills. It is a happy time of travel, and Fand playfully echoes the mood.

'Lil is also content to enjoy the trip without any drama. She ponders taking a break from adventuring.

Sol takes notes, a true scholar at heart.

Thorondir enjoys the journey as well, being at one with nature.

Rurik, unlike his placid comrades, does not neglect the dangers of the Plains! He knows that this harsh land is not one that most people can survive. He is excited to meet the challenge, but he is wise in his caution.

However, on this journey, at least, no danger materializes. And after your travels are complete, you find yourselves returned at last to Rattledam.

First and foremost, you discover that changes have been made to the town. The grass has been cut back from the limits of the town, and a border of fire resistant grasses has been planted around it. This border is a distinctive red color, and shorter than the native grasses outside of it. You won't be able to bring the ship right up to the town, with this 1,000-ft swathe of lawn between you and it.

You do see that there has definitely been new construction. In fact, you see someone atop a watch tower jumping up and down. There seems to be a lot of activity taking place, actually, more as time goes on.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Friday May 28th, 2021 8:41:19 PM
Rurik steps out of his room, dressed for battle and ready as always. He looks around curiously at the town, noting the various defenses and wondering at the dangers they ward against.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Saturday May 29th, 2021 4:37:29 AM
Haemir steps up beside Rurik and equally studies the changes.
Would be handy if they could shrink the Maiden he thinks.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Sunday May 30th, 2021 3:18:10 AM
Sol waves to the person in the watchtower a big smile on his face, as he stands alongside Haemir and Rurik.

He looks over the new construction and frowns for a moment before continuing to wave in greeting as they approach.

Just outside town (DM Cayzle)
Sunday May 30th, 2021 8:34:21 AM

the watcher on the tower waves back ... and seems to motion to the right.

at this point you have a few choices. weigh anchor and walk in across the 'lawn' ... move the ship to the right ... but how far ... carry/drag the ship across the lawn to the town ...

but for sure you want to enter new rattledam ... and keep your druidwood vessel safe. options ...

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=14 ; d20+10=11 ;
Sunday May 30th, 2021 2:29:39 PM
"So Haemir, should we weigh anchor here? I can trim the grasses around the Maiden so she can't be snuck up on easily."

Assuming Haemir doesn't object, Thorondir casts "Diminish Plants", forming a 150 foot semicircle with the landscaped area of the town on the other side. He leaves the grasses full height beneath the Maiden, keeping her high off the ground.

Thorondir feeds some worms to Talpid and asks him to keep watch over the ship. He leaps over the side and Aewen flies nearby.

"Should we go and see how things are? I've never been here before."

Perception Thorondir 14
Perception Aewen 11

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Sunday May 30th, 2021 5:12:55 PM
Unfortunately he looks too far away for any magic shenanigans, so Haemir concludes the man can hardly be waving us to a docks.
He's happy to wait if someone has a better idea (or if air scouts provide more info) otherwise he's down with Thorondir's idea and gives the druid a cheeky grin and thumbs up.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+1=6 ;
Monday May 31st, 2021 4:47:40 AM
(Perceiption:6).

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Monday May 31st, 2021 7:56:57 PM

Akuno snaps out of whatever reverie she's been in.

"The tower watchers seem nice! It will be good to be in a place that's secure without relying on us."

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Tuesday June 1st, 2021 12:16:39 AM
Rurik climbs down from the ship, enjoying the feeling of being back on solid ground once more. "Come, let us see how these colonists have fared!"

Just outside town (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday June 1st, 2021 6:37:25 AM

Thorondir suggests using a Diminish Plants spell to isolate the ship, leaving her in a form of "dry dock."

Haemir's got nothing better, and encourages his friend. "The man can hardly be waving us to a docks."

Akuno notes the town's defenses approvingly.

Rurik is eager to approach, and hops down to the lawn.

The spell is cast, isolating the druidwood vessel. Leaving the crew and Talpid to watch the ship, you all set out across the lawn towards the town. When you get within earshot range, you can hear the guard on the watchtower. You can see that the tower is more of a platform gently swaying on four long legs made of some kind of lashed strong grass, like bamboo.

You hear the guard call down. "Hello travellers! Didn't you see me waving? I was directing you to the docks."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday June 1st, 2021 11:42:51 AM
“Dock, I thought we had the only ship on the Sargrass?”

Thorondir is a bit confused.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+9=25 ;
Tuesday June 1st, 2021 3:33:17 PM
Haemir freezes mid step and spins slowly like a weathervane, before striding away in the opposite direction (Acrobatics:25) - yeah back towards the ship.
"My bad. Looks like I'm buying the first round" He says grinning.

He thinks: 'Well we left The Stone Temple a month ago, plus they had three years and other ships are being made', but as he 'brains' some other part of him speaks:
"T'be honest I'm just glad New Rattledam's still here. This is new to all of us"!

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Tuesday June 1st, 2021 4:57:44 PM

She doesn't want him to walk along, so Akuno tags along behind Haemir. She elbows the silent 'Lil, and offers a smile. "I'll be right back, don't miss me too much!" (Man, I'm gonna miss Carl.)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday June 1st, 2021 5:31:47 PM
Sol smiles as they head towards the docks, taking a deep breath to help take in the smells of the city, such as it is.

"It is good to be back. It has been far too long since we were here. It will be interesting to see how it has changed in our absence."

He pats Haemir on the back.

"I certainly would not say not to a free drink... as long as it is not that stuff we had before, I feel that was somewhat too potent for my delicate constitution."

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday June 1st, 2021 10:31:21 PM
Hey! Wait for me! I was napping and missed some stuff. Herbert runs down, little furry feet scurrying in a flurry as he tries to catch up. Wow! This is soooo neat!

Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday June 1st, 2021 11:55:16 PM

The guard up on the bamboo tower calls down, "Go right on in! I already sent word that you've arrived."

You walk past the tower into New Rattledam proper. There is a curving wall that surrounds the town. The height varies, and from the angle, you can tell that this is the base of what will be the new woven dome. For now, though, it is more like a wall, varying from 5 to 20 feet high. And there is an obvious gate.

At the gate, there are more guards, and one asks your names and purposes. But before you can answer, another one shouts, "HEY! What are you doing! These are friends! They came with us to get here!"

Sure enough, this is a colonist you recognize, though the name escapes you. A guard back then, and still a guard, you see. You vaguely remember his name as ... Jamjay? Jaymesy? Something like that.

He rushes to open the gate and let you in, and soon all the guards are welcoming you warmly.

The guards are eager to lead you to the town council, a ruling body that has been formalized since you went away. Jaemsie is eager to talk, too. "So much has been going on!" he says.

Do you ... head off on your own toward the docks, wherever they are? Grab your old acquaintence for a sit down and a chat? Head off right away to the council? Something else?

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 10:20:19 AM

Akunos not the one to make the calls here. She's not even been to this place. It was 'Lils strong insistence to come here after all.

She's willing to take either Sol or Haemirs leads here, as they are the longest established members of the sentinels.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 2:32:21 PM
"I can grow the grass back tomorrow and we can move the ship to the dock. I guess we should have gone and talked to the gate keeper first. I'm not usually so hasty, at least I try not to be."

Thorondir is a bit chagrined after stranding the ship instead of having it taken to the dock.

Aewen flies above him, and calls to him. Apparently, she saw the dock but didn't realize what it was and that we should go there.

"Aewen reminds me I should join her more often, from her view up high she can clearly see the dock. Anyway, I have also never been here. Haemir or Sol, what should we do?"

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 5:11:10 PM
Sol, realising quickly he's one of the few that is still in the same state as when they left Rattledam (albeit a little older) looks over his compatriots.

"I feel we should meet with council first... we will have time for pleasantries later." He says this last bit more to the guard who's name he doesn't remember than his allies.

"Follow me, I will do..." it was clear he meant to say 'the talking' but pauses for a moment. "... my best to communicate with the councillors..." He hoped that by declaring himself thusly he wasn't biting off more than he could chew...

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 6:59:33 PM
Rurik nods. "Very well, it seems that I am not alone in my unfamiliarity of this settlement, and your experience is most welcome. Lead on, noble mage."

Following Sol's lead, he heads into town, examining the defenses to see what information he can glean from them, though his specialty lies more in front line combat than engineering and battlefield tactics.

(OOC I'm not sure what I should roll for that)

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 10:52:24 PM
"I think that is a grand idea, Sol. I'm all for communication with the powers that be." Herbert falls into double step to keep up with Sol. Herbert is trying to maintain a stoic expression on his Ursine face, but his eyes grow wide with wonder and give him away. "Akuno, isn't this neat?" Herbert whispers under his breath.

Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 11:17:05 PM

As you walk through town, you see that the buildings are frames of stronger grasses, the bamboo-like plants that have some strength, and that the walls and roofs are woven mats. The streets are "paved" with a short strong lawn of another breed of grasses.

There does seem to be a new town hall, which doubles as an indoor market by the evidence of your eyes. You find only one of the members of the town council in residence, as it turns out, but he is an old friend.

The Climber, Needle, is so happy to see you! "So well met indeed are we! Amazing! So wonderful!"

He talks to each of you who have known him in the past, and asks for introductions to those he does not know.

"A great feast must have we!" he declares, and sets into motion a great tp-do of preparations. He leads you to a small house, evidently set aside for guests and visiting travelers, and soon enough it is twilight. The town hall has been transformed into a great feasting den!

Grass-based delicacies abound at the feast, and dishes made from creatures of the Sargrass that the party has not encountered before but that are delicious. There is also a grass-based wine that is quite acceptable once the party gets used to it.

Needle and the rest of the council are in attendance. They ask you to stand and tell your stories about what you have done since you were last here. It is clear that they hope each of you will give a tale.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Thursday June 3rd, 2021 12:37:16 PM
"Tis good to see you all again! Although my face has changed - I am Haemir, I had paler skin n' blue hair last time... It seems The Sargrass has plans for me. You remember Sol of course? Our noble, knowledgeable wizard. The new faces are Akuno Neko a Catfolk sorcerer of royal lineage, Herbert Bramblerose, a black-bear Beastfolk. The dwarf is Rurik Ironjaw a Paladin of Domi n' last, but by no means least the quickling-scourge, Thorondir, a druid tasked to try n' keep us out of trouble. 'Lil n' Caelwyn will hopefully catch up later, they're still on the Maiden at present"! (OOC - both being missed!).

Haemir doesn't speak about the Rhemorhaz (as he's told that story once already).

"We managed to find some druidwood, organised a build n' found documents to help build her. We also gave her a test run, locating n' setting up relations with Zaran City".

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday June 3rd, 2021 3:12:31 PM
"I am merely a guardian of the Maiden and those who sail her. The quicklings committed suicide by attacking my charges. I merely set the stage and allowed them the freedom to choose. The word should spread that I set deadly traps for those who mean to attack the ship. Even now it is warded. Four quicklings died in seconds when they attacked, so please spread the word that coming upon the ship without invitation will likely be fatal. I take my charge to protect the ship and crew seriously. Of course, we would like to invite the council to see the ship. I will make sure they are safe when they visit. Anyway, I am Thorondir, a humble servant."

Thorondir bows to emphasize his humble nature.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday June 3rd, 2021 6:20:23 PM
Sol smiles at the crowd, and speaks clearly, without fear.

"I am not one for giving speeches, and not one for bragging, so let me simply say, we did what we had set out to do. It would not have been possible without the frankly heroic efforts of my friends and allies. I am proud to count myself amongst them."

He doesn't wish to add any more as he clearly feels it would be self aggrandising.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday June 3rd, 2021 10:31:46 PM
Rurik nods his head respectfully at the council member.

"I fear I have no grand tales to tell, unless you fancy listening to stories of fighting goblins in the caverns or helping odd passerby. I look forward to changing that and adding many a triumphant victory to my belt."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday June 4th, 2021 3:35:45 AM
Since the Rhemorhaz story looked like it had be bypassed he adds..
"Oh yeah we took down a Rhemorhaz too".

As an after thought he adds:
"The Maiden has some cargo hold for trade too".
He will list some of it but it was generally things his coven member told him NR needed through their cauldrons.

Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle)
Friday June 4th, 2021 6:31:49 AM

Needle is the heart of hospitality, and the other Council Members nod when he urges all of your people, crew and missing heroes, to come and relax. "A haven here set up have we, a dangerous land's harbor, so stay a while in the days to come you please must. Some 'shore leave,' to say, will enjoy all your folk."

Haemir and Sol recognize one more of the Council, the elf harvester named Freakshow. Somehow he has found room for a few more tats!

The leader of the council, one of the original colonists who you might vaguely recall, is Mayor Shikfast, a tanned blonde human woman in her early middle age, with two teenage kids. She welcomes you and, towards the end of the feast, has a present. She presents you with a sail for your ship, woven of multicolored grass to display a stylized bird, which the townsfolk call a dove.

[OOC: This beautiful nonmagical sail grants anyone acting on official ship business a +4 on Diplomacy checks interacting with a Rattledammer. It has Hardness 10 and 100 hp.]

"For our good friends, we offer this sail for your ship, so that we will know you from far off, and rejoice!"

[OOC: Please take a few days, at least, to relax and rest here in town.]

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+16=17 ; d100=10 ;
Friday June 4th, 2021 9:40:07 AM
Haemir marvels at the sail and thanks the council!

"Ah to be back again"! Happy to show anyone new around and introduce them to people and/or weaving, explaining to Herbert and Rurik: "Everything from huts to walls are woven with grasses here, like reeds or bamboo, different grasses work in different ways" ... He takes time during the stroll around to examine every foot of the town, seeing how things have progressed and what weaving techniques were used. If he sees a particular weave pattern he wasn't aware of he asks around and learns more if he can. He's appreciates everyone may not wanna see every inch but figures a soldier always like to check their camp (in Ruriks case).

Happy to leave trading to any who enjoy it. If no one does though he speaks with traders and offers the cargo from Zaran (Diplomacy:17). Although it probably becomes apparent that Haemir isn't trying to fleece anyone, quite the opposite - he could probably have pushed for much more money, it's just this is home and he's all about helping it grow, (plus he rolled a one on his trading/diplomacy roll - maybe he's a new at bartering? Using WG house rules as a template 10% business is extremely slow and he looses 20% of money invested). He's not in it for the money though.

Later, somewhere quiet he meets with his coven member Arbath a 6' 5, wiry/slim man in his 30's, a skilled craftsman who met Haemir on the boat (when they left Hook city) and settled in New Rattledam. They chat in person and catch up and also contact the coven through their cauldrons - in particular Stardust (the Manfri member). As far as Haemir is concerned the Manfri wanted time to see how the Sentinels did before they confirmed letting them in more. Well three years, a boat, quite few things had changed, including the Sentinels members. It was becoming apparent New Rattledam needed the steel weaving. Only so much could be done and that hadn't been sorted yet.

Whilst here Haemir's happy to help weave buildings, the wall, or anything he can. The one thing about him is he isn't afraid of chipping in, helping and doing simple everyday manual labour of grunt work. He never sees himself above anyone else. In fact the party may need accommodation so he will work day and night to weave a place (using as many of his unseen servants as he can).

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday June 4th, 2021 10:16:25 AM
"Sol would you mind identifying the potion we found at some point please"?

(OOC: all we know is It's a restorative potion worth 4,000 gp - possibly from the Quicklings?!)

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Friday June 4th, 2021 5:56:59 PM
Rurik listens thoughtfully to the descriptions of the various locations, and is happy to meet these hardy folk, pleasantly greeting al of them and engaging in small talk politely. Once the tour ends, he wanders about the town, helping where he can. His oath and his conscience refuse to let him simply lie about for these few days, and so he does the best he can to make the city better, whether that is using his limited healing abilities to restore those who have been hurt or using his strength to great advantage, it makes no matter to him as long as the world is bettered for it. This place reminds him of his home in a way, where the people are stout and sturdy, and work together to overcome the challenges of the lands.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=18 ; d20+10=13 ;
Friday June 4th, 2021 6:03:20 PM
Thorondir rests the night and prepares some spells for the next day. Calling Aewen down to him in the morning he spends some time preening her feathers and talking softly to her. "I have a busy day Aewen, I was a bit hasty the other day and stranded the ship away from the dock. I'll need to go fix that first and then we will see what good we can do."

Thorondir walks to the ship while Aewen flies above. Climbing aboard, he calls out to the crew.
"It seems we have docked in the wrong spot. I'll regrow these grasses and I'll need you to sail the ship to the town's dock. Aewen there will guide you, just follow her."

Thorondir will then either dismiss the Diminish plant spell (which I can't see that he can) or cast Plant Growth in the affected area. Once the grasses are back, Thorondir calls out to the crew.
"Sail away, when we get to the dock Haemir has a new sail for our Maiden. She will be well received in the future, as it bears the figure of a dove. I think once the ship is in dock and the sail is in place, there will be time to enjoy the town. The Maiden should be well guarded in dock."

While they are under way, Thorondir checks on his mole friend Talpid. Making sure he still has plenty of worms to eat. He also checks the health of the whortle berry bush, giving it a bit of water once they are in dock.

With the ship safely in dock, and the new sail raised, Thorondir is off to check on the town. He wildshapes into an eagle and flies in circles above the town with Aewen at his side. "We are looking for crops and domestic animals. Tell me if you see any."
Perception Thorondir 18
Perception Aewen 13

Once the cultivated areas (if any) are found, Thorondir will cast Plant Growth to increase the yield of the plants: Enrichment: This effect targets plants within a range of a half-mile, raising their potential productivity over the course of the next year to one-third above normal.

If domestic animals are found, he will land and turn back into his elven form. He will cast Speak with Animals and ask them how they are faring, and if they need anything. If necessary, he will cast Charm Animal in order to have a friendly chat.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Friday June 4th, 2021 11:12:59 PM
Herbert asks the members of the Council if there are any others of his kind here. "While we are here, I am happy to work to earn my keep; I'm a good protector, and am skilled at helping those who cannot help themselves. I am at your service." Herbert sys with a deep formal bow.

Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle)
Friday June 4th, 2021 11:52:26 PM

Over the next few days, the heroes find ways to keep busy. Caelwyn and 'Lil both decide to settle down here for a while, at least. Sometimes one needs a break from adventuring.

Haemir offloads the party trade goods for a song, and earns some goodwill, if not a profit. He also helps out around town, and learns that there is some dispute about the wall around New Rattledam. Some people think a wall is enough, and that a dome would collapse. Others want a true dome for protection from the elements and bugs and such.

Rurik finds much to admire in the industriousness of the Rattledammers. And his healing talents are very much appreciated. He also finds a number of unique quirks. The accent and words are odd -- his healing is "shady," meaning good, and the people use a lot of weaving metaphors he doesn't quite get. But everybody is very welcoming.

Thorondir helps brings the Maiden around the town to the "dock" -- which is just a swath of uncut grass that the ship can sail right up to the city wall. There is a second gatehouse on this side, even more heavily watched than the other one. Later, he finds flower and vegetable gardens in the town proper, and blesses them, and also the healthy pigs and happy chickens kept in town, so different than the flora outside. He sees that teams of hunters and grass harvesters leave the town every day to carefully take the bounty of the land.

Herbert approaches the town council directly, and is warmly received. In fact, the Mayor asks Herbert to gather his friends and to meet tomorrow evening in the town hall. The council would like to chat with you all.

To open the meeting, the Mayor gives a little speech about how much has been achieved, and how she has trouble sleeping at night thinking about how the town's defenses are lacking. She asks you heroes, "What do you think we can do to make the town safer, more defensible?"

She looks to you all for advice.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+9=29 ;
Saturday June 5th, 2021 12:05:50 PM
Haemir watches Lil & Caelwyn walk away in silence - clearly it hits him.

Later on the way to the meeting he falls in beside Thorondir, softly nudging him and conspiratorially smirking:
"Loved the speech about traps" followed by an elven-high-five.

At the meeting he's quiet as settlement defenses had never been a high priority for someone always on the move.
"What's the population here now"?

"Down to me - I would go try to persuade the Manfri to teach me how to weave steel-grass n' make a lightweight steel dome over Rattledam - like it used to be I believe"?
But then he would be the first to admit it didn't work for the Old Rattledam, so it's not a subject he has a decision either way on and listens to everyone's ideas and suggestions.
He does wrack his own brain for anything.
---

(Knowledge Engineering:29)

Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp
Saturday June 5th, 2021 2:06:24 PM

Akuno seems torn. She stands next to Haemir, and reaches up to put a small hand in the middle of his back. "It's like that sometimes." She looks at the ship with Haemir, Thorondir, Herbet, and all the others.

She takes a tiny step towards 'Lil. "I think... I think I don't want 'Lil to be alone. Caelwyn isn't really great company." She casts her usual Floating Disk, but rather than use it as a pillowed palanquin, she instead climbs atop it and gives Haemir a kiss on the cheek.

She climbs back down and dismisses the spell, then adjusts the straps on her backpack. Its a rare thing, for her to carry her own load. Perhaps that's something the party taught her?

"So long you guys, and thanks for all the fish!" With that, she turns and trudges on after 'Lil, her first and best friend in the grass.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Saturday June 5th, 2021 11:38:18 PM
Haemir hugs the little princess and strokes her then watches her depart - another blow. It felt like the wold was falling apart. "Akuno, I hope you find what you seek"! He says, but doesn't know what else to say. He watches her till she's out of view and then just watches the empty space for a while.
Silently.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Sunday June 6th, 2021 2:34:20 PM
Thorondir is a bit stunned, to lose both 'Lil and Akuno is a blow. They were an important part of the Sentinels. More importantly, they were his friends.

"I hope you find your family Princess Akuno. 'Lil, please keep her safe, I hope you both return soon."

He joins Haemir in staring off in the direction they went.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday June 7th, 2021 9:06:21 PM
Rurik strokes his beard as he thinks.

"I must admit I am unfamiliar with the dangers posed by this region, but perhaps controlled burn of the grasses would help? We dig two ditches, one around the town, and one further out, and then burn the grass inbetween. The ditches prevent the fire from spreading, and now you can see further out than before. If you maintain the ditches then they would also act as a defensive line in and of themselves."

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Monday June 7th, 2021 11:18:54 PM
"Sometimes we follow our heart, and sometimes it leads to a hearth. I hope you are all able to take a breath and rest, and then find what it is your heart cries out for. I know you will find it; I believe in you." Herbert says, looking and sounding not quite as young of a cub as he did before.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday June 8th, 2021 3:25:24 AM
Sol looks pretty heartbroken at the though of losing Lil and Akuno... it's odd for the wizard to show much emotion other than happiness, however this is obviously a bit too much for him.

"Be well Akuno, I will miss our little magical discussions." He doesn't say any more for fear of tearing up, as he tries to be at least somewhat stoic.

On the discussion of defences, he frowns.

"We would need to know more about the challenges you face to be able to help. What sort of issues do you face? What dangers threaten you? I am certain between ourselves we can help come up with some solutions, but ultimately we are also not a town guard, it is not where our expertise lies..." he pauses then looks around his new companions, and the loss of his old ones. "... at least I do not believe so. For certain it is not my area, but I can potentially look into teaching some magic to those with the aptitude that may be helpful."

Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday June 8th, 2021 6:41:04 AM

Akuno says her good-byes. She leaves, with 'Lil and Caelwyn.

Haemir, thinking about departing friends more than anything else, has no suggestion regarding town defense, and stays quiet, except to ask how many people inhabit the place. The council members are vague and unsure [OOC: same as your dungeon master], but takes a stab at some number of hundreds of people.

Haemir does speak in favor of a dome. Though that would take expertise to fashion correctly, expertise his own knowledge suggests the town does not have, maybe.

Thorondir is too struck by friends departing to even think about the town's defenses.

Rurik suggests a series of ditches. The mayor nods, though she seems a bit afraid of fires getting out of control.

Herbert offers wise words of farewell.

Sol wishes his comrades well, though he can barely say anything, for his emotions run high.

Then, to the council, he asks about the dangers the town faces.

The Mayor says, "Plagues of flying insects of course, you may recall such. The ravening beasts of the Grass, rapke and such, sure. And as more people populate the Sargrass, who is to say that the dangers posed by two-legged creatures may not be the most threatening."

"Still, you have offered us two good ideas. The idea of ditches is novel and also something we can implement. The dome idea answers other threats that ditches will not deter, but we do not have the capability to achieve it."

"Please wait and give us a short while to deliberate."

The council goes into isolation to debate among themselves, and an hour later reconvenes.

"We will pursue both of the solutions you suggest, but we need help. We have a request for you all." the Mayor says. "To complete a dome, we need Climber expertise. We would like to send a delegation to the Climbers, and ask for some among them to come and advise us. You will escort a delegation, led by Needle here, to the nearest Climber settlement, and hopefully return with the expert weavers we need."

"Will you help us with this mission?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday June 8th, 2021 1:14:44 PM
“Sure, we can escort Needles to the settlement. Is it a journey that will use the Maiden to sail across the grasses or is this by foot?”

Thorondir is ready .

(OOC: I’m on a trip to Alaska so while I’ll try to not miss posting, I’m doing it on my phone and they will be short)

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Tuesday June 8th, 2021 2:51:54 PM
"You had me at 'complete a dome'... I'm in" he says with a bow.

Wait, did Fand just roll her eyes at him? He gives her side eye.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday June 8th, 2021 5:48:21 PM
Sol nods, a bright, if still somewhat sad smile appears on his face.

"Yes, we will be able to Needle safely so he can negotiate on your behalf."

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Wednesday June 9th, 2021 12:23:13 AM
Rurik nods, smiling. "Of course! Consider it already done."

A Favor for the Council (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday June 9th, 2021 12:38:39 AM

The New Rattledam Town Council is well pleased.

"Thank you, young heroes! Needle here has been eager to go down this path for some time,"

"Truth speaks she!" says Needle. "For this very goal I have made the new wall ready to become a dome~ Departure is the morning's order of business!"

Sense Motive DC20: Highlight to display spoiler: {You have the idea that Needle is a little bit annoyed that he has been suggesting this for a while, but you guys come in, and everybody suddenly likes the idea!}

After a short measure of socializing, you are free. You have the night and the early morning to buy supplies and make ready.

[OOC: Heck, if you would like to have done anything in the day or three before, we can say that you did it. I'm easy with retconjuration, that way.]

The trip will take two days and a night on the Maiden (less if you sail through the night, but is that wise?). Please give me your orders for travel. What do you do at night? Camp? Keep sailing in the dark? Do you have watches? Please give me the standard info for your overland travel procedure.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+1=19 ;
Wednesday June 9th, 2021 4:58:16 AM
Up till now we have always kept the Maiden going throughout the night - with the crew splitting into two shifts. There is usually a watch in the eagles/crows nest and we have two birds (crow and eagle) for additional help. In discussions before ref's hinted it was safer to keep moving (and got us where we wanted faster). I'm sure sentinels would be happy to share watches too as in essence - we would do them anyway if walking. Thorondir also enjoys eagle time acting as a scout. Food supplies are usually stored in my bag of holding and distributed daily (as I figure food stored in hot cargo holds is crazy).

Happy to make any amendments if anyone has ideas?

Lastly to Freakshow - he misses whatever was going on with him (sense motive:19) but asks if there is any supplies he think the group may like? If possible he will stock up.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20=15 ;
Wednesday June 9th, 2021 10:08:02 AM
Thorondir spends each morning as an eagle, flying with Aewen above the Maiden. On days the ship is slower than them they make large circles above her. He spends the afternoon as himself and will spend nights perched next to Aewen in the eagles nest. At night Thorondir will take the form of an owl. So 8 hours each as eagle, elf and owl.

He is ready to travel.

“Time to feel the wind again, it isn’t healthy to stay too long in a town.”

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+4=22 ;
Wednesday June 9th, 2021 10:11:42 AM
Rurik has no problem with getting odd hours of sleep in order to stand watch, especially since they are used to being in dark, dangerous places. He defers to the rest of the party's experience in traversing the plains as to what the safest course of action could be.

( sense motive: 22 ) While he says nothing at the time, during the short period of socializing Rurik pulls Needle aside for a one on one conversation (although Needle needs to bend over quite a bit to be able to stay on the same level as the stout dwarf).

"I understand your frustration. It seems like these people idolize the heroes that brought them here, and have less inclination to listen to those who have helped maintain it. Remember that when we came we simply listened to what was needed, and deferred to your expertise. In this endeavor, we are simply extensions of your will. Find peace with yourself, and do not begrudge your fellow Rattledamites for their anxiousness."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+4=16 ;
Wednesday June 9th, 2021 6:33:39 PM
Sol is happy to help out and be useful to the party, however, he prefers sleeping at night if possible, though it doesn't matter too much to him.

He however fails to notice any subtext, probably as he has his nose in a book. ((Sense motive 16)).

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Wednesday June 9th, 2021 11:20:36 PM
Herbert, for all his cuteness, is a paladin, and will have no problem whatsoever doing his fair share (and then some) of sentry duty. Herbert spends his "off duty" time learning the ways of the crew, getting his 'grass legs' as it were, and helping out where help is needed. Herbert is not above getting dirty, but he also will not be relegated to being a lackey either.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Thursday June 10th, 2021 3:53:47 AM
When Rurik takes Needles aside Haemir is curious what's bothering him, he was so close he could almost feel it.
Unable resist and without even realising he taps into that part of him he's still not used to. (Activating Remote Viewing: clairaudience at will as SLA 640' range).
He overhears the convo as if stood next to them, feeling a little bit awkward when he figures out what he's done.

One thing he does do is look at Rurik though new eyes. Seems the mountain of a dwarf soldier has a deep wisdom and compassion that he has rarely seen in others!
He didn't mean to snoop, but definitely learned things.

A Favor for the Council (DM Cayzle)
Thursday June 10th, 2021 8:00:40 AM

Before leaving, Rurik gets a hunch about what Needle is bothered about, and reassures him. [Rurik, please accept a hero point for great roleplay.]

The next day the heroes set out on the Maiden, with Needle and two assistants on board.

Haemir directs the vessel as he has in the past, and the ship moves across the grass smoothly through the day and then during night as well.

Thorondir keeps watch from above when he is not in humanoid shape. Sol and Herbert help out as the ship travels. The Maiden, moving many times faster than a human could manage to walk through the grass, arrives midmorning the next day.

As the ship approaches the Climber settlement, you can see your destination from afar because it rises high into the sky. The Climbers have built a series of towers and are in the process of stringing a large, spiderweb-like structure between them. The structures are graceful and slender, swaying in the breeze, but evidently in no danger of collapse.

As you get even closer, you see a group of ten people walking on the grass, just as you sail on it. Are they wearing druidwood "snowshoes"? No, they are on stilts. One steps forward and shouts for you to halt. They are clearly armed and armored in leather and carrying crossbows and blowguns. They are about 200 ft away. They are not exactly hostile, but they are wary.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+14=34 ;
Thursday June 10th, 2021 12:58:17 PM
During the journey Haemir happily coaches any wanna-be sailors and throws himself into crewing, a captain who gets his hands dirty. He'd love to chat and get to know the new guys more but with a 24 hour crew he doesn't have much free time. However, when he catches Fand giving Sol a strange, intense stare he walks over and crouches next to her. His previous friend (the blue parrot) had been talkative, everyone knew her opinion! This one however, sat brooding? No that wasn't the word, but then she relaxes as he lays a hand on her - the spell broken she flops down. Flamboyantly stretching, rolling and curving her back she exposes her belly to the sun with her tongue hanging out. 'It's a trap' he thinks. 'No idiot tickles or scratches a Rapke's tummy right? He chuckles and goes back to work leaving her to an afternoon nap. The incident soon forgotten.

When the climbers hail them Haemir says to the first mate:
"Let's do as the man asks Donald. Stay frosty but don't draw any weapons or give em reason to take offense".

After the Maiden stops Haemir concentrates, steps up, waves and adopts the native slang: "Greetings, no need t'be shuttlecocked we're not white hands. Needle's with us n' we're a pack from Rattledam seeking to speak with you weavers".

To Needle he says: "You continue to be a great shade for us all Needle. Thank you black face. Will you guide n' speak as beater for New Rattledam. She's as much yours as ours now n' we will always listen to you"!
He steps back and allows Needle to do his thing, if he wants to of course.
---

(Diplomacy: 34 - includes a +2 self boost from Guide/Mislead & a nat '20' woot!)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday June 10th, 2021 6:47:36 PM
Sol actually studies a little under Haemir during the time off, as he would like to learn to be more useful on the ship where ever possible, it doesn't take long for his hands to blister, crack and bleed, however, he doesn't stop until told to.

"We should do our best not to offend them... diplomacy is certainly not my skill set... give me some magic, and I can work with it, but beyond that, I feel I am somewhat useless."

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Thursday June 10th, 2021 11:07:23 PM
Herbert does his best to pick up Haemir's lingo, and develops a rolling stroll. He can be seen practicing some local vernacular over and over. He is frequently incorrect, but his attempts are endearing. When interacting with the Climbers, Herbert does his best to look nonchalant and unthrreatening. A pretty easy feat, actually.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=20 ; d20+10=28 ;
Thursday June 10th, 2021 11:23:46 PM
Thorondir knows his strength is in keeping watch, certainly not in negotiations. He stands by his berry bush feeding Talpid the mole some worms. Aewen stays perched in the eagles nest keeping watch.

Perception Thorondir 20
Perception Aewen 28

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Friday June 11th, 2021 12:57:22 AM
Rurik stands ready with hand on sword, waiting to see how the situation plays out, wearing a calm and relaxed face that belies his inner vigilance.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday June 11th, 2021 7:05:08 AM
Hearing Herbert trying out the Sargrass lingo, he slips into professor mode and encourages him.
"Wow, not bad at all! You're actually picking it up really fast"!
(OOC: FYI: Sargrass Lingo.)

To Sol he heals his hands and taps the ring Virgil gave him (Profession (Sailor): +5). "Don't forget you have this! Maybe try not over thinking things n' the knowledge will flow through your hands"!

A Favor for the Council (DM Cayzle)
Friday June 11th, 2021 7:15:10 AM

Haemir steps up to speak with the Climbers on stilts. His diplomacy and friendly manner go a long way toward a smooth encounter, and everybody relaxes. He introduces Needle.

Sol, Rurik, Thorindir, and Herbert are content to let their friend be the party "face."

The New Rattledam envoy steps up. Several of the guards recognize him, and express amazement to see him alive. There's some teasing mockery: "Oh, sure, the bouncer is coming back to the pack! We'll see about that!"

Needle explains that he has become a leader in a new settlement, and he has messages for the Dhief.

Between Needle and Haemir, the right words are spoken and the party is welcomed. You are allowed to moor your ship nearby while the delegation visits the climbers. You are given the choice of waiting with the ship or entering the settlement. You won't be allowed to see the Dhief, though. That's only for Climbers.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Friday June 11th, 2021 6:20:23 PM
Sol nods, smiling at Haemir's words.

"Yes I could Haemir, but I prefer to learn things the hard way before using magic to augment my abilities."

Sol decides to go wandering around the settlement, seeing if he can find any books or magical curios he could take back to New Rattledam, the idea of setting up some sort of Star Mages guild hall or library occurring to him and him finding it a very pleasant idea.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Friday June 11th, 2021 10:15:55 PM
Herbert decides to wander around the settlement, looking for anyone that needs any help. Looking to do a good deed, and learn the ways of these new people.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Saturday June 12th, 2021 12:33:02 AM
Thorondir will walk about the settlement, looking for they way they use plants and to see if they have any domestic animals.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Saturday June 12th, 2021 1:27:00 AM
Rurik decides to accompany Needle, just in case. He knows he won't be allowed at a certain point, but he can at least come along for part of the way. While waiting he watches the people go by, keeping an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Saturday June 12th, 2021 3:21:52 AM
Haemir loves meeting new settlements and cultures, so he's excited about looking around.

"When we get back to the Maiden, please will everyone who's a member of a guild help with letters inviting them to New Rattledam"?

Futures start with dreams. First the Star Mages guild, that opened teleportation and then others would follow. Perhaps even the WLA and catacombs later on... His pace quickens, was Herbert's zest and enthusiasm was rubbing off on him?

Climber Village

A Favor for the Council (DM Cayzle)
Saturday June 12th, 2021 10:17:09 AM

The envoys head off with an escort, and the party splits to enjoy the sights and sounds of a Climber settlement.

The first thing you notice is that although the grass itself is trimmed to a short pleasant length, there is no wall or barrier keeping things OUT. Anyone -- or any beast -- could just walk in. You do see a lot of watchers on high, and they are all carrying horns.

The second thing you see is that almost all buildings are elevated off the ground, either on stilts or simply as tall buildings with doors way up overhead. You see residents easily climbing up and down, in and out, and even between towers on netting and rope bridges. You do not see even one person fall.

Sol finds his way to a market, and at least that is on the ground, thank goodness. The booths are little more than awnings, easy to take up and down. Mostly what you see are foodstuffs, cloth and clothes, baskets, rope, and so on. Metal goods are scarce and seem to command a premium.

Sol, if you roll a Gather Info (Diplomacy) check of 12 or higher, then Highlight to display spoiler: {You find a seller of paper goods and fine stiff cloth. This old lady happens to have a couple books for sale that she'll bring out if you like.}

Herbert looks to do a good deed. He does find a beggar, a middle aged man smelling of spirits who has a really mangled leg and several lost fingers. Here especially, a person who cannot climb would be at a deep disadvantage. He is sitting in the market with a basket for people to drop coins into. You see a few coppers. Most people look away.

Thorondir finds that the people here have tamed prairie pigs to graze and keep the grass down in the community, and of course they are tasty. All of the buildings are woven of bamboo and steelgrass.

Rurik joins Needle and his two helpers. You all are led to the tallest tower. At the base, Needle says to you three, "An obstacle is the height," motioning to the door, 40 ft off the ground, "as is tradition and custom. Only I will ascend." He tells his two helpers to wait here, and thanks Rurik for keeping them company on the walk over.

Both of the helpers are colonists from back in the founding day. One is Zam, an older human woman, and the other is Richart, a youngish fellow who is clearly impressed (and likely to have a sore neck from how he is looking up and twisting his heaf every whichaway).

Zam says to Rurik, "There are few enough dwarves in the Plains. What brings you here, if you do not mind me asking."

Haemir just enjoys looking around. But his head is filled with ideas for bosting his own town.

Feel free to explore. You have at least a few hours while Needle is negotiating.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Saturday June 12th, 2021 11:14:40 PM
Thorondir will spend his time moving about the village, trying out different forms. He spends some time as prairie pig, being careful not to be eaten. He visits with them, talking to them in their tongue. He asks how is life is and if he can do anything for them.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d100=47 ; d20+9=11 ; d20+12=27 ;
Monday June 14th, 2021 2:04:18 AM
Haemir eventually stumbles on the market and sells the cargo at cost price (47% - no gain or loss of money). Noting metal sells well here he picks up cargo (foodstuffs, cloth, clothes, baskets and rope) for New Rattledam and then admires the building/structures (Knowledge Engineering:11).

Strolling around he snaps out of his reverie (seeing that these guys had mastered steel-grass wakes him up). He pokes it, feeling it really is as solid as steel and learns all he can about weaving the grasses. Looking closely at their weaving styles and noting how the different cultures seems to favour different patterns, etc. He will discuss it for ages if someone speaks to him, but he won't randomly accost people.
(Craft Weaving:27)

Then he carries on looking around, an eager student/sponge soaking up whatever he can and meeting people.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=2 ;
Monday June 14th, 2021 5:54:10 PM
Sol spends more time looking for anything magical, to see if there may be something worth keeping/taking with him.

However, he is unable to gather any information leading him on any chases, merry or otherwise.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday June 14th, 2021 10:04:32 PM
"To protect innocents and do good deeds of course. I have heard that there is great trouble on these plains, potentially great evils that need doing, and it is my solemn duty to do what I can to aid those in need."

Rurik's face twists into wistful sorrow as he looks off into the distance, sighs, and says

Of course that isn't all. I've always been an outsider of sorts, a bit of a loner. Through no fault of my own I was.....unwelcome in my home. So leaving it was no great difficulty for me. While I admit being around beings so tall is strange, I have found my companions to be far more welcoming than the reception I am used to.

And with that he recomposes himself and his face once more assumes the self assured stoicism it is accustomed to.

"Ah but I do not wish to bore you with the intricacies of dwarven politics and history. Rurik waves his hand as if to clear the air of the heavy topic he touched on. "The problems of the longbeards are no thing for surface folk to dwell over"

Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday June 15th, 2021 6:53:36 AM

Thorondir communes with the prairie pigs and finds they are pretty dumb. [OOC: Are they actually slugs? Or just slug-like mammals? For now, I will call them animals, not vermin, but there's really not a lot going on upstairs for these guys. Something between a lobster and a cow, say] These seem fairly content with their lot, seeing as they are eating right now and there are no predators.

Haemir finds that the people here are friendly to strangers, though distant. As he gets closer to their core competencies, he gets the clear impression [Sense Motive DC1] that Climbers tend to look down on other people, and the condescension gets thick as he opens the topic of steelgrass. He learns little.

Sol too has limited success. He finds no books or lore.

Rurik has a deep conversation with Zam as they wait for Needle. She reciprocates with a tale of escape from a broken home and abusive husband in Hook City, and her desire to make a new life. You sense there is some tragedy in her past that she does not mention.

At least, not before Needle comes back from his deliberations. He leads Rurik, Zam, and Richart to find the rest of the party and regroup at the ship.

"My friends, we have a problem. The Dhief feels that this request by ... land-bound ... folk is an insult. He's proud. And so he respects no one who does not climb. He has challenged the delegates to a race. If Rattledam wants help from the Climbers, a team must climb up one of the towers, cross the current structures, and climb down a different tower. Needle, as a Climber, is excluded. A Climber team will race with the delegate team. Zam and Richart have no ability to climb, and are not even very athletic. Needles asks for your help.

[OOC: We're two days into a new scene, my friends. Please accept 1,000 xp for last scene.]

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+7=23 ;
Tuesday June 15th, 2021 11:06:22 AM
The idea terrifies Haemir and even just glimpsing the lofty cross-overs makes his palms sweat! Sure he'd climbed ships rigging, but not since his 'rebirth'? He had the feeling he was no better than Zam and Richart, but then it wasn't their task to help New Rattledam. He steps forward:
"I'm in" he says with a cheerful grin. "How many make a team"? He asks - whilst thinking:
'My god, I'm gonna die'!
---

(Haemir puts on a brave face - Bluff:23)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday June 15th, 2021 4:41:16 PM
“I can do it.” Thorondir says “Can we do it tomorrow, so I can train first?”

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday June 15th, 2021 5:54:12 PM
Sol listens to the requirements, and asks about the challenge.

"Is magic allowed to aid? Or not, one would assume not, but do not wish to rule it out. As that is the only support I would be able to offer..."

He indicates his body

"I am not exactly the strongest or most athletic."

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday June 15th, 2021 6:22:07 PM
Herbert looks at the beggar and feels for him. "Hello, do you mind if I sit next to you for a little bit? I have some bread...I have some to share, if you like? My name is Herbert, I'm here visiting. What is your name? I'd like to hear your story," he says, tearing a large hard roll in half and holding half out as he takes a big bite through the crunchy crust of his own half.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Wednesday June 16th, 2021 12:09:44 AM
Rurik looks up at the towers, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "I have no great skill in climbing in particular, but I do take care to keep my strength of arm in good condition. My only fear is that such things may not be sized appropriately for one of my stature. Regardless, if this is the path to aiding the people of Rattledam, then I will happily climb as many towers as you wish."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Wednesday June 16th, 2021 4:13:18 PM
"How many of us can you 'train' Thorondir"?

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Wednesday June 16th, 2021 10:50:41 PM
"I hope you don't mind me asking, but how did you get hurt? Those wounds look fearful. If Herbert can offer him a drink, safely, he will; otherwise, he won't

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday June 17th, 2021 11:19:26 AM
“I can train 4 of us to climb like a spider. I wonder if I can just become a spider or monkey, do you think that is allowed?”

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Thursday June 17th, 2021 12:51:12 PM
Fand sniffs the air again to confirm the pack smell was not complete, then picking through the scents she notes which one is missing and follows it.
There talking to a man. They look safe. She shrugs and walks over and when spotted - flops, rolls and lets her tongue flop out (her best charming 'Look at me I'm all playful and innocent').
When peoples return to talk, she slowly rolls, stretches, working her way over and taking her time. Occasionally picking grass from a paw, eventually she rests her head on - first Herbert, then the man.
If stroked she purrrs. In a way she does her own therapy.
She sniffs an area on the man that doesn't smell right. Sometimes you can smell an old injury or two. (Strangely she avoids hurting him) finds herself with the mans hand on her head (or Herbets - she's easy). Needy maybe?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+6=8 ;
Thursday June 17th, 2021 5:51:37 PM
Sol sees if he can have a look at what will be being climbed, and see if he can use his not inconsiderable reason to figure out the best route to climb up it.

((Intelligence - 8))

However he doesn't have the knowledge of climbing to know what would be the best option.

He begins looking to see if he can find a scroll of Spider Climb or something along those lines to use if magic is allowed.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday June 17th, 2021 6:59:37 PM
"Four of us you say? I think that should cover all of us."

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Thursday June 17th, 2021 9:34:57 PM
Herbert smiles and skritches the cat, and laughs a little. "It is good to find the little joys in life; to help others, to serve as we are able to." He does wonder about the rest of he Sentinels, and thinks that maybe after his snack and conversation, he should get back to his compatriots.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday June 18th, 2021 12:43:01 AM
Haemir visibly relaxes when Thorondir tells him he won't be dying soon.
"Not sure polymorphing is a good idea. Otherwise I'd just turn into a monkey. It would be funny, but let's try to be subtle maybe"?

Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle)
Friday June 18th, 2021 2:56:56 AM

Before hearing the news about the climbing competition, Herbert concludes his conversation with the beggar. His name is Jon, and he was a great hunter, until he was mauled by a Rapke. Now he can't climb and he can't hunt. Sense motive DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {He is depressed and even wallowing a bit in his misfortune.} He is grateful for the bread and drink -- and even more for the kind ear.

=====

Haemir may be scared at the idea of a climb, but he does not show it as he declares that he is in!

Thorondir also volunteers and hopes it will be tomorrow. He wants to "train."

Haemir suspects that "training" might be useful for more than just Thorondir. He hints that he could offer the ability to climb like a spider.

Sol inquires and learns that anything goes, including magic.

Rurik is not sure he will succeed, but he is willing to try.

As the party ponders options, Needle tells you that you can have as many people as you like, but at least five must complete the course. He reminds you that it is a race, and though it is not necessary to win the competition, it is more impressive if you can. He also mentions that while magic is allowed, its use is considered beneath a true Climber, except for Feather Fall magic, which is appreciated.

Tomorrow morning will be fine.

[PS: Apologies for poor DM posting; I've been sick. I really appreciate people making posts even when the DM is not. Mad props! There will be another DM post early Sat AM.]

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday June 18th, 2021 1:49:07 PM
Speaking to Needle, Thorondir says: "Well, I have no power to feather fall. My skills lie in replicating the abilities of animals. Certainly the climbers have used their time to gain skills in climbing, it seems only fair that I am able to use the skills that I have acquired during my time as well."

Thorondir will prepare 4 spider climbs, but won't use them if it isn't allowed. He doesn't see how of them will finish this course.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Friday June 18th, 2021 7:36:15 PM
Rurik nods in response and vows to spend the rest of the day practicing his climbing abilities.

Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle)
Saturday June 19th, 2021 7:37:45 AM
Needle clarifies. "There are different levels of success. Any success is better than failure. Spider Climbing is allowed, but a success without spider climbing is better than one with."

You do not find a place to stay that will welcome you tonight ... except for one run down tavern who overcharges three gold each to stay in a stable. Or you can return to your ship.

OOC: Please pick one of the below for your action -- do not read both!

If you stay in the tavern / stable: Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear many jokes and stories, the gist of which is that Climbers are clever and strong, and outlanders are weak and stupid.}

If you go back to the ship: Highlight to display spoiler: {One of the crew hears the talk and says, "I'm a great climber!"}

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Sunday June 20th, 2021 1:21:47 PM
Haemir isn't objectionable to a barn but his hammock on the ship is more comfy - so back to Maiden it is.
He almost face-palms when Padre speaks up - of course he'd seen the crewman shooting up the rigging like a monkey!
"Excellent! Welcome to the team"! He pats him on the back!

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Monday June 21st, 2021 10:25:38 AM
"Ok Needle, so if we use the aid of Thorondir n' his spider climbs, we will move faster than most people can climb n' will probably live to tell the tale! However, if we take risks n' do this unassisted... does this make New Rattedam's rewards any better". Haemir (despite not really being a climber) is up for the risk if the rewards are better - but doesn't see the point if it makes no difference.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Monday June 21st, 2021 3:00:01 PM
"So Needle, how long is this course and how much time is usually taken to complete it? Since we don't seem to have access to feather fall, it seems like a spider climb will perhaps keep our folks from falling. How high up does it go? Just need to know if a fall is painful or deadly."

After hearing Needle's comments Thorondir adds:

"I need to go back and check on Aewen and Talpid, so I'm headed back to the Maiden."

He goes back and spends some time with Aewen, flying as an eagle and hunting for food. Once he is back to the Maiden he checks on Talpid the mole and makes sure he is doing well. That is when he hears that Padre can climb.
"Great news Padre, do any of the rest of you fancy yourself climbers?"

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday June 21st, 2021 6:12:09 PM
Rurik decides to stay in the town, unpleasant accommodations bother him little, and he wants to hear what the people there speak of. He learns little of note, and the jeers and laughs do little to daunt him in preparing for his future endeavors.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday June 21st, 2021 6:25:44 PM
Sol returns to the ship, not wanting to over pay for something so simple, and not wishing to outstay his welcome, especially since they're making it clear they don't want the Sentinels there.

"I think we should attempt the course without magic. I can prepare Feather Fall enough times to protect our entire team, and even some of their team too, I think, and assuming we need no other magic from me. I think offering to cast it on their team may also earn us some good will. The impression I get is that whether we succeed or not is not relevant so much as our attitudes and determination that matter."

Assuming no one requests he doesn't Sol will prepare Feather fall with all of his spell slots (as many as he needs, saving two third level slots, one as Fly and one as Hold Person.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) d8=5 ;
Monday June 21st, 2021 9:45:10 PM
Herbert returns to sleep on the ship after his excursion into town. After he is filled in on the happenings by the rest of the party, "Oh! I can do that! I'm normally kinda clumsy, but climbing is something I am good at...well, I've only ever climbed trees...I don't know about these strange grass things...but it probably isn't that different". {climb 4} (I must have accidently clicked on a die roll...don't know wat that is for...)

Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle) d20+8=26 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+8=22 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+7=25 ;
Monday June 21st, 2021 11:54:33 PM

Answering the quesiton, Needle tells you that if you use magic, your performance will carry less weight. For example, if you win with obvious magic, maybe the Climbers will send a journeyman to New Rattledam. If you climb well without magic, maybe a master and a few journeymen will be impressed and come. If you fail, then no one would lose face by accompanying you to New Rattledam.

===== ===== =====

The new day dawns, and you gather at the center of the town for the race. The course is this: Up 100 ft, then across 100 ft, then down the next tower 100 ft. The course is created and designed to be climbed, so to go up requires one DC10 check (and one minute) and to go down requires another DC10 check (and another minute). To go across you can take a slower and safer DC20 path (three minutes) or a faster DC25 path (one minute). If you miss a check by less than 5, you delay a minute. If you miss by five or more you fall and are out of the race

You can climb individually or as a team. If you climb individually, you each make your own roll. If you climb as a team, calculate your check with the ranks of the most skillful climber, plus the bonus of the strongest climber, plus one each for the third, fourth, fifth, etc, members of the team. Being in a team slows you down by one round per team member per leg.

The Climber team goes first. The 9 members of this team mostly have bonuses of at least +9 (3 ranks +3 class bonus, +3 str, for example), and they all move up and down the towers as individuals, at the fastest speed. Two have bonuses of +8 and one has a +7 -- those have to roll. The two at +8 roll a 26 and a 10, so they are fine. The one at +7 rolls a 13, also fine. Everyone ascends in 1 minute.

At the bridge, however, the Climbers go across between the towers as a team. This strategy makes them fast where it is relatively safe, but keeps them safe where it is more dangerous. Now, as a team, they have a +4 for ranks and a +9 for bonus (a strong guy has a feat). That's a base +13. They have another +7 from the rest of their team, for a total of +20. They do not take a chance on the DC25 path, and it takes them three minutes plus 9 rounds to go across, no roll needed.

Finally they downward leg. Again, at DC10, they all go down individually. The three weakest Climbers roll ... 22, 23, and 25, no problem. Total race time is 5 minutes, 9 rounds. (5.9 minutes). The crowd cheers this performance, but the fact is that they played it conservative to minimize the risks.

NOW IT IS YOUR TURN!

Unless someone knows his stats, let's say your NPC, Padre, has 2 ranks, +3 str, +3 as a class skill, and +3 for a feat. His total bonus is 2 ranks +9.

Who will be ascending? You have three legs: Up, Across, and Down. For each leg, will you climb as a team or individually? Will you take the fast DC25 route across or the slow DC20 route?Let's take a post to make sure your tactics are all set, and then after the next DM post we'll make actual rolls, if needed.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+4=18 ;
Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 11:54:51 AM
(whoops I clicked to roll my climb check before reading the last line :p )

"I think that we can climb the legs on our own, it doesn't seem too difficult. The bridge on the other hand.....that we need to do together. I'm not sure I could pull that off."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 7:14:09 PM
"Seems to me the greater the risk.. the greater the reward. We could win this in our sleep, spider-climbing faster than any records they've ever set! But that won't earn respect.
This is a test"! He mumbles taping a finger on his chin: "Step into a man's shoes n' show him you in his world".

The morning:
"I second that Rurik, let's do exactly what they did, but let's use our heads a bit more"

(OOC since we knew we were climbing Haemir would have suggested Bull Strength to Sol/Thorondir. If one is cast on everyone before we arrive - it's subtle. Haemir will be up for going for the tough climb but tbh it's gonna take hero points for a 100% success or risk a 50/50 chance in some cases. He's all in but will be talked down if everyone isn't up for it).

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 11:04:19 PM
Herbert has invested 1 rank in climbing and has a strength mod of 3. no magic assistance.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 1:31:06 AM
Here's my thoughts:

Climbing-101

Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 11:05:49 AM
Rurik suggests doing the ups/downs individually, and the bridge as a team. That's how the NPCs just did it.

Haemir puts together a clear explanation of the options. [OOC: Excellent document, Rich.] He agrees with Rurik but is very open to a less conservative path.

Herbert explains his own capabilities.

Sol and Thorondir offer quiet suggestions [OOC: Saw the emails, thanks. BUt it is always good to make a post.]

The only thing left is to decide on your preferred tactic for the bridge and make rolls! Needles wishes you all good luck!

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+8=17 ; d20+8=12 ;
Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 2:40:31 PM
"I wish I had prepared Bull's Strength but I chose Spider Climb. Bull's Strength only lasts 6 minutes, so it would be difficult to cast prior to showing up here and have it still effective. Spider climb would last an hour, but I guess we decided against using it. I'll climb up and down with my own abilities, and go with the group across."

Aewen circles above, if eagles could look concerned she would. Really though she just looks majestic.

Thorondir prepares to climb (+3 rank, +3 class, +2 strength)= +8

Up 17
Across - letting someone else roll for group, feel free to use one of my hero points for the +8.
Down 12

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+17=22 ; d20+2=16 ;
Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 6:13:09 PM
Haemir stares at people (giving everyone +2 on their next roll as per bw 'guide' ability).
He casts Alter Self (assuming 'himself' form - 'medium' which simply boosts his str up from 9 to 11 and wipes out his negative modifier) using still spell before the climb.

Then he takes something and mutters a word - activating a m/w climbing tool (like a ninja claw in his palm) in one hand. Then he digs deep (uses a hero point in advance +8. With the climbing tool +2 he shouldn't need to roll for the (DC:10) climb up).

The climb across (working as a team):
The highest skill is Padre with: +8 (2 ranks, +3 class, +3 feat)
Rurik has highest str (+4)
+3 for 5 members (assuming Herert climbs)
+2 bw 'guide' most of the party = +17
Rolls (22) so uses a Hero point after the event for +4 = (26) and makes it across - just.

Climbing down he's beginning to realy enjoy himself, sweating, straining, smiling. In the moment he forgets to dig deep and simply climbs (his only assistance the claw (+2) and makes it (Climb:16). It's not till he gets to the bottom he realises he just "did that" and his jaw drops.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 6:15:14 PM
Haemir will also be keeping an eye out (using guide - if he sees someone close to falling - granting them +2)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 7:16:39 PM
Sol watches, having cast Feather Fall on all involved (if the other team request it), however he has nothing more to add at this time.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+4=19 ; d20+4=13 ;
Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 9:50:24 PM
Rurik rubs his hands together, cracks his knuckles and..... ( Climb:19) ascends the platform easily. Being used to walking around carrying the weight of his armor, scrambling up this little platform without it barely qualifies as a workout. Once he reaches the top he looks around to make sure everyone is ok, gives an encouraging nod and holds a hand out to anyone climbing up after, and heads across.

On the climb down, he....( Climb: 15 (OOC forgot to add Haemir's guide ability to the roll) has a bit more difficulty, but manages nonetheless. He isn't really used to going backwards, and with his long beard he has a bit of an issue seeing where exactly to put his feet. Nevertheless he ends up safely on the ground once more, having barely broken a sweat.

"Well that wasn't too bad, I was expecting far worse!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday June 24th, 2021 11:10:36 AM
Thorondir smiles and nods at Rurik's comment. "It was actually kind of fun. These things are until someone falls."

Aewen swoops down, relived that Thorondir is safe. She sits on his shoulder, nuzzling against him.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Thursday June 24th, 2021 11:15:07 AM
(OOC I am not sure but does everyone have to roll for the cross over bit!? The way I understood is everyone rolls but you get the group +17).

(CAYZLE we went the hard way)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+25=43 ;
Thursday June 24th, 2021 11:33:16 AM
OOC: I read it as a group roll, sorry.

Using a hero point, Thorondir easily crosses the horizontal section of the course. Roll = 43

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Thursday June 24th, 2021 12:02:11 PM
Haemir (for the record) refused the Feather Fall.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday June 24th, 2021 12:21:17 PM
Thorondir also did the course with the use of any spells.

Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle)
Thursday June 24th, 2021 4:13:22 PM

Sol watches his friends, feather fall at the ready. Herbert stays behind too.

On the individual legs up and down, Thorondir, Rurik, and Padre climb just fine.

Haemir manages just fine with some very subtle magic and a climbing tool. There is some catcalling and jeering when his climbing tool is put to good use.

The four-person team tries for the faster, tricker climb -- only one roll is needed for the entire team. The most ranks are three (Thorondir) and the highest bonus +11 (+3 str, +3 class +3 feat, +2 Guide; is Padre). There are four climbers, and the extras give a +2. The total is 3+11+2=+16. The roll is a 5, for a total of 21. A retroactive hero point brings that to 25, exactly what is needed!

So the team just manages to win the task!

[OOC: One hero point was spent on this entire climb, Haemir's.]

The crowd is silent, and then some applause rings out.

Needles claps you four on the backs or shakes hands.

There is not much to do after the event. You retire to the ship. In the morning, a master Climber-Builder and one apprentice arrive and agree to work for New Rattledam directing the construction of their dome.

Congratulations!

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday June 24th, 2021 5:56:37 PM
Sol enjoys the revelry and goes over to his compatriots.

"Well done friends, you did a wonderful job, far better than anything I can do, even if I had useful magics to assist me! Congratulations!"

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday June 24th, 2021 6:14:45 PM
Rurik gives a polite bow of thanks, then breaks out in a toothy grin.

"If they thought that was hard physical work, they should have seen what we did under the mountain to shore up the tunnels from goblin attacks!

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday June 25th, 2021 1:45:39 AM
On the way back to the ship - Fand bumps against Herbert till she gets his attention, then she sits and watches him.
It's difficult to pin-point what it is about Fand that makes the Rapke different from most other animals. It's like there's a deeper intelligence or something swimming just below the surface!?
As Herbert walks she nods her head back to the climbers, more specifically towards where Jon (the ex-great hunter) was.
She then nods back in the Maiden's direction.
Was she trying to tell him something?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 2d4=8 ;
Friday June 25th, 2021 9:43:43 AM
Thorondir spends his time on the ship taking care of his Whortleberry bush and his mole friend Talpid. The container they live in seems to be in good shape. He waters the bush and gathers more worms for Talpid. Picking some ripe bluish-red berries, he casts Goodberry and tucks 8 enchanted berries away for future use.

"Well, I'm a bit surprised at how well we did in the race. But we used all the skills we had to do that short event. Doing that all day long while constructing a dome is something well beyond us, I think the climbers deserve more accolades than us. Plus, didn't you see that they purposely took a longer time on the crossing to allow us the opportunity to win? Their technique of slow and safe is what is needed for someone who spends their life climbing. We probably shouldn't try and keep up with them, our method of going fast will eventually lead to disaster."

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Friday June 25th, 2021 10:09:34 PM
"I agree. While I have no issues working to construct this dome if that is what needs to be done, there are those better suited to take on this tasks and tasks better suited for us to take on ourselves."

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Saturday June 26th, 2021 10:39:01 AM
The weather turns overcast shortly after the ship leaves the Climber colony. It remains that way all morning. Things are cooler than usual, but not in the least uncomfortable. The sailors take it in stride, although the navigator is annoyed; the clouds mean he has to use dead reckoning to chart your position, which is less accurate than methods he has when the sun and stars are visible. [OOC: Forgive your uninformed DM; which NPC is the navigator? Or is that a PC?]

By evening, you encounters a windstorm. The sailors have a hard time maintaining their heading in the winds. The ship have no rudder (because grass is not water after all!), and must do all the steering by sail. If you have any relevant skills or other ideas, you may want to help ... whichever way you can.

If you make a know nature check DC15 then Highlight to display spoiler: {These winds are going to get worse.}

If you make a Sailor check vs DC15 then Highlight to display spoiler: {You may want to lower the sails to save them, or maybe use your new special sail, if you want to risk it. Press on or stop and ride it out?}

Thorondir it occurs to you that you might want to take your critters below deck for safety.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=19 ;
Saturday June 26th, 2021 5:05:46 PM
Thorondir grabs his planter with his Whortleberry bush and mole friend and starts to haul them below deck.
"This wind is likely to get worse, perhaps much worse."

He calls to Aewen and the eagle flies down from his perch. He takes her below deck and has her perch on the edge of the Whortleberry container. "Stay here friend, the wind is going to be bad."

Thorondir goes back above deck as the wind buffets him about.
"I can set us deep into the grass if we want to take harbor from this storm instead of running with it. I can shrink the grasses just below the ship, so that the Maiden is sheltered a bit by the grass on all sides. I can also create a tree that we can tie onto, or we can pound stakes into the ground and anchor her. Let me know if that is something you desire, I don't know much about sailing, even less so in a storm."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Monday June 28th, 2021 12:11:15 AM
Thorondir licks his finger and holds it up, trying to judge the speed of the wind. He then takes a geatheryand lets it go, watching as it flies away.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+10=13 ; d20+1=13 ;
Monday June 28th, 2021 5:52:53 AM
Haemir is napping when the storm hits. The juddering wakes him up and he heads up on deck sleepy-headed and too tired to think, it doesn't occur to him to do much (Sailing:13).
"If you can make the grass grow back afterwards Thorondir - why not. It's a better plan than any I have" he confesses then adds: "We should organise watches" .
Then he goes to check on the climbers, introducing himself he explains the maiden is going to sit the storm out. He tries to get a read on them (Sense motive:13) but he knows he's not the most perceptive on such matters.

CDM Jerry [OOC post]
Monday June 28th, 2021 4:31:56 PM
Greetings Woldians!

We have TWO games that have achieved Level 20 and just retired over the weekend! So in our usual tradition, we're holding a celebration for the next few days on the Giggling Ghost board!

Folks are already beginning to gather. We expect everyone to join in and post daily on the GG board, but all are excused from posting in their "regular career game" through Wednesday at least. :) It doesn't mean you can't post, just that you don't have to.

DMs if you're in combat, feel free to just post a "pause until after Wednesday" if you'd like, or you can do that anyway. These celebrations are important as both of these games have players who have been working for at least 9 years to achieve this retirement for their PCs.

--DMs may take the role of an NPC or 2 if they wish and hand out dishes, create action, help out, etc.
--Anyone may take the stage and tell a story or sing a song.
--Post as many times a day as you'd like on the Giggling Ghost board.

Entertain yourselves and enjoy!

Yes you may go there now and post.
Yes you should go there now and post.
What are you waiting for?
Yes, now is fine.
Are you still reading this? Why?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday June 28th, 2021 6:06:40 PM
Sol is writing in his journal when the storm hits, and he himself has no skills that would be applicable here, despite his attempts to learn, so he simply stows his journal and gear below deck nearby where he sleeps, returns to the deck and helps wherever he can, as instructed by those more trained in these things.

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Monday June 28th, 2021 11:30:44 PM

Haemir gives the order to drop anchor, at least figuratively, and he helps bring the sails down.

Thorondir is no sailor, but he plays a vital role in nestling the ship out of the winds and anchoring it to a tree.

Sol mostly stays out of trouble, below decks with the Climber delegation, Needles, and the other heroes.

Setting watches, then? There will be two NPC crew on each watch. Any of you heroes want to join them? Let's assume three watches before dawn.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday June 29th, 2021 2:47:25 PM
Once the ship has halted, Thorondir accomplishes his tasks by first casting diminish plants in an area that includes the ship and extends 10 feet out on all sides. He then takes his last feather token, and plants it at in the small clearing behind the ship. A large stout oak tree springs up, and he asks the crew to fasten the ship to the tree with ropes. Once the crew has done so, Thorondir then says:

"Hopefully the grasses will block some of the wind and the tree will hold us fast. I'm a bit worried about our vulnerability down low in the grass, so I will create some spikes around the ship. Don't leave the ship or the spikes will pierce your feet."

Once he is satisfied that he has done all he can do to keep the Maiden and the crew safe he adds:
"I need to rest for a bit, I'll take the last watch."

Thorondir will then cast Spike Growth, the area should cover from the edge of the Maiden out 20 feet in all directions.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Tuesday June 29th, 2021 3:51:21 PM
"The four anchors, one in each corner should help. I'll take second watch with Fand. Great work Thorondir n' thanks"!

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday June 29th, 2021 11:13:15 PM
[OOC: Per Jerry, posting is optional while we enjoy the Giggling Ghost party. Please head over there. I'll make a DM Post when we have a few more player posts.]

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday June 30th, 2021 5:15:34 PM

In the midst of the storm, a figure appears, stumbling in through the grass. Clearly in need of shelter, this person comes during the first watch. The crew ring the bell, and everybody wakes up who is asleep.

Is this a threat? A wandering monster?

[OOC: No, its our newest PC, played by SteveK! Please give a big welcome, and describe yourselves. We're still in the slowdown, so also go to the Giggling Ghost please.]

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday June 30th, 2021 6:06:46 PM
OOC: I had spike growth 20 feet out around the ship, so unfortunately the new guy has to deal with that before he gets to the ship. "Any creature moving on foot into or through the spell's area takes 1d4 points of piercing damage for each 5 feet of movement through the spiked area." Sorry

Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 51 / 52 HP | Ruby d20+18=26 ; d4=1 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+19=37
Thursday July 1st, 2021 12:28:52 AM
Deliberately moving, Rubalad eases towards the bulk in front of him. He moves towards it, nearly seeing the spike growth, but not quite…

The small figure in the dark stops and considers, bending to look at the Grasses and rub a leg. Not permanently injured, he decides, and makes a decision.

”Ho the… the boat! Be ye good souls to take in a person who doesn’t quite know where he is?”

When more light is available, anyone can see the striped badger stands on his hind feet, barely topping 3 foot tall. He wears the mottled greens and tans of a hunter. Chain mail, scimitar and shield look well cared for and used. He blinks, then speaks in a pleasant baritone; “I am Rubalad of Amberdale, and I greet you as an equal in the Wold.”

He looks for the humans i among the crew for motives, feeling they are easier to read…

……..
Perception 26. To see the spike growth. Fail
Damage. 1
Reflex 17 vs ?DC to avoid injury
Sense Motive. 37. Are they aggressive, do they wish a Beast-folk harm?

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+1=15 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=15 ;
Thursday July 1st, 2021 12:23:10 PM
A violin tune echoes from below deck ... (Perform:15) snippets in the wind. Until the alarm goes up, then a 6'2 slim elf with grey, weather-beaten marble-like skin, dusty hair (or vines?) and eyes that mirror every exotic colour of the Sargrass steps up in deck and stretches as if he's shaking a knot from his back. Hearing a voice (perception:15) he moves to the edge of The Maiden of the Plains.

"By Gargul's beard, there's someone out there"! He steps closer to the edge and peers into the dark. "Greetings Rubalad of Amberdale. You are more than welcome" he calls back "but please wait there are traps laid out"...

He turns to Thorondir and asks if the druid can remove the spikes.
---

(With such an amazing sense motive - it's easy to tell the dark elf seems open, friendly, concerned and curious).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+4=14 ; d20+9=20 ;
Thursday July 1st, 2021 3:18:48 PM
Coming up from below deck, an elf dressed in a cloak of green and brown looks out toward the sound of a voice. He sees a badger, but one dressed in armor. Another beast folk, he wonders if this one speaks badger.

"He looks friendly, but doesn't it seem strange for someone to come upon us in the night out here in the Sargrass? Perhaps it is a trick, a shape shifter perhaps?"

sense motive 15

He looks carefully at the badger. Perception 20
"I think he is another beastfolk, they seem to come in all sorts. I don't think removing the spikes is a good idea, if I bring them down we may be attacked from all sides. This friendly looking fellow may be trying to trick us. How about instead we lower him a plank and he can walk across it to the ship. That way we are still protected in case there are others waiting to board the ship."

Thorondir will then get the plank they use to connect with the docks (we must have one), and lowers it to make a ramp up to the ship.
"Come aboard, please excuse my caution."

Once he comes aboard Thorondir pulls up the plank.

"So, where did you come from and how did you find us at night in a storm?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Friday July 2nd, 2021 6:04:51 PM
Fand stands up on her back legs, leans on the railing with her front paws and looks outwards - next to Haemir.
"Are you copying me"? He asks the Rapke without looking.
She snorts, drops down and swaggers off.

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Friday July 2nd, 2021 6:49:32 PM

A plank is laid and the newcomer has the chance to come aboard.

Rubalad senses no ill intent from these people.

Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 51 / 52 HP | Ruby d20+15=22 d20+15=22
Saturday July 3rd, 2021 2:04:53 AM
Accepting the preferred plank, Rubalad agilely walks the plank, but to safety he hopes! Elves, he thinks, oh and some humans, and a dwarf and… ah, yes, another beast-folk in the dark! And they seem curious and cautious, both good signs.

”I was wondering the same thing: how did you find me? And why is your boat stuck in a forest of grass? I… well… sigh… I’m lost. Completely lost. And that’s hard for a Tracker to admit. But if you could just tell me what level I am on, I’d be grateful.”

Rubalad keeps his eyes and ears open, knowing that if this group are really bandits or slavers, he just gave them vital information on how vulnerable he is. But, in for a copper, in for a platinum, and he has to start somewhere.

…….

Perception. 22
Sense Motive 22

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Saturday July 3rd, 2021 5:08:26 PM
"The Maiden of the Plains, that is the name of this ship, has two levels. You are on the upper level, which I believe we just call the deck. The lower level is where our cabins and storage is, and we call that below deck. Have you never been on a boat? This particular boat floats on the grass, because the druid wood it is constructed of and the grass push back on each other."

Thorondir looks the badger up and down.

"Excuse me, I am Thorondir. The druids have sent me to watch over this ship and its occupants. I am the one who laid down the trap that cut your foot. Here, eat on of these goodberries, it will heal your cut and fill your stomach."

Thorondir offers a purplish-red whortleberry to the new arrival.

Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 52 / 52 HP | Ruby
Monday July 5th, 2021 11:46:35 AM
Rubalad nods and eats the whortleberry. He then drinks from his water skin and offers it to Thorondir. “A gift for a gift”, he says. ”It contains some cold lemon tea”, he explains.

But the self-named Tracker shakes his furry head and tries again. “I mean what ring?” Several questions later including words like ‘plateau’, ‘magic roads’, and ‘New Elennia’, and the badger shakes his head again, this time in dawning wonder and horror. ”It sounds like this place isn’t anywhere on the Elennian Peninsula at all! Where am I?”

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Monday July 5th, 2021 5:26:47 PM
"Master Rubalad of Amberdale, you are in the Sargrass Plains where water can attract monsters, you must be careful they can smell it for miles"! The elf definitely looks concerned - especially when the lid came off of a suddenly produced waterskin.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday July 5th, 2021 6:08:12 PM
Sol sticks his head out, he has brown hair in a half up, half down style, boyish looks but his eyes flash with bright intelligence. He has a smile which is never far from his face, and often has his journal out, which he often is writing in.

"Why hello, I'm Elijah Solomon, call me Sol. It is good to have another addition to our merry band!"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=10 ;
Monday July 5th, 2021 8:09:43 PM
"He is right about the water, best to save that for a drink later. Thanks for the offer. I don't know about the Elennian Peninsula, but he is correct again. You are in the Sargrass Plains, where exactly it is hard to determine. Maps are a bit useless here."

Thorondir looks about at the effect of the winds on the ship, trying to get a sense of what is in store.
Knowledge Nature 10, nat. 1 roll

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Monday July 5th, 2021 11:13:17 PM
"More friends! Hullo! I'm Herbert Bramblerose! Pleased to make your acquaintance! his bright black and brown eyes gleaming with delight. "Are you from far away lands? There is so much to learn! I'm not the best at learning though, although I do enjoy stories!"

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 12:54:57 AM

You become acquainted with the stranger in the night, a complete neophyte regarding the hazards of the Sargrass Plains. There will be some learning to do with this one!

But not tonight! After midnight, the windstorm actually worsens. You have a choice: continue to lie doggo, anchored as best you can, and resist the wind. Or release the ropes and try to ride the storm out.

If you make a Know Nature check DC10, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {The winds are going to get even worse!}

If you make a Sailing check DC12, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {If you stay tied down, there is a chance the ropes will break, or that the wind will blow something against the ship, or that the ship will suffer damage!}

If you make a Sailing check DC18, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {It will be hard, very hard, like DC25 hard, to sail these winds successfully. But it is possible.}

Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 52 / 52 HP | Ruby d20+5=19 ;
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 2:50:31 AM
Rubalad jerks as if stung. ”Sargrass? I’ve never heard of the Sargrass before.”. He looks quizzically at Haemir and Thorondir, wondering if they are having a joke at the beast-folk. Besides, his waterskin has a nozzle, not a lid, but…

Sol and Herbert’s friendliness puts him more at ease. ”Why hello, and call me Ruby. Pleased to make your acquaintance.”

The wind intensifies, and the Tracker looks at the poles and ropes hanging above the boat. ”Wind is going to get even worse before it gets better. Is this thing going to hold together?”

…..
Know Nature. 19

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+12=27 ; d20+13=17 ;
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 3:18:20 AM
"Master Rubalad we will help you however we can n' or course, explain how things work here in the plains! But for now we have a more pressing decision to make"... (Using BW 'guide' for +2 = Profession (Sailing):27)

"If we stay tied down there's a chance the ropes'll break, or the Maiden could get damaged! If we sail these winds, it'll be a real nasty challenge n' would take all hands probably"! He ponders, his hand stroking his chin. "Could we take the sails down and dig in? Maybe raise the soil like a protective bank"? (Knowledge Nature:17).

(Ref how tough is the ground? Is this a daft plan?)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=11 ; d20+5=15 ;
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 9:11:43 AM
"I agree, these winds will get much worse. Well, if these ropes do break we will be at the mercy of the wind, but being able to run with the wind sounds even worse. I've used all the skills I posses to set the ship deep in the grass and anchor her. I'm not sure what to do Haemir, you have the sailing experience. I leave this up to you."

Thorondir looks around at the ropes and anchors, obviously concerned.

Knowledge nature 11
Sailing check 15

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 2:07:58 PM
"If continuing means danger to the ship, I say we hunker down and wait for the storm to blow over. We are in no great rush, and I trust your judgements."

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20=9 ;
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 4:50:21 PM
Sol smiles at Ruby.

"Ruby eh? Good to meet you!"

As the winds pick up, Sol frowns, trying to stay strapped down, his lack of strength meaning he doesn't want to try to resist the wind normally.

"I believe the wind is going to get worse! What other countermeasures do we have?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 5:51:19 PM
"The wind may cause the ropes to break, unless someone has a way to strengthen the ropes we may be in trouble trying to anchor in this wind. The tree is the strongest thing we have tied to, much stronger than the stakes at each corner of the Maiden. With the ropes being the weakest link, we need to consider our options, and quickly I think."

Thorondir wants to make sure that everyone understands the true danger. He doesn't have a way to strengthen the ropes.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 7:06:54 PM
The elf listens to each person in turn, nodding and acknowleYdging and when all is said he steps up and stares into the dark storm. His hair whips behind him and the wind threatens to carry his words away, yet still he manages to be heard.
"Some of you look at me like I know what I'm doing, but I'm just a professor who's survived by sheer dumb luck more than anything else"... For a while he continues brooding, then shrugs and strikes a pose indicative of a stubbornness, he is either insane or knows something no mortal can?!

"I can't explain it n' I don't expect you to understand but, there's a kind of insanity that comes with sailing. I mean who in their right mind faces the storms the deaths, n' just keeps on going. At least here we don't face waves that as high as..."! The last bit sounds like he's trying to convince himself. "Dunno about you, but I think I'd rather ride the storm than cower n' hope fer mercy. We hide n' pray .. Or we weave the threads of our own fate"! He looks from person to person. "Did you expect it to be easy"? He says with a resigned chuckle. "When we arrived here the plains tried to kill us every minute, At least now she's offering us a choice"!

If everyone's in he starts a quick basic training, allocating specific jobs and getting crew to show everyone that one role. If everyone knows one task he believes he can conduct an orchestra and maybe, just maybe everyone lives through the night in one peace. If not then Gargul will have a busy night recycling their souls. For morale purposes though he keeps that thought to himself.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 8:34:49 PM
”Well we stayed long enough to rescue Ruby, or to have Ruby find us. It seems like anchoring was a good idea. Now let us ride the wind.”

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday July 6th, 2021 10:26:28 PM
"I don't know what's going on, but I'll help any way I can, even if it means staying out of the way and holding on tight. Oh, bother, but this has turned into a blustery day!"
OOC: ;)

Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 52 / 52 HP | Ruby d20=7 ;
Wednesday July 7th, 2021 12:25:11 AM
Ruby listens to the owners of the Maiden above the winds howl, and nods to himself. Then he speaks up. “Make your own way and not let anyone else put you in a hole? I feel as you do, Haemir. Let’s ride the wind and make our own impact upon the Wold!”

With that, the short beast-folk begins helping by untying knots in ropes.
…..

Ooc: not sure what skill or ability to use. 7+…
Escape Artist to get out of bound ropes? 0
CMB to tie? 8
Survival? 15
Disable Device? 11

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+20=27 ;
Wednesday July 7th, 2021 1:11:09 AM
Like a madman he suggests people are lashed to rails or masts and he gives the Maiden over to the storm. On command the ropes are released.

Screaming above the wind he gives orders and tries his best to ride it out. Guiding crew and party to do the little jobs whilst he turns the wheel.

Sure lives are at risk, but if anyone looks closely in amidst the storm there is an elf who feels alive. In fact you could say its the most alive you've seen him ever. He might just be enjoying himself! The madman!
---

(Using a hero point up front (+8) - well done refs you're making a nice collection of mine, and his guide ability for (+2) with sailing (+10) he manages a Total of profession sailing (27)).

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday July 7th, 2021 10:18:54 AM

The wind whips ever-higher, ever-faster, and you make the wise decision to ride it out rather than resist it. With a heroic effort, the Maiden sails before the storm, travelling faster than she has so far, and to where? We'll see.

Eventually the wind dies down, and the damage to the ship is minimal. A few Mending cantrips will suffice. At length you deem it safe to drop anchor, and the Maiden comes to a halt. What a wild ride!

Even Thomas (the NPC navigator) is impressed. "Piggies pillows," he says, a particularly dirty cuss, "how the rutt we made it through that I don't know. Shady props, my mates!"

Everybody, please make a DC15 fort save. If you save, you gain the fatigued condition; if you fail, you are exhausted.

What's next? Maybe some rest?

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+7=9 ; d20+8=17 ;
Wednesday July 7th, 2021 1:14:59 PM
When the wind dies down and his adrenaline slows Haemir slumps down (Fort:9), every muscle aches and he's exhausted.
"I feel like I've been run over by an apple cart... Need some rest I think"! Reaching in his bag he pulls out a bottle of wine and he raises it as a toast. "You all did find jobs, you're hired"! He chugs some and passes the bottle around.
He's asleep within seconds - before the next person has even drunk, back against a mast, snoring like a baby.

Fand (Fort:17) plods over and flops across his lap grunting. She's fatigued but stays alert (ish).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+5=11 ; d20+3=18 ;
Wednesday July 7th, 2021 2:14:34 PM
"Well that was an experience, I think I prefer the wind in my face as I fly with Aewen."

Thorondir fumbles for a small cloth and pulls it from his pouch. He opens it and 7 purplish-red berries fall out. He picks up one and eats it.

"These may help, at least they will get you fed. Help yourself."

Thorondir consumes a goodberry and then slumps down against the side rail and falls asleep.

Aewen, perches above and keeps a weary eye out.

Fort Thorondir 11
Fort Aewen 18

Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 52 / 52 HP | Ruby d20+8=17 ; d20+15=18 ;
Wednesday July 7th, 2021 4:55:41 PM
Wind whipping through his fur, dark thunder and the creaking of the boat, Rubalad has to admit it was exciting!!

As the Maiden comes to a halt and the crew drop anchor, the two elves drop asleep. Though tired, Rubalad isn’t ready to drop his guard. ”i’ll watch the first hour or so”, he offers, and dismounts from the boat to do a scout in a 50’ circle around the Maiden.

……
Fort 17. Fatigued.
Survival. 18. Looking for tracks and spoor

Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+4=5 ; d20+2=11 ;
Wednesday July 7th, 2021 6:53:50 PM
Sol, after stressing out his poor fragile body during the storm, and helping repair this ship with his Magic, immediately drops into something soft and falls asleep for a short nap, his body totally exhausted, as does Corbin. They are asleep in moments.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+9=23 ;
Thursday July 8th, 2021 12:11:27 AM
Rurik wipes his brow, looking back at the rest of the party, who threw pragmatism aside for a terrifying and death defying victory. He marvels at the willingness to throw caution to the wind, and in a way, deep down, is ashamed of his own words of warning before.

"By my beard, those thunderclouds were intense!

Rurik shakes his head, running a hand through his hair

"It seems we're clear of the worst now, and I hope to never have to deal with such a storm again. You lot rest up, you've done well. I'll keep watch for now."

Rurik walks to the fore of the ship, and, sitting upon the bowsprit with his sword in his lap, begins to meditate.

Fort 23

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) d20+2=13 ; d20+2=12 ;
Thursday July 8th, 2021 2:36:31 PM

A few hours later, around noon, most of the crew and party are resting, but Rurik and Rubalad are on watch. Both are fatigued. While you are on watch, two monsters try to sneak on board. They have a +2 on Stealth, which is really quite high considering their size. They roll a 13 and a 12.

Rurik and Rubalad, make a Perception check vs DC12 to avoid surprise.

Haemir is asleep (prone) on deck. Perception check vs DC22 to wake up. Fand is "alert-ish" and fatigued, DC17 to not be surprised.

Thorondir is asleep (prone) on deck. Perception check vs DC22 to wake up. Aewen has a "weary eye" open and is fatigued, DC15 to not be surprised.

Sol is asleep in a soft bunk below deck. Perception check vs DC27 to hear the monsters and wake up.

Herbert is asleep below deck too. Perception check vs DC27 to hear the monsters and wake up.

Sleepers, per the rules, an hour of sleep changes your exhaustion to fatigue. You need 8 hours to get rid of fatigue, so if you were fatigued, you still are.

Fatigued: A fatigued character can neither run nor charge and takes a -2 penalty to Strength and Dexterity. Doing anything that would normally cause fatigue causes the fatigued character to become exhausted. After 8 hours of complete rest, fatigued characters are no longer fatigued.

The two monsters are ginormous centipedes! One crawls up the anchor line and onto the ship. The other rears up and hoists half its body onto the ship; the other halfway on the line.

Next step: Roll perception checks. If you were already awake, you may make an attack as the monsters approach. If you were asleep, see if you wake up, and then take a move action please.

Note any ongoing or current buffs/effects you have up, please.

[OOC: I'm running this fight with no map. Below deck you have total cover and no line of sight. On deck everybody is in range of everybody else, so no map needed. If you are sleeping/prone on deck, you provoke an AoO standing up, per usual.]

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Conditions: both Fatigued d20+8=9 ;
Thursday July 8th, 2021 3:12:12 PM
Interesting fact about Haemir, he's not the most observant person you'll ever meet - he always seems somewhat distracted?! Like he's half somewhere-else.
(Let's put it this way even if he rolled a nat 20 he still wouldn't make DC:22) he sleeps...

Fand (Perception:9 - rolling a nat '1'!!! I'm going with she just happened to drop off seconds before they did their creepy-crawly stuff over the edge).

Both stretch in unison dreaming.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=19 ; d20+10=17 ;
Thursday July 8th, 2021 3:48:29 PM
Thorondir (Perception 19) has never been more tired, and he has fallen deeply asleep. The skittering sound does not awaken him. Aewen (Perception 17) however does not plan on letting her friend sleep so soundly without a watchful eye. The sound and movement alerts the eagle who looks down at her sleeping friend below her. She drops down with a scream and graps Thorondir with her talons. She hops in front of him with her wings spread out wide, screeching at the centipedes.

Now awaken, Thorondir staggers to his feet and searches out the cause of Aewen's actions.

Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/12/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=16 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+8=18 ; d4+9=12 ; d2+8=9 ;
Thursday July 8th, 2021 4:19:49 PM
Rubalad notices the two centipedes and gives a mighty shout. ”By my oath, you are under attack! AWAKE AND DEFEND!!”. Scimitar and shield come to hand!

Feeling sluggish, the small hero notes Rurik near the bow, and so leaves the monster crawling up the anchor chain to the dwarf, while he attacks the creature trying to come amidships.

Ruby puts some power behind his scimitar strike, and then he slams his spiked shield forward and back in an economical thrust that leaves no opportunity to attack while his defense is down.

…..

Perception. 16. (Really glad skills don’t have Nat 1 fail)

Move Action. Move to block Centipede from belowdecks

Standard Action
Scimitar (power attack, Fatigued). AC 21 Dam 11
Spiked shield (improved shield bash, power attack, Fatigued ) AC 17. Dam 8

Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+10=17 ; d20+8=11 ;
Thursday July 8th, 2021 5:46:15 PM
Sol remains contentedly asleep below decks, snuggled up and allowing his exhaustion to begin to leave his body.

Corbin also remains asleep, snuggled in bed with his master.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+2=21 ; d20+12=24 ; d20+7=16 ; 2d4+6=10 ; 2d4+6=11 ;
Thursday July 8th, 2021 10:14:03 PM
Rurik hears rustling in the grass, and looks over to see something serpentine cutting a path through the foliage. Scrambling to his feet, before he can shout anything the rearing forms of the gigantic bugs break the surface of the grass.

Perception: 21

"TO ARMS!!! TO ARMS!!! AWAKE, AWAKE, UP AXES AND BOWSTRINGS!!"

Without checking to see if any hear his call, Rurik charges unquestionably into combat with the nearest monstrosity, bringing his falchion to bear.

Falchion attack, 24 to hit, 10 dmg
Second attack, 16 to hit, 11 dmg

(OOC I'm still new to pathfinder, so if I got my math wrong or didn't so something right pls let me know. I added BAB+STR mod+enchantment from sword for to hit modifier, which worked out to 12, with a -5 for my second attack. Damage is 2d4 on a falchion, +2 from the enchantment, and another 4 from my strength. No extra abilities or anything special added on these)

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday July 8th, 2021 10:16:16 PM
(OOC just realized I have another +1 to hit with falchion attacks from weapon focus feat, if it matters)

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Friday July 9th, 2021 11:19:24 AM
"got to get all the blackberries! But we have to be careful of the snurglebursters.." Herbert mutters in his sleep.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday July 9th, 2021 5:07:50 PM
Upon standing, Thorondir feels a squish under his foot as several of the goodberries he spilled make purplish stains upon the deck. He rubs his eyes and opens them wide.
"That is a big centipede Aewen, beware its bite."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Conditions: both Fatigued d20+11=13 ;
Saturday July 10th, 2021 12:56:44 AM
"Huh.. What's goi"... There's enough racket going on now (correct me if I'm wrong) for Fand to wake up who in turn wakes Haemir. It takes him a few seconds to realise there are horrors on-board and his eyes bug out. Without standing he casts a spell (Concentration:13) defensively and fails.

Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/12/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Saturday July 10th, 2021 7:39:25 AM
Ruby realizes there are sleepy spellcasters near the monsters, and they are vulnerable! The badger uses his previous movement to dance about, inviting the centipede’s AOOs so they can’t strike the standing wizard or witch.

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) d20+16=25 ; 3d6+7=19 ; d3=2 [AoO on Th] ; d20+12=22 ; 3d6+7=19 ; d3=1 [attack on Rur] ; d20+12=16 [attack on Rub fails]
Saturday July 10th, 2021 7:52:41 AM

Ever vigilant even when fatigued, Rurik and Rubalad stand to face the monsters, giving their comrades a chance to wake up.

Rurik attacks Centipede One, slashing twice, penetrating once. The monster's chitin is tough! But Rurik manages a solid hit for 10 damage.

Rubalad attacks Centipede Two with shield and scimitar. The blade just sneaks past a joint in the monster's carapace, hitting for 11 damage.

No fears about these monsters heading belowdecks! Our heroes have managed to nab their attentions!

Thorondir's companion senses the danger and awakens its master. Thorondir stands up, drawing an attack of opportunity from Centipede One. It strikes with an extra +4 against the prone hero (AoOs happen before the event that provokes them). The monster hits AC25, and the vermin's poisoned mandibles hit hard. Thorondir, please take 19 damage and make a DC 19 Fort save for 1d3 (2, this time) Dex damage. You'll be doing the same every round for 6 rounds or until you make one save. The druid looks around and determines that at least there are only two of these monsters, they are giant vermin, and that they will indeed be a challenge to the party.

Both Haemir and his companion failed their checks to awaken for this surprise round. You may wake up now. You did not cast a spell. You are prone on the main deck. You may now act.

Belowdecks, Herbert and Sol have been sleeping, but now the sounds of combat waken both of them. You may now act. Recall that you are prone, so you have to take a move action to wake up. It will take another move action to come up on deck, should you so choose.

======

Centipede One bites at Rurik. It hits AC22, piercing Rurik's armor and inflicting 19 hp damage. Like Thorondir, please take also make a DC 19 Fort save for 1d3 (1, this time) Dex damage. You'll be doing the same every round for 6 rounds or until you make one save.

Centipede Two bites at Rubalad. It hits AC16, missing the small stout fellow outright.

======

Centipede One (fighting Rurik and Thorondir) (AC21) - 10 damage
Centipede Two (fighting Rubalad) (AC21) - 11 damage

[OOC: Extra DM Note - Your DM truly does not want Ruby's sacrifice to be in vain, so let's assume that your attempt to provoke AoOs happens at the start of next round. Besides which, you made a full attack this round and do not have a move action left. DO you seek to draw AoOs from Centipede One (near Thorondir), Centipede 2 (near Haemir), or both, gods help you!]

Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 29/18/26 CMD 26 HP 52/52 Ruby
Saturday July 10th, 2021 9:26:16 AM
With Thorondir already standing, Ruby makes himself a target for Centipede 2, going fully defensive and waving his scimitar about. “Come on, you nasty beast! Don’t I look yummy! Come give me a bite, you milksop! I’ll smash you with a shinai into the living room rug!”

…
Trying to draw Centipede 2’s AOO so Haemir can stand up.

Fully Defensive AC +6
Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex, no run or charge

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+5=9 ;
Saturday July 10th, 2021 6:48:47 PM
Thorondir is hit hard, but things need to change soon. Concentrating he assumes the form of an Air Elemental. Moving towards the nearest centipede he forms a Whirlwind

Aewen hops backwards away from Thorondir as he becomes an Air Elemental.

https://cayzle.com/pfsrd///monsters/universalMonsterRules.html#whirlwind

Fatigued. -2 Str and -2 Dex, no run or charge
Poison -2 Dex
Air Elemental form +2 Dex
Dexterity total = 18 -2 Fatigued, -2 Poison, +2 Air Elemental form = 16

Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Conditions: both Fatigued d20+8=25 ; d6+4=5 ; d20+8=26 ; d3+4=7 ; d20+8=26 ; d3+4=5 ; d20+6=25 ;
Monday July 12th, 2021 4:35:40 PM
Fand wakes and instinctively becomes a ball of frothing claws and teeth.

Including prone (-4) Attks: 21/22/22 for Dmg: 5/7/5.
(AC:25 Vs attacks of opportunity).

From somewhere a female voice cries out: "Run Soldier". Reverberating around the plains it may (or may not) sound familiar to Sol?! Anyone cool-headed enough to be paying attention - it was the Rapke.
---

Meanwhile, fun fact No.2 Haemir doesn't wake up well. He sorta shouts: "agggh", looks at the creature for a second or two and then screams again "Ayyyyiii" then spotting the small Beastfolk he yells: "Don't dance around.. KILL IT RUBY"!

He stands and points at the nearest monster very defiantly: "You spongy, onion-eyed, foot-licking, flax-wench, I curse you to be as useless as a small worm" and casts: Bestow Curse. (Will DC:18 negates. SR:26. If successful it grants a –4 penalty on attack rolls, saves, ability checks, and skill checks).

"Everyone concentrate on one n' hit it hard"!

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday July 12th, 2021 4:42:50 PM
Sol awakens with a start, and gets up, hearing the sounds of battle.

"What on earth is going on up there?" he takes a moment to intone a few words of power and cast Mage Armour on himself.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 45/48 HP | d20+9=11 ; 3d6=16 ;
Monday July 12th, 2021 7:24:42 PM
Rurik staggers backwards, clutching his head in pain as blood drips from between his fingers. He feels the effects of blood loss slow his movements, and channels divine energy through his hand to help close the wound. Putting his hand back to his blade, he activates its innate magic, intricate runes glowing red hot as the weapon bursts into flame.

"You won't be dining on dwarf today, monster."

Glancing back at the rest of the group, he sees them focusing on the other bug.

"Drive back the beast! I can hold this creature here, at least for now."

(Fort Save 11 FAIL, swift action to use Lay on Hands on myself for 16 HP, standard action to activate flaming property of the falchion)

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) d20+12=26 ; d20=9 ; d3=3 ; d3=3 ; d20+12=19 ; 3d6+7=24 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=23 ; 3d6+7=19 ; 3d6+7=14 ; d3=1 ;
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 12:18:04 AM

Rubalad heroically tries to draw the monster's attention, hoping it will strike at him instead of at Haemir. He succeeds, and the monster attacks him ... hitting AC26 -- not good enough, and the nimble badger-kin dodges away!

Thorondir changes into an air elemental. That's a standard action. He would like to change into a whirlwind, but becoming a whirlwind is a separate standard action to activate a supernatural ability. He'll have to wait until next round to become a whirlwind.

Note: as Thorondir ponders the whirlwind option, he realizes that they are too big to pick up and too big to be damaged by the whirlwind. The whirlwind, however, would impose a -2 on attacks and a -4 on dexterity.

Thorondir is fatigued and poisoned (make a second DC19 Fort save this round, take 3 more dex damage if you fail).

Haemir's friend Fand attacks and connects thrice for 17 damage to Centipede Two.

Haemir himself casts Bestow Curse on Centipede Two. The creature fails its save!

Belowdecks, Sol stands and casts mage armor on himself.

Rurik fails his poison save (make a second DC19 Fort save this round, take 3 more dex damage if you fail). He cures himself and activates his flaming blade.

Herbert has woken and stood up too, but seems a bit disoriented.

======

Centipede One bites at Rurik. It hits AC19, exactly what it needs to hit. Rurik suffers 24 damage, but at least since he is already poisoned, he does not have to worry about even more poison.

Centipede Two bites at Fand! It hits (at -4) vs AC28, a natural 20 and a crit threat. It confirms vs AC23. Fand is AC23 (unless you can explain the 23/27 in your header?). So if the crit is not confirmed, Fand takes 19 damage; if the crit is confirmed, the companion takes 19+14=33 damage. AND make a DC19 Fort save this round, take 1 point of dex damage if you fail.

======

Centipede One (fighting Rurik and Thorondir) (AC21) - 10 damage
Centipede Two (fighting Rubalad, Fand) (AC21) - 28 damage plus cursed -4 on attacks, saves, checks

Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+9=11 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+5=24 ; d2+4=6 ; d4+2=6 ; d4+2=6 ;
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 1:27:19 AM
Ruby hisses as the great mandibles snap on thin air, and then again on the… well… whatever it is that follows Haemir about. Strong and poisonous! The elf himself, though, is safe, and it seems, not just thinking about his own actions. The badger-kin growls deep in his throat. ”Elves have a funny way of saying ‘thank you Rubalad for not letting me get bitten!’ And I’ll be sure to comment the next time you don’t need spell-casting advice!”

The dwarf on the other hand, nobly blocks the first monster while the others concentrate on the second. Ruby would have done the same, but Rurik suggested it first. That means Ruby’s job is to end his fight as fast as possible.

The Tracker stops being defensive and slides in for the attack, not holding back anything. Vermin ichor drips from his muzzle as he snarls at the centipede!
…..

Scimitar 11 miss
Scimitar 17 miss
Shield Bash nat20! Crit! Not confirmed. 5 damage (with Fatigue)
Bite! Nat20! Crit! Confirmed! 6+6= 12 damage (with Fatigue)

Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 (17) | CMD 19 | 33/48 HP | d20+9=12 ; d20+12=28 ; d20+7=19 ; 2d4+14=19 ; 2d4+14=21 ; d6=3 ; d6=5 ; 3d6=12 ;
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 1:43:10 AM
Rurik stumbles as he hefts his blade, the healing he had given himself not enough to cleanse the poison from his system, or to stop the bleeding. Blinking away the wooziness, he is brought harshly back to reality as the centipede bites him again, taking advantage of his lowered guard to latch on to his shoulder.

Gritting his teeth, he lashes out with his falchion once more, blade biting deep into the chitin covered monstrosity. Kicking the beast away from himself, he once again holds his hand up to his wound, and channels healing energy into himself once more.

(Fort Save 12 FAIL Power Attack with falchion two handed, 28 to hit on first, 19 slashing+3 fire, 19 to hit on second, 21 slashing +5 fire. Another lay on hands on self for 12 HP. Dex is currently 6)

(OOC: Cmon I have a +9 to my Fort saves but I can't roll above a 2-3 XD)

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:16/49 (POISONED/FATIGUED) d20+8=16 ; d20+8=25 ; d6+4=10 ; d20+11=13 ;
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 3:58:50 PM
Fand reels (Fort:16 fails the save + crit confirmed!) then rolls to her feet snarling. If she can use spring attack to get up and bite: (bite:25 for dmg:10) and then spring clear (without provoking) that's her plan.
(If this isn't possible she has AC:24 Vs attacks of opportunity and attacks with 21 (prone) for same damage).
---

Haemir is honestly bricking it at this point, it takes all his strength to simply raise an eyebrow at Ruby's outburst.
He wracks his brain - 90% of his spells are charm and mind spells and he'd already learnt that insectoids were immune.
(Using Coalesce Spells he locks out detect poison and dancing lights for the day and casts defensively - concentration check:13 phew just).
A ghost like Spectral Hand appears next to him.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:16/49 (POISONED/FATIGUED)
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 4:00:05 PM
Wait it doesn't appear oops. (rolled a 2)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+5=16 ; d4+1=2 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=23 ; d4=4 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=12 ; d4=2 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=19 ;
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 5:11:20 PM
Thorondir decides that since the centipede is too large, he will instead rise up in the air 20 feet and cast Summon Nature's Ally III, summoning 2 eagles to attack the centipede. (probably next round they appear? I will roll their attacks now though just in case.)
Aewen Hit AC 20, 7, 23 Damage Talon 4
Eagle 1 Hit AC 9, 23, 12 Damage Talon 2
Eagle 2 Hit AC 20, 14, 19

Fatigued. -2 Str and -2 Dex, no run or charge
Poison -2 Dex, -3 Dex
Air Elemental form +2 Dex
Dexterity total = 18 -2 Fatigued, -5 Poison, +2 Air Elemental form = 13

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 5:31:49 PM
(Update header for HP, I had done it previously I thought but I was back to full HP)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour 3d4+3=10 ;
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 6:59:51 PM
Sol then rushes upstairs as fast as his fatigued body will carry him, and looking at possible targets. Spotting the two centipedes he unleashes a quick and efficient Magic Missile on them, he focusses all of the missiles on one of the Centipedes (if he can tell which one is more injured that one, if not, whichever is closest to his most vulnerable allies)

10 Damage

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) 3d6=9 ;
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 11:05:48 PM
Herbert rushes to Fand and lays on hands with the Mercy Fatigued "Oh no! You're hurt! Here!

Herbert heals 9 points to Fand and removes Fatigue.

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) d20+8=17 3d6(1+2+2)+7=12 d3=3 d20+12=24 3d6(1+4+6)+7=18 d20+8=18
Tuesday July 13th, 2021 11:55:36 PM

Striving to finish this fight, Rubalad bites and bashes Centipede Two, inflicting 17 damage with the two attacks. He also waves his blade in an attempt to distract the monster.

Rurik, fighting through poison and fatigue, hits once on two swings, with 22 damage by blade and flame. The dwarf is beginning to sway from the effect of the poison!

Haemir's friend Fand attacks with a bite for 10 damage and then springs back below deck. [OOC: In this abstract, mapless combat, everybody is in reach of each other above deck. The only way to get out of reach is to head off the ship or go below deck. I'm giving Fand the benefit of the doubt and letting the creature retreat below deck with a spring attack. Because I am the nice one.]

Haemir himself concentrates and tries a spectral hand, but alas, it does not work.

Thorondir's friend Aewen misses (they are AC21, sorry). CORRECTION: hits for 5.

Thorondir wants to fly up out of the centipedes' reach (move action) and then cast a full round casting time summons. OOPS too much to do in one round. The kindly DM lets him just cast the spell with no move (technically, a five ft step would be ok). Luckily, his whirlwind form is immune to AoOs. His summoned eagles will arrive next round.

Sol arrives on the scene and tries to cast a magic missile. Alas, the centipedes have a 20 ft reach, and as your evil DM has mentioned, everyone on deck is in reach of a centipede. Sol's casting provokes an AoO from cursed Centipede Two. It hits AC17, biting Sol for 12 damage. Also, Sol must make a DC19 Fort save this round, take 3 points of dex damage if you fail. ALSO, make a concentration check vs DC22 to successfully cast the spell through the pain. So I need a concentration check and a fort save from Sol to finish this round, please.

Herbert, below deck with Fand, removes the creature's fatigue and heals it for 9 points of curing.

======

Centipede One is content to go mano-a-mano with the woozy dwarf. It snaps its mandibles, hitting AC24 and piercing Rurik for 18 damage.

Cursed Centipede Two attacks Rubalad, hitting AC18. That misses the small but fierce warrior.

======

POISON STATUS! - please confirm and check in case I have lost track.

By my reckoning, not one poison save has been made this fight. Poisoned folks are Rurik, Thorondir, Fand, and maybe Sol. All four owe me a poison save next round, and please do roll your own 1d3 dex damage if you fail. Note that you do not want your dex to drop to zero, and that this is a good reason to have hoarded hero points. IF you have made a poison save, please bold it so I do not miss it.

=====

Centipede One (fighting Rurik and Thorondir) (AC21) - 32 damage
Centipede Two (fighting Rubalad, Fand, Sol) (AC21) - 50 damage (plus maybe 10 hp magic missile damage) plus cursed -4 on attacks, saves, checks

Edit: Aewen hits Centipede Two for 5 damage, fixed above.

Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+9=20 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+8=17 ; d20+5=13 ;
Wednesday July 14th, 2021 12:57:21 PM
Ruby snarls and attacks, momentarily forgetting all finesse. And that becomes a problem, because the little guy can’t touch the well-armored monster!

Leftover centipede liquid drips from his muzzle as he snarls at the centipede!
…..

Scimitar 20 miss
Scimitar 7 miss
Shield Bash 17 miss
Bite. 13 miss

Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 (17) | CMD 19 | 22/48 HP | d20+11=27 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+12=20 ; 2d4+13=16 ; d6=5 ; 3d6=7 ;
Wednesday July 14th, 2021 3:39:21 PM
Rurik grits his teeth as he continues his back and forth with the giant centipede, steeling himself against it's bite. With a mighty roar he surges forward, continuing to buy time, and safety, for the rest of those in danger.

(Fort Save 27 PASS, Activating power attack. First attack unconfirmed crit, 30 to hit. 21 damage total. Second attack 14, whiff. Swift action to heal myself with my last lay on hands, hoping I won't have to use it on anyone else. 7 points total healed. Move action to detect evil, seeing if the centipede is evil.)

(OOC: Hoping I'm doing all this right this is a lot to keep track of and I'm still pretty new to pf ;-;)

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:16/49 (POISONED - made 1 Sv) d20+8=24 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=17 ; d6+4=5 ; d6+9=12 ; d6+11=16 ;
Wednesday July 14th, 2021 3:47:50 PM
Fand half scrambled - half knocked ends up a bit bedraggled and fuzzy below deck. Everything is spinning slightly.
(Fort:24 - this was her second round of poison, she lost 1 pt the 1st round). - Fand makes her poison save.

Somehow she manages to stay on her feet and then Herbert steps up and heals her. She looks up, shakes her head (probably covering him in some saliva) and grins at him. She has a somewhat disconcerting grin, it's very teethy and she looks like a half dino-dog!? But it's clearly obvious that clout to her and maybe the healing? Woke her up. It's like a light came on in her head.
"Why thank you dearie". Her voice sounds just like a woman's voice, perhaps an elderly, wise, nanny type. "Herbert Bramblerose you really are a true blessing". She turns to leave but looks back and bows her head. Then in a flash she's up the stairs and leaping at Centipede Two.
Using spring attack she can travel 50 ft / round. She bounds up the stairs leaps at the centipede - bites it (Nat '20' = 28, but 17 fails to confirm. For 5 dmg).
She literally springs into and off and back down below deck. (Acrobatics: 12). She's panting and lining herself up again...
---

Haemir (Concentration:16) fails to cast defensively again and reflects on his life's choices as he edges 5 ft towards the steps, cartoon creeping like he's trying not to be noticed...

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+5=8 ; d3=3 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=15 ; d20+3=18 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=4 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=18 ; d4=4 ; d4=3 ; d3=3 ;
Wednesday July 14th, 2021 4:05:11 PM
The eagles come in to the fight.
Aewen hits with a bite hit AC 23 for 4 HP damage
Summoned eagle 1 hit with talon AC 22 for 3 HP damage
Summoned eagle 2 misses

Thorondir casts Summon Nature's Ally II and calls 3 more eagles to come to his aid (next round).

Thorondir Failed Fort Save -3 Dex
Fatigued. -2 Str and -2 Dex, no run or charge
Poison -2 Dex, -3 Dex
Air Elemental form +2 Dex
Dexterity total = 18 -2 Fatigued, -8 Poison, +2 Air Elemental form = 10

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:25/49 (POISONED - made 1 Sv)
Wednesday July 14th, 2021 5:59:50 PM
(Correcting header)

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Thursday July 15th, 2021 12:36:06 AM

[OOC: Once you make one poison save you stop taking damage and are cured.]

Rubalad attacks four times but misses.

Rurik fights off the poison, swings twice as a full round action, and heals himself as a swift action. Detecting evil is a move action -- no time for that this round. He does hit once, a huge blow for 21 damage.

Fand dashes up, bites for 5, and dashes back below deck. Haemir fails to cast defensively, loses a spell slot, and backs away five ft.

Aewen and two summoned eagles attack, inflicting 7 damage to Centipede One. Thorondir casts another summons.

Herbert and Sol hold their attacks.

======

Centipede One rears back with an insectile scream, and backs away, off the boat and down the anchor chain.

Cursed Centipede Two follows.

Both are using the withdraw action.

When you rush to the side to see them, they are both in the grass and out of line of sight.

Combat is over.

Rubalad and Rurik, each please accept a hero point.

======

POISON STATUS! - Who is still poisoned?

=====

Centipede One (fighting Rurik and Thorondir) (AC21) - 60 damage
Centipede Two (fighting Rubalad, Fand, Sol) (AC21) - 55 damage (plus maybe 10 hp magic missile damage) plus cursed -4 on attacks, saves, checks

Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=33 ; d20+15=25 ;
Thursday July 15th, 2021 12:59:10 AM
Rubalad follows his foe, but only to the rail edge; not fool enough to follow a retreating but still fighting foe. He watches closely as they disappear into the overgrown grasses, trying to note if they were wild animals or pets of some villain.

Soon enough, he remembers where he is and what he has done. He wipes his weapons and muzzle, and gargles a mouthful of water before spitting it over the side. Tired, he keeps a lookout in silent watch while the people of the boat sort out the after-battle stuff.

……
Perception 33 to note the centipedes
Perception 25 to keep watch

Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+4=8 ; d20+12=29 ; d20+6=22 ;
Thursday July 15th, 2021 2:12:00 AM
Fort save - failed
Concentration - Passed
Second fort Save - 20! Passed

Sol let's out a howl of pain as the Centipede bites him. However, his spell manages to happen all the same.

He doesn't manage to do anything about the centipedes escaping, focussing instead on trying not to let the poison kill him.

"They have retreated... and now I feel worse than I did before... and I was exhausted..."

Sol wobbles on his feet due to both the poison and his remaining fatigue.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 (17) | CMD 19 | 22/48 HP |
Thursday July 15th, 2021 12:39:08 PM
Rurik leans against the rails, panting heavily as he wipes weat and blood from his brow. Looking back, he notices the bad shape some of the rest of the party is in, particularly Thorondir. Walking over to the still-elemental figure, he says

"I do not have much healing ability left in me today, but I can heal some. I can remove the effects of the poison and your fatigue, since you seem hardest hit. Unfortunately I can only do this once right now."

He looks around at the rest of the group.

"If only I had enough to help them all... He sighs, shaking his head

When Thorondir becomes humanoid again, Rurik casts lesser restoration on him.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:25/49 (POISONED - made 1 Sv) d4=3 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ; 3d8+6=21 ; 3d8+6=20 ;
Thursday July 15th, 2021 3:11:26 PM
"That was amazing! Never seen anything like it"!
Haemir relaxes when the monsters flee, then he grabs Sol and casts Delay Poison (halts all progression for 6 hours giving the party some time to work on it - and/or he can cast it again later giving us till tomorrow).

Then he moves to Rurik as he slumps casting Lesser Restoration (restoring 3 Dex).
(OOC: TBH I am not sure how bad people are poisoned how about)?

Restoration Lesser(1): 3 pts (Rurik)
Restoration Lesser(2): 3 pts (shout who wants)
Restoration Lesser(3): 1 pt (shout who wants)
Restoration Lesser(4): 3 pts (shout who wants - won't use if not needed).

Then follows up with:
Cure Serious: 21 healing (shout who wants).
Cure Serious: 20 healing (shout who wants).

He will sort Fand in the morning.
---

(Haemir Coalesce Spells: 2x 1st level slots to cast a 2nd: Lesser Restoration and then casts 3 naturally. Then casts 2x CSW).

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:25/49
Thursday July 15th, 2021 3:12:34 PM
(correcting header)

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 (17) | CMD 19 | 22/48 HP |
Thursday July 15th, 2021 7:15:49 PM
(OOC I could certainly use the healing, if you don't mind. I'm out for the day.)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=10 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=19 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+3=19 ; d20+3=16 ; d4=1 ; d20+5=18 ; d3=2 ;
Thursday July 15th, 2021 9:48:00 PM
Thorondir settles back to the deck of the Maiden and changes back into his elven self.

Casting speak with animals he speaks to the summoned eagles.
Search for them and attack them if they are found

Perception for the 5 summoned eagles (10, 26, 22, 18, 24)
Attacks if they are found (only 1 hit AC 22 damage 1)

”I could use some healing if you are offering.”

Fort save 18 -2 dex
Fatigued. -2 Str and -2 Dex, no run or charge
Poison -2 Dex, -3 Dex
Air Elemental form +2 Dex
Dexterity total = 18 -2 Fatigued, -10 Poison, = 6

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Thursday July 15th, 2021 11:19:18 PM

[OOC: I'll retcon that extra ten hp magic missile damage, Sol. But please try to post every day!]

Rubalad rushes to the side of the Maiden to see a little rustling at the place the anchor chain enters the grass. Then all is still.

Sol wobbles as the poison hits him, but then he fights it off.

Though sorely wounded, Rurik saves his last healing for Thorondir. Each Lesser Restore takes a while to cast.

Haemir steps up with a metric crap-ton of healing.

Thorondir commands his eagles to attack, but they have no target in line of sight.

As the party heals, do you think you will head into the grass to finish off the centipedes? Or let them go?

Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Friday July 16th, 2021 12:23:55 AM
Rubalad keeps watch and off to himself, but the talk on the roof of the boat pulls him back. ”I noticed in introductions that you have no cleric with you. I’m not magical, but always keep some light cure potions when tracking a quarry, and I still have them since …”

The badger-kin trails off, but does give Rurik and Thorondir each 2 potions of cure light wounds.

That action leads to another, and Ruby then meets the gray elf. “Never seen? So this doesn’t happen every day? Should we find out why you were attacked then? . His nose quivers as if on the scent of a trail. He is willing to put down dangerous animals, but doesn’t know anything about where he has landed and so looks to the team to make the decision.

…..

Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:25/49 d8+1=2 ; d8+1=5 ; d20+16=27 ; d20+16=31 ; d4=4 ; d8+5=7 ; d8+5=9 ; d8+5=9 ; d8+5=10 ;
Friday July 16th, 2021 2:59:58 PM
"Master Rurik rest here if you please"? He mage hands and a small bench over for the dwarf and sets about tending his wounds, as he does he speaks to Ruby:
"Oh I see what you... No. I wasn't amazed by the monsters, although they were terrifying! I was stunned by the bravery and tenacity of both yourself Master Rubalad - and Master Rurik here! The way you both fought was the stuff legends are made of. Oh n' forgive me if I seemed somewhat judgmental regarding your dancing skills earlier, I mean fight like that and people will be dancing to songs about you! Oh n' for the record I wasn't judging your skills" he holds up a hand he wants to say 'it was just the timing' but his healing distracts him, His tongue held between his lips as he concentrates.
"That's what I meant by 'never seen anything like it'"! He shakes in head - colour him impressed!

When Ruby takes out the potions he takes out a wand, "A generous offer but fear ye not I have this one covered".
---

By the time he has finished speaking both Rurik and Thorondir are both fully healed, unfatigued, and recovered from the poison.
He moves over to Sol and heals him and then checks on Ruby again. "Forgive me but you don't seem hurt at all? Incredible". He looks him over and turns him around just to make sure there isn't a fang hanging out of his back and he hasn't noticed. If he discovers a wound he he will heal, otherwise he shakes his head in disbelief and smiles.

Lastly he tends Fand stroking her as he goes. She leans into him. He realises he hasn't answered Ruby's question about hunting it but he waits to see if the eagles had any joy and what everyone says. Personally though he's still tired.
---

The Book-keeping
([i]Rurik: 1x Cure Serious (20), 2x CLW from CLW wand (2+5) requires 2x UMD Vs DC:20 (rolled: 27 & 31) + 2x Lsr Restoration 5 Dex also removes fatigue).
(Thorondir: 1x Cure Serious (21), 3x Lsr Restoration = 9 Dex recovered).
(Sol: 2x CLW (7+9) using 4 cantrips locked out for the day with Coalesce Spells)
(Fand: 2x CLW (7+9) 4 cantrips locked out for the day with Coalesce Spells).

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:44/49
Friday July 16th, 2021 3:04:52 PM
([iOOC: sorry Fand's heals were 9 & 10[/i]).

Later Fand strolls over to Herbert, thigh bumps him and winks conspiratorially.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday July 16th, 2021 4:53:02 PM
”Thanks all for the healing. I feel much better now. We can go after these centipedes if you want, though we are all a bit depleted. I prefer to fight in the grass but unfortunately I think these centipedes do too. I’ll do whatever the group decides.”

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Saturday July 17th, 2021 10:35:38 AM

Rubalad keeps watch and comments on the group's lack of a cleric. Should the party go after the centipedes?

Haemir smiles, compliments his friends, and demonstrates that he has the group's healing needs covered.

Fand, in her way, thanks Herbert for healing.

Thorondir is grateful for healing and unsure about hunting the centipedes.

Looks like it is time to make a decision.

Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+18=28 ;
Saturday July 17th, 2021 4:56:09 PM
Rubalad recovers his potions (he only has two), and quirks his head at Haemir’s plethora of information. The badger-kin isn’t quite sure if he got all that, but the elf seemed to be complimenting him and has many healing magics. ” um… thank you, and I apologize for my outburst. It was not civilized.”. He has to think a minute before continuing.

”I am uninjured, thank you, but we should put those animals down. They will be doubly dangerous for the next travelers because they are hurt.”

Ruby scrambles over the side, and takes a look around at the trail left by the centipedes. “When everyone is restored and recovered, come on down!”

……

Tracking. (Survival). 28

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=26 ; d20+10=30 ;
Saturday July 17th, 2021 7:25:46 PM
”Okay, let’s go get these abominations. I’ll fly above as an eagle with Aewen, if I see them I’ll cast entangle. If I can’t see them from above, someone shout out their location and I’ll cast in that area. Then I’ll summon an earth elemental to help us fight them.”

Perception Thorondir 26
Perception Aewen 30

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday July 19th, 2021 5:47:55 PM
"I would suggest not chasing after them, however I do agree with Ruby, as it I would not want anyone else to suffer a worse fate because we did not do what was required of us."

He follows along waiting for the creatures to be spotted.

"Would any of our new companions like more strength to help them at all?"

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Monday July 19th, 2021 5:48:49 PM
"On second thought I will be an air elemental and cast my spells from above if possible."

When they are ready to go and finished discussing plans, Thorondir will wildshape into an air elemental and follow Ruby from above.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:44/49
Monday July 19th, 2021 6:59:04 PM
Haemir gets out his xbow and loads it. He looks ready.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Monday July 19th, 2021 10:11:20 PM
Herbert draws his shortbow and nocks an arrow, following the rest of the party. "I know those critters tried to munch on us, but there was no malice. And they are hurt...it would be a mercy to put them out of their misery, as well as protecting other passers by from a nasty bite!"

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday July 19th, 2021 10:18:59 PM
Rurik graciously accepts the healing, but only after checking to make sure others were not hurt worse. Lost in thought as he gets his wounds tended by Haemir, he speaks up when the party talks of going after them.

"If we are truly planning on tracking them down, then we need a better plan. What happened in that ambush was...unpleasant to say the least, and if they had pressed on, or one of us been less vigilant, it very nearly could have ended much worse. Perhaps instead of trying to track them down in terrain we are unfamiliar with, we should speak to the locals about these creatures and see if we could set an ambush of our own. Not only would we be ready for them, we could prepare ourselves for the combat before it began. I do not know about the rest of you, but I have several abilities to aide me in the heat of battle, but since it started so suddenly just now I thought it better to focus on the melee."

Sighing as the healing finishes, he stands up and brushes off some of the muck left on his armor from the fight.

"It may not be a bad idea to rest, as well. I doubt those things have the wisdom to set proper plans of their own, or call reinforcements we wouldn't find by tracking them anyway. We are worn and weary not only from the ambush just now but the climbing challenge as well. These plains are not heavily travelled as far as I am aware, so I see little need to rush headlong into a combat while beaten and bloody. I say we follow them to end the threat they pose, yes, but we rest, we plan, and we fight when it is good to."

(HP and Dex are back up to full)

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Monday July 19th, 2021 11:22:23 PM

Rubalad invites his new friends to go a-hunting. He hops down. Since he is only just a little guy after all, the "ground" does not buckle under him, but he feels it give a bit. His tracking indicates that the monsters went down the chain, and then deeper into the grass.

Thorondir declares his intent to fly above with his friend as an elemental and an eagle. [OOC: Note: do whirlwind uses per day stack? Something to think about? Maybe no?] From up there he sees nothing deep in the grasses.

Sol is more cautious, and as Ruby relates that the ground is ... tricky? ... Sold descends cautiously and to the side.

Haemir stands on the deck with his crossbow and watches.

Herbert readies his short bow. Does he descend to the grass or stay on deck?

Rurik still on deck, urges the party not to underestimate these foes. Should the party heal up?

Ruby and Sol are on the "ground" ... Thorondir flying above ... Rurik, Herbert, and Haemir still on the ship.

Please make sure your hp total, conditions, and spells active are all noted!

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 9:00:43 AM
OOC: Kelly, your email is bouncing back. Are you getting the daily DM emails? I just sent one 20 minutes ago.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 10:59:33 AM
OOC: I haven't been able to log into email for a few days, I guess they finally deactivated my work email since I retired. kelly(dot)bringhurst at gmail will work.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 11:27:47 AM
Ruby reports what he has found. "Spongy? I wasn't wandering in the storm but a couple hours, but does your ground often feel like walking on rotten wood? Have to say my expertise is more in cities and tracking humans."

"As it is, it looks like your boat crashed right near the centipede's lair, because there are no tracks on the surface, like they dug into the ground."

"I think we should get back on your boat and sail." Ruby isn't leaving until Sol climbs back up first.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:44/49
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 4:12:43 PM
Haemir breaths a sigh of relief. "I'm still worn out n' I don't have many spells left. Let's not interrupt a den of em eh"?
Slimy.
Yuk.

"Did we even finish the first watch"? He smiles but can't stop himself from yawning.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 4:40:24 PM
Sol nods.

"If you insist... but I suspect you are correct, I have no idea about the ground I am afraid it is definitely not my area of expertise."

He smiles self deprecatingly and then climbs back onto the ship.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 8:09:55 PM
Thorondir returns to the boat and hovers above it as they plan to set sail. Once they are underway he will land and resume his normal form.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 11:44:44 PM
Herbert looks over the edge of the ship, being vigilant in case the scritters climb up the chain again...and thankful that they don't have to be tromping around down there.

He also turns his eyes skywards from time to time. Never know what's going to happen. While moving around on decks, he will have his shortbow at the ready, unless actively doing "sailing" stuff.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:44/49
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 8:07:43 AM
Haemir watches the hovering bird for a while. "Thorondir, are you waiting on something? The Maiden isn't going anywhere with no sargrass under it n' no-one has rested yet"!

Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 8:42:34 AM

It is now early afternoon.

The consensus is that to proceed now would be too dangerous. Is it wise to rest here near the monsters? You get ready to set sail. As you weigh anchor, you note something odd.

In the tumult of the storm you had not noticed. But with Herbert watching the chain, he notes that the anchor takes a while to come up. It tugs up through grasses. Eventually it appears out of the grass. But it is obvious that it had sunk well below the ground level.

Time to leave?

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 12:23:48 PM
Thorondir drops down to the ship and changes back into his elven self.

"We can go whenever you want, I didn't diminish the grasses here. However, something is going on with the ground below us. We may be above a nest. I could explore as an earth elemental if we are keen to know."

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 2:12:00 PM
Ruby scrambles up back on top of the boat and the team there. He listens to Thorondir, but shakes his head. ”I have no right to urge anything, but I think your friends Rurik and Herbert are right. You should move your boat.”

He helps haul the anchor and is ready to get to civilization.

DM Shane.
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 10:29:55 PM
The Grass is silent but for the gently sussursus of the wind, the Centipedes seem to have absconded into the deeper grass. does the party try and pursue or are they ready to get back on the road..er..grass...?

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 3:36:02 AM
Sol thinks

"I do not feel comfortable leaving the creatures to wander and do harm to others, we are seasoned adventurers and we struggled with them, normal small folk would have no chance. We should try to figure out what is going on here. It just depends if our injured party members are able to continue, I am still tired but have quite a reserve of magical power remaining."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:44/49
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 9:24:21 AM
"We've always operated by a majority rules here n' it seems Rurik, Ruby n' Thorondir are ready to go. I'm in no real condition to fight so I'm with them. Let's go before more of em come. We can prestidigitate the grass another colour so we can find This place again. Maybe even tomorrow if that's how you feel Sol? Being realistic when the toughest ones here are suggesting a withdraw"..!I

Haemir notes the grass isn't short here after all. Gads he must be tired.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 1:33:47 PM
"I'm ready to go, does anyone have a way to mark this spot?

Thorondir helps to prepare the ship to move.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 11:50:09 PM
"Away we go then!" says Herbert

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Friday July 23rd, 2021 4:09:07 PM
Rubalad nods, storing away the information of mutual decisions and that Herbert and himself are both considered equals in the decisions. Good to know.

DM Shane.
Friday July 23rd, 2021 5:04:36 PM
you leave the area behind. The clouds that have obscured the sky sink lower seeming to stretch from horizon to horizon and so thick that the sun is obscured totally. The weather like this continues for several days.
on the second day, you see something interesting. There is apparently a variety of grass that is tailor-made for just this sort of occurrence. as you come upon it the stalks have risen to the point that they have penetrated the clouds, several hundred feet above the Sargrass.

on your present course you should pass within a 1/4 mile of one of the stalks with others arrayed around within a few square miles.
since it's probably the tallest living thing anyone has ever seen there is quite a bit of interest in it among the crew.
do you alter course and take a look or keep sailing? it's a minor detour at best.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Friday July 23rd, 2021 11:06:12 PM
Rurik keeps a wary eye on the tall blades of grass, surprised at their height. He hadn't seen anything so tall since he left the mountains, and certainly nothing alive so high. The oddness of it puts him slightly on edge, and he scans the horizon for any unforeseen and unknown dangers.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Saturday July 24th, 2021 2:28:43 AM
"Shall we take a look? I've never seen grass that tall"!

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Saturday July 24th, 2021 3:04:30 AM
Rubalad uses the sunny days of sailing to learn more of these people, their boat, and the land. And to have them get used to him in return.

The badger-kin gives a more complete story: how he is from Amberdale, a town near Plateau City, the capital city of the kingdom of New Elennia. He, his parents, and sibs are Twilight Rangers, urban specialists and thief catchers. The same night he met the Maiden Heroes, he was chasing a quarry in Plateau City near the Star Mages tower, and set off a trap. Suddenly, he was in the dark, in a storm, surrounded by tall grass! He wandered a couple hours until literally bumping into the Maiden and Thorondir’s Spike Growth.

So the very tall Grasses are seen, and Ruby is both amazed at the grass and at the heroes reactions. “So, you are lost too? Why don’t we climb one and see what we can see?”

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Saturday July 24th, 2021 6:48:44 AM
"That's interesting! Image the stories we can tell in town about what we find! I think we should explore it. I'll volunteer to climb, too!" says an eager [Herbert[/b], dancing a little jig of excitement.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Saturday July 24th, 2021 10:40:46 AM
"Of course we need to examine these tall grasses, and see what lies at the top. I think instead of climbing I'll fly with Aewen as an eagle. Haemir, would you like to become a bird and fly with us?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Sunday July 25th, 2021 11:32:00 AM
After listening to Ruby: "Master Rubald of Amberdale, what if I told you there's a way you can pass a message back to your family, boss .. or anyone for that matter"?!
Of his own story he confesses to having been a sailor for over three decades, but it ended when the captain tried to sail the 'hump'! Then after entering the plains he tells how he fell asleep and woke up two months later with grey marble skin, vines for hair and it gets weird when he mentions being in some sort of cocoon/seed?! You probably gather he isn't a surface-drow in any conventional way. He is taking it pretty well though - it seems.

Haemir has a real natural patience about him when it comes to teaching, happy to show things over and over and give generously of his time (to help with sailing or any other skill).

At Thorondir's question he smiles. "Oh fer sure"! But then the smile is replaced by sadness as he looks at Fand.
The Rapke looks back the speaks with a human woman's voice: "Don't worry, I don't miss flying". The elf's face beams "Ah you can talk"... He scratches behind her ear and surveys the tall grass. As he does he watches Herbert's little dance and smiles even more.

As the maiden halts he mutters an incantation spreads his hands - assuming the form of an eagle he takes to the sky, circles once and starts to fly towards the tall-grass.
---

(Beast shape:1 - duration 6 mins).

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Sunday July 25th, 2021 3:00:12 PM
Thorondir wild shapes into an eagle and joins Aewen and Haimer in flying up to explore the tops of the grasses.

Wildshape duration 6 hours

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Monday July 26th, 2021 11:24:27 AM
Rubalad again is unsure of much of the information that Haemir unloads on him, and isn’t even quite sure of where to start. Hump? Cocoon? Sailing?

No, the Tracker fixes on something the elf has said before; something Ruby isn’t comfortable with at all. The badger-kin tries a polite smile with mouth closed. ” Please, don’t call me ‘master’. Just Ruby or Rubalad.”

Ruby will wait until the boat is closer to see if there are handy climbing holds.

DM Shane.
Monday July 26th, 2021 2:31:02 PM
The Maiden heaves to port towards the gigantic stalk of grass. As you get closer several things become apparent. it looks similar to bamboo, but only as a dogwood tree looks similar to a redwood.
within 100 yards or so, you begin to smell water, something some of you never thought you could smell before you came to the Sargrass.

Also, you could almost swear this thing is growing before your eyes. The perspective change as you got closer is screwing up your sense of size but, but you could almost swear it's slightly bigger now than when you first saw it.

Once within 25 yards of the grass you see the water running down channels, quite like the channels in bamboo, but larger and there are multiple channels per segment. Each channel is offset from the other and there seems to be a raised lip around each segment that channels the water to the next segment. They get larger as the segments go down. as does the volume of water that each segment is handling.

The smell of water is wonderful. and the surface of the grass glistens with moisture as the water runs down its surface.

once at the grass, down below you can see that the bottom of the grass has a large channel around it that acts as a sort of trough. it seems like every creature in the area is around the base of this grass, all jostling and fighting for position, struggling to drink from the largess that the grass provides.

Like every watering hole, the predators are around as well. a rake of Rapkeys have taken a large bison-type animal, that you don't have a name for, while its herd continues to drink from the grass. Wildcats some quite striking in coloration have taken their share from the smaller creatures drinking around the grass.
it's a naturalist's dream come true. creatures you've never seen before, come and go from the grass. and with a start, you realize that there are hundreds of these stalks of grass around.

The sargrass teems with life, now unmasked from its daily struggle for survival with the architect of life now flowing so freely and in such volume.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday July 26th, 2021 7:04:35 PM
Sol stands in awe of what he's seeing, then after a few moments of losing himself, grabs his journal and begins writing in it, trying to make as many notes as he can.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Monday July 26th, 2021 11:17:54 PM
"Just look at them all!" Herbert exclaims, pointing his clawed fingers at the marvelous panoply of wildlife before them. "Wouldja look at that!?! That grass is huge! He cranes his neck back, shielding his eyes with a paw. "I wonder if any legendary creatures life up there? Maybe a giant in his castle? Herbert pretends he's a giant, stomping around and 'roaring' in a 'booming' voice.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 12:19:24 AM
Rurik's neck cranes back as he looks up into the sky, peering up to see the tops of the stalks.

"Legendary creatures? Up there? I suppose we're more like to find some sort of gigantic bird than anything else."

He sighs, and looks around at the animals here.

"I'm still new to the plains, I don't really recognize any of these. But I can tell a killer when I see one. I suggest we stay far away from them, unless any of them need to be put down for the good of the settlements. I'm no druid, so I'm a bit out of my element here."

He stomps his foot on a stony outcrop for emphasis.

"So I'll defer to your expertise."

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 4:49:29 AM
Rubalad smiles without teeth at Herbert, but has to nod at Rurik’s assessment. ”Animals are unpredictable, best have as little as possible to do with the dumb beasts.”

For the plethora of water, Ruby isn’t surprised, it’s less than the lake by his home and he doesn’t know enough to realize how strange it is on the Sargrass. So he is more interested in the stalks raised high and the natives reaction.

He waves at the stalks and water. ”How is this unusual or dangerous? And how do we get to the base of a stalk to climb up if surrounded by dangerous animals and water?”. The badger-kin himself has no ideas.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 7:49:20 AM
Fand gives Ruby a sidewards glance at the comment about dumb beasts, and then continues staring at the scene before them.

Unable to believe his eyes, Haemir flies up to see out what's on top, then returns to the group and changes back to his elven form, casting detect magic he maintains concentration.
"I'm not sure what to make of this, incredible! Maybe it's the restorationist druids"? He scratches his head and grins at Herbert stomping around. Then looks to see if there is room to sail through.

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=15 ; d20+10=25 ;
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 9:12:26 AM
Flying up to the top of the stalks hidden in the clouds, Thorondir tries to assess what is happening. It must be condensation from the clouds running down the stalk, but there must be a large area of collecting for this much water to run. He and Aewen look carefully to see if other creatures are on the upper portions of the stalk.

He speaks to Aewen, asking her to tell him of anything she might see.

Perception Thorondir 15
Perception Aewen 25

DM Shane. d100=58 ;
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 8:09:28 PM
Thorondir Arwen and Haemir rise as birds up to the low hangining clouds, and then through them.
up on top the sun still shines and it looks for all the world like snow-covered hills but for the heat. Where the grass penetrates the clouds there is but a single stalk sticking through and it keeps disappearing as the clouds undulate past it. but in the valleys of the clouds streaks of green can be seen near the stalk. it looks like the clouds are covering something more of the grass than meets the eye from above.

but as far as fantastical beasts, the abodes of cloud giants, or mystical lands, there is not a one to be seen. it's is beautiful though.

down on the ship some of the sailors take to replenishing the ship's water stores, and they even produce a bar of soap from somewhere and begin taking a bath of sorts with water from the tree. they have taken a planed off piece of board and are using it to divert some water streaming down one of the gullets or crevices to splash on the deck of the ship. out of respect for Lil', they crew sets up a partition to avoid any impropriety. Donald rounds up Lucas and Padre after their baths and has them start stoning and swabbing the deck, seems now that water is plentiful it's time to get the ship in ship shape and bristol fashion.
with Haemire and Thorondir up in the clouds there is no one to give Rurik any advice on what animals to cull or keep.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 11:05:34 PM
"It sounds wonderful up there! Oh to be able to fly! But I would be a funny bird!" Herbert laughs at himself. "I agree we should stay away from the animals. Never want to get between animals and their food or water." He ponders as he looks at the grass tower... "Would this be of help to the people in the town? There must be a way to help them without harming the nature here." and then he gets quiet, as he is not good with words, hoping that his emotion and tone tells his heart, even if he fumbles the words.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=32 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+5=24 ;
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 1:10:12 AM
Rubalad sees the non-adventurers on the boat doing repair and maintenance things. Strange. Stones? But he keeps his thoughts to himself.

Herbert and Rurik seem to be looking for ways to make good on what the team has found here, and Ruby honestly didn’t think of that at all. ”I’m sharp eyed, but you see further, I’m thinking”, he tells the two Paladins. ”I look at this and only see obstacles, but you see opportunities.”

And saying so, a problem occurs to the Tracker: with everyone occupied, no one is on watch. The badger-kin goes to a likely place on the boat to keep watch and think about what the water and stalks mean.
….

Perception 32
Know Nature 15
Know Geography 24

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=14 ; d20+10=28 ; d20+9=15 ;
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 6:30:42 PM
Thorondir and Aewen fly down towards the streaks of horizontal green they see coming from the stalks into the clouds. Hoping to see how the plant collects water, they fly down and will land on one of the "branches" if possible.

"Tell me Aewen, what do you see?" he asks in the eagle language.

Perception Thorondir 14
Perception Aewen 28
Knowledge nature 15

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 11:16:11 PM
Rurik sits down on the rock, thinking.

"This seems....unnatural. Again I am no expert in either the study of nature, nor the arcane, but is it possible some errant druid or hedge wizard created this place? Or perhaps some strange wandering magic? If so, then it could be...unpredictable."

DM Shane.
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 11:16:53 PM
there may indeed be an opportunity here. but how to take advantage of it? that is the question.

the Birds fly towards the flash of green they see in the clouds and discover that there are branches jutting from the stalk out into the clouds. following one you see that it bifurcates and branches out many times forming almost a mat that seems to be continuously growing. water seems to condense upon the mat and get ferried by some as yet unknown mechanism to the main grass stalk. why it condenses and how it moves are mysteries.

yes, stoning. the stones are abrasive and scrub away dings and scratches in the deck, they also compress the wood fibers and make the surface harder. its' some fairly labor-intensive work but with plenty of water to wash away the dust it's not so bad.

it's hard to overstate the effect the water is having not just among the animals, but among the crew and the party. you feel hydrated, joyous, and relaxed. it's almost festive

only Thomas the Ships pilot and 3rd in line for command that looks a bit concerned..

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 11:49:46 PM
"One day Herbert you will fly"! He moves out of the way of deck swabbing and cleaning. Two wonders in one day. "Definately strange. Dunno what to make of it".

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=27 ; d20+19=29 ;
Thursday July 29th, 2021 12:15:17 AM
Rubalad keeps watch, occasionally looking for Thorondir and his pet bird or observing the crew. That’s how he spots Thomas anyways. The badger-kin hails the human. ”Thomas, I’m not trusting this but I don’t know why. You seem to have something more specific to worry about. What is it?”

While keeping watch, Ruby unwinds his sling and lays in a lead weight. Just in case.

…….

Perception. 27
Sense Motive 29 on Thomas

CDM Jerry [OOC post]
Thursday July 29th, 2021 12:59:15 PM
ATTN Kelly! I sent an email to you this morning and it bounced. It returned saying that the address was not to be found or that it was unable to receive mail. Please email me before your next post and let me know what the issue is sir. :) That will also check that I have the right address for you on our email list.

All players must have a reachable email address, for the obvious reasons. ;)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday July 29th, 2021 6:51:27 PM
Sol watches the merriment, and moves over to Thomas, seeing is uncertainty, and so does not partake of the water.

"What seems to be bothering you?"

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday July 29th, 2021 9:36:15 PM
"I don't know about him, but it seems too nice to me. Everything we have seen out on these plains has been voracious and deadly. for something so....pristine to be here, it strikes me as off."

DM Shane.
Friday July 30th, 2021 1:06:55 AM
Thomas pulls out his Pilots log. and points to some numbers and some notes he has taken.
he has a neat hand. the notes are clear and the numbers are in good order.

We've been under this cloud cover for a while now. I've not been able to take readings. I can keep on latitude but unless I can shoot the stars or see the sun for a day from horizon to horizon, I cannot fix longitude. basically what I'm saying is that I do not know where we are exactly. as things stand right now we could easily miss the next stop by as much as 50 miles. I was thinking that this cloud cover would move on in a day or so. no big deal. but it's been a week now. the longer this keeps on and the more we move the less certain I am of where we are.

with his explanation you notice the missing entries in his log.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Friday July 30th, 2021 2:13:06 PM
Rubalad frowns and thinks. It’s gonna take a while so it’s probably good nothing critical is happening.

Eventually, the badger-kin lifts his head. “So… you are lost, too? And until you can clear the clouds, you won’t be able to learn? And there is a lot of water here, and in my home of Amberdale, there is a lot of water and a lot of fog. Fog like clouds.”

“So, if the animals go crazy like this all over, especially since things seem to be growing, it could really hurt your Grass Sir Plains. So, to save your land and to get not-lost, we need to figure out what is going on and how to stop it. Yes?”

Know Nature (take 20). 25

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Friday July 30th, 2021 6:39:06 PM
Fand walks up to Thomas and Rubalad and sits, her head around Ruby's height, back straight then she pants and flops down. The air is cooler here and there is water everywhere, yet the Rapke appears overheated. When the crew bring any buckets of water near her - she shy's away.

Haemir is putting his goggles on as he approaches Thomas: "By Gargul's beard, why would you hide such a thing Thomas? ... Never mind man, the sun's right there". He points at a specific part of the sky. "There maybe something up there. I can only assume bird form for a few minutes n' it took me most of that to find the weird bit... There's an area above the clouds that may hold the answers" and with that he shares everything he saw in detail.

(Shane does anything ping - 'det magic' here?)

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Friday July 30th, 2021 9:47:50 PM
“I can point you to north, if I do that and we move a distance and do it again it should help you get a bearing.”

Thorondir looks at the animals gathering for the water and to hunt.

“I miss spending time with the creatures of the Sargrass, I may go spend time with them soon.”

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Monday August 2nd, 2021 2:01:11 PM
"Not for too long I hope Thorondir? You'll be missed"!

DM Shane.
Monday August 2nd, 2021 6:23:08 PM
Thomas grimaces.

finding latitude and longitude arent' as easy as merely knowing generally where the sun is. and I've a compass I know which way is north. I have to be able to use my sextant to shoot the sun or the stars and I good idea of what time it is. I've been keeping my hour's glass turned so I know the time but unless I can shoot against the horizon I can't place Longitude. I can point north, but where am I on the north-south line? I can't know that until I can shoot it. and I can't shoot it until the freaking clouds move on. we can wait here or try and sail on but if my guesswork is off even a little bit we will be miles off our course. I wasn't hiding it. Losing a day or so is common when sailing, it's just that this has went on longer than I'm comfortable with and I thought I needed to let someone know.

as far as the Detect Magic is concerned nothing comes out as out of the ordinary.

DM note: Fun fact. Prior to the invention of reliable clocks ships pilots kept a book with notes on every single thing they could garner from a section of ocean, on a daily basis. it also had the information they could get from other pilots who had traveled to route before. they used this information to guesstimate their longitude, it was not uncommon for ships to miss their routes by miles and have to sail back towards their destination.
Pacific islanders (tongans, hawiallans. etc) used what were called Star Maps. they would sail at night mostly and follow a certain start until it dipped below the horizon then another and another until they reached their destination.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday August 2nd, 2021 7:06:00 PM
Rurik frowns. "That makes our situation worse. Unusually bad weather, strange plants, the animals acting oddly.....something's amiss here. And it seems like those plants are at the root of it all."

Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16
Monday August 2nd, 2021 10:37:43 PM
"I'll miss you too Haemir, but you will need to carry on without me I'm afraid."

Thorondir surveys the animals from atop the Maiden. Casting speak with animals, he tells Aewen she is free to follow him or to leave and seek her own kind.

"You know Thomas, being lost only matters if you care where you are. If you don't know where you are going, any path will take you there. I think I will take this path. Farewell all, the Maiden is safely made and crewed, you no longer need me as your escort."

Seeing the wildcats below, he changes into one and leaps from the side of the Maiden to the grasses below.
Seeking the largest one, he casts charm animal on it and introduces himself, asking to travel with them for a while. Looking back at the crew of the ship, he flicks his tail and then takes part in the hunt with the other cats.

OOC: Thanks all, I leave tomorrow for time on the mountain outside of cell range. I'll be gone more than home for a couple of months so I am saying farewell. I had a blast, sorry to leave you all. You need to find yourself another druid!

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Monday August 2nd, 2021 11:26:33 PM
Herbert rushes to the ship's rail, waving his paw furiously...fighting back tears, "G'bye Thorondir! Be well and stay safe! Come back soon!"

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 12:17:25 AM
Rubalad looks at Haemir and Herbert before also waving ”You will be missed. Come back soon!”. The Tracker didn’t know Thorondir long, but he seemed a good sort.

Turning his attention to the clouds and water, Ruby tries to understand. He can barely figure out that clouds equals little chance at finding a town. Rurik’s comment about the strangeness is hurting things firms his resolve. ”If this is so, I think we should form an expedition to see if there is a cause we can fix before moving on. Who is with me?”

Ruby hop over the side to await the others.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 1:49:20 AM
Sol rushes to the side of the ship to see Thorondir go. A sad, dark look on his face.

"I have had so many friends leave... it is always a sad time."

He goes back to Thomas.

"So we do not know where we are, and since the are no true maps of the Sargrass we cannot estimate where we are based on landmarks... how many days are we off course? Is it possible to try to figure out how far off course we maybe? I know little of sailing but I would have thought with some time and effort it would be possible to understand all routes we could have taken..."

He pauses for a moment.

"No that would be useless without something to compare it to. Do you actually need to see the sun all day, or just where it rises and sets? I could prepare fly tomorrow and allow you or myself, or any one else to fly up hopefully above the clouds both at day break and when the sun sets?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+15=20 ;
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 11:51:53 AM
Haemir listens to Thorondir and can only agree about the lost comment, then watches over the edge as the druid approaches the Wildcats and smiles, partially sad, but also happy for the druid who seems to make friends wherever he goes.
"Farewell friend, till we meet again" he says quietly.

He sighs and turns towards Ruby. "What's the plan, not too sure I want to roam around on the ground looking for a clue, with all the beasts wondering around"?
---

(Ref Does it look like something may have been at the top of one stalk in particular?)
(Giving himself a +2 BW 'guide' ability, tries Knowledge Nature: 20)

([i]Ref Does it look like something may have been at the top of one stalk in particular?)

DM Shane. d100=55
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 11:54:51 PM
The wildcats of this place are not solitary hunters like the one you are used to. They hunt in packs, it seems, and with the leader of this pride charmed, Thorondir is immediately accepted as one of the pride.

DM Shane: Farewell and safe travels Kelly, you brought a unique flavor to this group and a strong sword arm as well. You will be missed, but we look forward to having you back one day.

it's one thing to lose a companion through death, but it's another thing to lose one from wanderlust. I suppose it is the nature of druids, but the ship is quiet as you watch the ocelot that is your friend slink off into the grass.

is this tall water-wicking grass unnatural? There is so much strange in the Sargrass, who is to say? one thing is for certain, the water is being put to good use by the creatures of this land.

Thomas seeing someone who is curious about his craft is happy to explain. after he bids his goodbyes to Thorondir.

It's not that I have to see sunrise and sunset, but if I can see sunrise and sunset I can figure time much better than just seeing the sun. See we know when the sun will rise each day, it varies as much as an hour throughout the year. days are shorter in the winter months longer in the summer, but we've had that for so long we know it. I've kept my hourglass, but I know that there is a margin of error that has accumulated over the last week. I can eliminate the majority of that error once I can see the sunrise. the sun will break the horizon at 6:13 tomorrow. with the clouds I cannot be sure of when it does, so I can't eliminate the error. going above the cloud layer gets us closer to the sun, which effectively moves us towards the equator, if I knew how high we were I could account for that, provided we had data for that particular method of shooting the sun. which I don't. .

Thomas looks a little chagrined at that admission, but then cocks his head to the side and looks thoughtful.
You know it does not help us right now, but when the clouds do part and I can fix our position, figuring out that offset could be really useful. If we could figure out how high the clouds were, then we could have the offset ready for the next time this happens. I don't know how useful it will be for other ships unless they have a method of getting folk up above the clouds, but more the more you know the better off you are.

Ruby is on the ground, luckily the Rapkey's seem to be full of bison and arent' looking for any snacks at the moment. Ruby you just took a 15ft fall, roll DC 15 acrobatics check to avoid the first 1d6 points of falling damage and convert the second 1d6 points of falling damage into non-lethal damage. alternately I will allow you to roll a DC17 check against whatever skill you think would work best if you decide to change your mind and grab the side of the boat before you fall 15ft to the ground surrounded by apex predators (dex, acrobatics, slight of hand, climb.)

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=20 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+5=6 ;
Wednesday August 4th, 2021 12:24:16 AM
Rubalad circles the boat, observing the ground and where the rope-things-that-hold-the-boat-still are grounded. He shakes his head, he doesn’t even know if they are weights is hooks! The badger is in such a strange environment, he doesn’t know where to start learning, but maybe the names of boat-things is a good place to start…

……
Perception 20
Know Nature 8
Know Geography. 6

Ooc: hopefully this is getting the low rolls out of my system

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Wednesday August 4th, 2021 8:11:35 AM
Having known Haemir for a while - two flaws become apparent: he's not the most perceptive person and this matches his lack of understanding others as well. He clearly missed Thomas' dilemma and had not picked up on how lost Ruby is (other than geographically).
(OOC he has poor sense motive and perception). So it may take Ruby literally telling him before he adopts another attitude, at present he's oblivious and convinced all is well with the beastfolk. Ruby's superior sense motive would probably reveal this.

"Ok I think Ruby is right but I'm not eager to walk through a forest of beasts n' monsters searching for bread crumbs. We need a clear plan n' place to start. Down there just looks like fight after fight at present"! Haemir is open to suggestions.

(OOC: on the issue of what to do and where to go, may I please draw the refs attention to my questions (ironically duplicated) at the end of my last post. Haemir really doesn't want to walk around in search of clues or fight his way through multiple packs. He is trying to ascertain if one particular stalk looks like a place too start. If necessary he will reconnoitre the stalk again - assuming bird form (for 6 minutes) and using his Remote Viewing (Sp): Clairvoyance at will as SLA: 640' range for 6 rds/day - if landing up top is risky).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday August 4th, 2021 6:55:59 PM
Sol just watches what the rest of the party are doing, and the other sailors.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday August 5th, 2021 12:50:55 AM
Rurik bids Thorondir a solemn farewell, and watches as he leaves with the other wildcats. As Thomas speaks of flying above the clouds, Rurik gets an idea, squinting up at the sky, wondering aloud.

"How much rope do we have on board? From what I've seen, its a not inconsiderable amount. Is it feasible to mark the rope every so often, and carry it up when you fly up to measure the height? If we don't have enough well....."

Rurik gestures to the grass

"We have the means to make more. We could also use the Longstalks themselves, since they pierce the cloud cover. We measure out a specific amount of rope, then fly up it and mark the height every so often, flipping the rope end over end."

He sighs, and gazes wistfully at the ground, longing to be beneath it once more. The vast openness he opened his awareness to when trying to puzzle out a solution to measuring out the height above the clouds has left him feeling distinctly uncomfortable. Dwarves were not meant for such endeavors, not so high off the ground.

DM Shane. d20+5=12 ; d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d100=68 ;
Thursday August 5th, 2021 1:20:40 AM
it very rarely rains in the Sargrass. The Sargrass is a place of strange creatures, mutations and strong evolution. Noting about this seems unnatural, there is nothing about the Super Humongous gargantuan ubrer bamboo that speaks of evil magic, hidden treasure, or anything else nefarious.

at the top of the stalk was a mat of vinelike growths extending form the top of the bamboo that seemed to be catching water and somehow ferrying it to the main trunk. that is all that was up there I am afraid.

Ruby falls the 15' down to the floor of the Sargrass, perhaps thinking that the ground was closer than it seemed he lands hard and takes 5 points of damage.

While the "Maiden" often uses an anchor which looks suspiciously like a grapnel to arrest forward momentum, in this case they tied off to the big bamboo.

The pack of Rapkey still seem content to laze about around the body of the bison that they just had for dinner.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Thursday August 5th, 2021 8:52:12 AM
"I can't see much we can do here other than carry on to Rattledam"?!

Haemir is out of ideas.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby d20+15=27 ; d20+15=20 ;
Thursday August 5th, 2021 10:10:38 AM
Rubalad grumbles to himself. ”Lesson number one”, he chides. Still, he can’t see anything out of the ordinary, not yet knowing what IS ordinary in this land of endless tall grasses.

The Tracker takes his time walking around and under the boat, noting if there are rungs or steps on the curved wooden walls of the boat. ”Uh, need a way to get back on top?”, he calls.

Eventually, he gets back on the boat, and learns what the team has been doing. ”So you have master craftsmen that you are taking to your town? But Thomas can’t get the boat to the town without seeing the sun? Looks like we need to look for the sun then. WhaT direction was the wind coming from for the storm that pushed us off track? So let’s backtrack until we can see where we are?”

…..

Survival 27 (auto success) to know the direction the storm wind was coming from
Survival 20. (Auto success) to know where north is now.

Points to the way back.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d8+5=9 ;
Thursday August 5th, 2021 10:30:04 AM
Hemir lowers the rope ladder and heals Ruby (CLW for 9 points) when the beastfolk is back on board.

"There is one master and an apprentice weaver I believe down below. They tend to keep to themselves, not sure they are overly happy that we outclimbed their team"?
He goes down below to check on them, then if everyone is happy - gives the order to set sail. Between Ruby's excellent directions and his own knowledge of where the sun is - hopefully it's a start.

Haemir makes a point of keeping in touch with Thomas to ascertain what is needed each day and will assist if possible with scouting above the clouds if necessary from here on in.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday August 5th, 2021 6:58:09 PM
Sol nods at Haemir's suggestion.

"Yes I think moving onto Rattledam would be the wisest course. So how can we solve the sun problem? As I said I can offer Fly as an option so that Thomas can see the sun but I'd fear it'd not be long enough."

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday August 5th, 2021 9:24:58 PM
Rurik sighs as the tall folk seem intent on their conversation, ignoring his suggestions while they argue over the problem. He begins gathering all the rope on board the ship that isn't actively being usedand then goes to see the weavers below explaining the problem to them.

"I think if we could have a rope long enough, we might be able to see how high up the clouds are. I doubt that we have enough though, but it seems the tools to fix this are easily at our disposal. You have great skill in weaving, and we are surrounded by plenty of material for ropes. Would you be able to make rope long enough, with the benefit of what we have now? If not, then I am willing to listen to suggestions, especially given your expertise."

Rurik looks back up at the stalk.

"But that still may not be long enough....I wonder how sturdy those stalks are. If they're stiff enough we may be able to make platforms part of the way up."

(OOC: Are you guys able to see my posts? Just making sure I'm not getting technical issues)

DM Shane.
Friday August 6th, 2021 2:59:36 AM
OOC: you are coming in good.
There is no consensus. Part want to head out where they think their destination is. Others want to try the puzzle of the clouds. You probably have 2000 ft of rope all told on this boat, if you raid the rigging. But Thomas has a better idea. if we can measure a known distance away from the bamboo, I can shoot the angle from the ship to the top of the plant take the Tangent and we got it.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby d20+15=31 ;
Friday August 6th, 2021 3:44:04 AM
Rubalad thanks Haemir for the healing. He is just confused at Thomas’ suggestion, but goes to inform Rurik that there seems to be a method to get the size without using all the rope.

The little badger-kin keeps watch on the anchor ropes to ensure nothing is crawling up, and on the horizon to ensure nothing too big is coming that could disturb the deliberations.
……

Perception. 31

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+8=23 ;
Friday August 6th, 2021 10:05:13 AM
Haemir will assist in whatever plan is adopted and when ready help set sail.
Fand watches - looking the other directions to Ruby (Perception: 23).

"A truly amazing site this has turned out to be n' amazing to see"

DM Shane.
Sunday August 8th, 2021 10:37:45 PM
Soh Cah Toa!

The maiden pulls off, using knotted rope they get about 5000 ft from the Bamboo, Thomas shoots the angle with the Sextant he keeps in a padded box in the captain's quarters. he writes the angle down, does some math, and gets that the bamboo is 6000ft to where it hits the clouds.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Monday August 9th, 2021 9:33:08 AM
Haemir isn't really sure how the height of the clouds will tell them where they are but he accepts his ignorance and chips in. He's looking forward to getting back "on the road" so to speak.

He also offers his services to the crew - should any of them wish to converse with family via dreamwalking. It has been a while...

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby
Monday August 9th, 2021 12:33:29 PM
Rubalad considers the height of the bamboo. ”Maybe no use for us, but if you are still learning about this… Sargrass Plains… every bit of knowledge helps to draw a picture of your quarry.”

The badger-kin looks forward to moving and learning where this boat and these heroes come from!

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Monday August 9th, 2021 6:12:27 PM
Sol thinks for a moment.

"Could we not just fly up to the top with a rope and figure out that length of the rope from that? That would give you the distance from the ship to the top of the bamboo?"

If this would work, Sol will cast fly on someone if they need it.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday August 9th, 2021 8:23:39 PM
Rurik shakes his head at Haemir's words.

"I have no living family that I wish to speak with again. If are no more issues with this, then let us be off when we can."

Rurik retreats back to his area and falls into his meditation, annoyed, but trying not to show it.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Monday August 9th, 2021 10:30:40 PM
"Are we ready to go back to New Rattledam with the weavers and help them build the dome?" Herbert says, interlacing his stubby fingers to mimic the protective structure.

DM Shane.
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 12:40:02 AM
with all your business done at the Big Bamboo, the Ship heads off.

Many are unsure how the information can help with navigation but Thomas seems to think that it may come in handy, only once the clouds have moved on, as without a "frame of reference" he cannot accurately fix Longitude.

The Maiden of the Plains sails on.

The gray clouds make navigation difficult but at the same time offer a break from the oppressive sun of the Sargrass.

From the last calculations, you were 2 days out of New Rattledam.

The clouds dissipate 3 days later and after some figuring Thomas figures, you have drifted North East quite a bit.
This is unwelcome, as the wind is out of the South West, which means that you will have to "tack" into the wind by sailing at angles to the wind, the only way to sail against the wind.

Having to do so makes the ship "lean" away from the wind as it sails.

The deck is constantly tilted to a 15 to 20° angle. footing is treacherous, eating a meal at a table is impossible and sleeping...well...now you know why sailors sleep in hammoks.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 4:54:47 AM
In the first few days of The Maiden the rail around the edge was put to good use - small.lengths of rope were attached and could be tied around a waist or held on to for such conditions. Haemir reminds people .. Better not to fall over board here and it's not like there wasn't enough rope.

Haemir seems quiet and reflective on the journey. At night he listens to the grass, during the day he helps the crew and occasionally practices on his violin.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 9:03:44 AM
Rubalad is on unfamiliar ground, despite the boat being ‘urban terrain’. He starts the process to learn more about his immediate (the Maiden) and larger (the Sargrass) environment.

He has heard the Sargrass is usually really hot, really dry, and an endless sea of grasses of all types. It takes experiencing it to get those basics down into his marrow. He also begins learning things about the boat, starting with that it is actually a ‘ship’. Ruby shrugs, one name is as good as another to the badger-kin. He also learns what is a ‘mast’ and ‘deck’. And the reasons for hammocks.

Naturally agile, Ruby has little trouble with a 20 degree slopes deck, and continues to learn from the non-hero crew.

…..

Acrobatics. Min 6. Less <45 slope more than 3’ across, slightly unsteady like a boat in rough seas = DC 4

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 11:18:35 PM
Herbert does his best to stay stable on the rough ride, trying not to lose his lunch, envious of Ruby's agility.

heading home

Sargrass and Diplomats

Background

Return to Stone Temple

Negotiations

A Needed Diversion to the Manfri

An Unexpected Attack

an encounter in the grass

The Charter

Away on a sea of Green.

Zaran City

The Saga of the Dead Gnome

Return to Rattledam

Climber Village

heading home

The Saga of the Dead Gnome

Return to Rattledam

Climber Village

heading home

DM Shane.
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 12:57:57 AM
it takes a while. but you've all gotten your sea...sorry...grass legs by the end of it. The maiden passes by the closest shot to New Rattledam in order to head straight for it on the SW wind. it took the better part of 4 days to get here, but you see the hovels, tents, and a few new buildings on the horizon. There is even a small "dock" put up at the edge of the cleared area for you to tether to and to give you a place to get down to ground level.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 2:57:45 AM
Glad to be home Haemir suggests taking the guests to the council and showing them around.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 4:28:44 AM
Sol nods at Haemir's suggestions.

"Yes I think that would be wise, we can go and let them meet, then once our duty is discharged we can get some food that is not going to slip off the plate."

He smirks slightly, speaking affectionately, if jovially.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 9:08:32 AM
Rubalad continues to learn, ”Ah, so a ‘dock’ is a hitching post for a ‘ship’? Good to know!”

The small badger-kin doesn’t know the Rattledam skyline, but any scene of urban works makes him very excited. ”for a while, I imagined there was no place in this Sargrass that would look at all familiar. And you know the leaders of the place? That’s good. Do you know if they need anyone hunted down? That was my specialty in Plateau City.”

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 7:41:23 PM
Rurik agrees with Haemir and Sol, nodding.

"Before we rest we must see our task done. We have brought the weavers, yes, but we must ensure they are properly acquainted with the town and the leadership thereof."

At Rubalad's question Rurik shakes his head.

"Not that I am aware of. As far as I understand it, this area is fairly isolated. The rest have more knowledge of this place than I do, however, and we can always ask the leadership ourselves."

DM Shane.
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 10:16:50 PM
There are no dockworkers and no one is around when you pull up. but a small delegation is coming from the town as it is noticed that you arrived. they make it to you by the time you have finished tying off. You see Freakshow and needle in amongst several members of the New Ratteldam counsel and about a dozen or some manual laborers come to help unload any provisions or trade goods from the ship.

The Master Weaver (whose name is Thorix Wundleson) and his apprentice (Bodile Wundleson) are greeted warmly by the delegation. Needle is included in the mix, it suddenly seems that folk is taking him a bit more seriously now.
Freakshow smiles at the group. he and one of the council members, Janessa Whiteridge both greet you.
Freakshow asks. Did you have a bit of trouble? we were expecting you several days ago. come on in to the town. we'll have a cool drink in the shade and talk about it.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 11:38:15 PM
Herbert smiles warmly at the group; he tries to get a sense of the reception from the townspeople. Are the lack of dockworkers or other people around unusual?

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Thursday August 12th, 2021 4:54:58 AM
Haemir is happy to show Ruby around and introduce people. He also talks with Thorix about a subject close to his heart - weaving.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday August 12th, 2021 4:04:05 PM
Thank you, the drink and shade are much appreciated. The only real trouble we had was navigation, with the cloud cover recently we lost our way. We came across an odd area, with gigantic stalks of grass that pierced the heavens and a pool of water, and a great congregation of beasts. We also were waylaid by some great scorpions, although we fended them off into the wilderness, and so lost little time due to it.

Rurik gives Needle a smile and a nod as the group moves to the shade, graciously accepting a drink if offered.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby
Thursday August 12th, 2021 5:38:32 PM
Rubalad returns the greeting of the Rattledam council, trying to do and say what they do. After Rurik accepts , Ruby nods. ”thank you, the drink and shade are much appreciated.”

“I am Rubalad of Amberdale, and I greet you as an equal in the Wold.”

When asked, he will again tell his story of tracking a criminal in Plateau City, accidentally activating a magic trap, and finding himself lost in a Sargrass storm until stumbling into the Maiden and the team.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Thursday August 12th, 2021 5:41:55 PM
Sol takes a deep breath and nods at the offer of shade and a cool drink.

"Yes that would be very much appreciated... what have we missed? We were late because of some cloud cover preventing us from fixing our location."

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Thursday August 12th, 2021 11:51:14 PM
"Yes, thank you very much for your courteous hospitality; it is very much appreciated."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Friday August 13th, 2021 12:33:49 PM
([i]OOC SOrry guys I am going to be away for about 8 days... ish. I will try to post asa and when but bare with me I will be away from peeps & tinterweb

DM Shane.
Friday August 13th, 2021 5:24:53 PM
Standing on the ground after days of tacking into the wind is odd. You keep feeling like you are standing on the side of a hill, and turning to face someone it feels almost as if you are going to fall over!

It's not enough to cause injury or clumsiness, just an odd feeling from being suck on a ship for days on end. The feeling slowly lessens as you make your way back to the city.

you also notice that near the floor it seems a bit warmer than up on top of the grass,

HaemirThorix and Bodile are happy to speak about weaving and knotwork in general. True Craftsmen and Artists that they are, they are also geeks for their profession, and willing to teach, learn or discuss anytime they get the chance.

Herbert it seems everyone knows your group. a delegation came out to meet you, and everyone seems keen to visit.

Elijah Freakshow is happy to tell you. well, A caravan has come to town! we stopped work on the dome, it was decided that if you couldn't find a weaver we would wait because it was going to block the evening breeze for no good effect.
[b]Torix chimes in. Good call, knowing that you want to allow the breeze through I can put louvers in you can open up to catch the breeze.

Most of the Council members take their leave once you are back in town and past the guards. but Freakshow and Janessa take you to a grass hut that it a bit nicer than the rest. The rattan furniture is comfortable and the door is positioned to allow the breeze through. Indeed the hut is only partially roofed, it's more of an Al Fresco than an actual bar. it has the advantage of being a bit cooler than the rest o the area.

[b]Donald and the rest of the crew take their leave from you as well. There is a bar more to their liking, across town. That's where you'll find us if you need us.

once you get settled with a glass of Chorle beer, Chorle bread and a nice bowl of Praire hen stew, to start. followed by a roasted hen with Chorle root, and a herb that tastes like rosemary, but just a bit sweeter.

DM note: this is a new town. new folks new traditions, new ways. some folk eat and talk, some folk only talk before and after meals. You feel you have the ability to influence that particular custom at this moment. but you have to reach a consensus for it to happen. vote down below and if it's unanimous, I'll update the wiki with it.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Friday August 13th, 2021 11:53:48 PM
Herbert revels in openness and having meals at communal style tables with much talking, sharing stories and singing. He also shares stories of the foods he was raised with, and is excited to try new and different food and drink.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Saturday August 14th, 2021 10:02:42 AM
Rubalad gathers a platter of greens, some bread, and a large mug of fresh water. He adds a small bowl of hen stew and a chortle beer for politeness, but doesn’t do more than occasional tastes. He also acquires a hot plate to put a small fire and brings out of his pack accoutrements to prepare tea.

He too finds the open, communal style to his liking, but for other reasons than Herbert. He finds a half-filled table and sits, making introductions and observations of both where the Maiden Voyagers have done and seen, as well as inquiring about their lives and livelihood as well. If asked, he shares his preparation and tasting of the blackberry tea. In all respects, the badger-kin simply acts like any other of the Noble Races, and expects the same acknowledgement.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour
Sunday August 15th, 2021 4:04:36 AM
Sol enjoys having a meal and tries a little bit of everything, the smile that's never far from his past seemingly permanently plastered on for now.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Sunday August 15th, 2021 10:07:38 AM
As the crew makes its way from the Maiden (with the council still present) Haemir suggests: "I think it's time we invite the Star Mages Guild n' of course any others willing to come. I mention them because we have a member here already" He gestures towards Sol. "and once they are here Sol will be able to travel anywhere his guild is for free, which will make importing easier. Also those with coin will be able to do the same. People will be able to visit family or even bring family. I think it is a logical step to pursue". Of course he is only suggesting, the council will make their own decisions.
"I have a contact in Zaran City that I can communicate with, I could have them write a letter and present it to the elderly gnome, Zalatsar, whom I believe who is the Zaran representative of the guild. The letter could be there today and with luck we could have a reply - or at least have opened up communication by tomorrow maybe"?

He'd offered to teach, guide, dreamwalk and much more so leaves the party to themselves and at the inn Thorix and Bodile have his attention. Haemir is not even aware that the group is being watched to see how and when to speak.. It doesn't even factor that they would look to the party for such matters since they hadn't been in the town long. He eats and chats (so I guess his vote is just talk and eat) with Thorix and Bodile discussing how different cultures had different styles of threads and weaving. He was starting to see how the different weaves told you about the weaver themselves, not just the purpose. You could achieve your goal with many different weaves, to him it felt like poetry.

Fand walks silently next to Sol. Her gaze keeps drifting to the wizard with a curious expression.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday August 16th, 2021 11:00:10 PM
Rurik chats amiably with the people seated near him, about whatever topics are brought up. He doesn't venture forth any new topics of conversation, and keen to the eyes of others around him, alternates between talking and eating, never speaking with utensil in hand but not shying away from conversation at the table.

When Haemir brings up the Star Mages guild, however, Rurik speaks up as well.

"I'm not sure if we should be so quick to invite guilds to the area, I would not see this another work town under some rich merchant's fat thumb, in the pocket of another guildhall. I suggest we find some way to increase the military ability of the town, so that they have a means of defending themselves against both threats from the plains and any nefarious activity in town. No offence to the watch, of course, but I think given the circumstance something more substantial is required. We saw some rather large beasts out there, and I cannot imagine what would happen if a great number of them swept through the area, much less a coordinated attack from a more intelligent enemy. There will be time to build trade networks after the town is secured."

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Monday August 16th, 2021 11:37:37 PM
Ruby enjoys making a pot of good blackberry tea. A nice little fire to heat the water; the proper amount of blackberry leaf, root, and berry; the steeping; the straining; and… the enjoyment with others.

DM Shane.
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 2:38:17 AM
Haemir Has big plans. but it takes big plans to turn a village into a city. it gives the council woman something to think about at any rate. she asks do you really think it will be that easy?
one of the servers notices that Ruby seems to tend toward the vegetables and asks if he would prefer a salad instead?

The Wundlesons, show a few rope tricks while waiting for the food to come out.

the party has a really nice dinner and Freakshow mentions that you ought to check out the caravan tomorrow.
He asks if you are going to stay in town or go back to your ship for the night?
He notifies the Weavers that they have a place to stay, the town built them a hut to stay in while they are here.

The evening grows late, the beer flowed freely and folk start to yawn.

Dan as Haemir (Subbing for Rich)
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 6:05:17 PM
Haemir chats with the weaver people, hanging out with them and just talking about the various benefits of different weaves and different materials and such, apparently getting lost in the conversation quite quickly and easily.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: N/A
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 6:05:29 PM
Sol smiles at the rapke, a slightly confused look coming across his face as the cat-thing looks at him. He reaches out slowly, and pats it behind the ears, but then goes back to his meal.

Well... she's a lot uglier than she was, but she's still Fand, Haemir's friend, so she's a friend of mine.

Other than he eats well, enjoys himself and makes the odd intelligent comment, but also ensures he avoids drinking too much.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 11:25:24 PM
Rubalad accepts the salad and also accepts the hut for the night. ”Not against the very nice… ship… but the Maiden is not what I would call a permanent residence. I’ll unroll my bedding here quite nicely.”

The little badger-kin is soon soundly asleep.

In the morning, Ruby is ready for the caravan, whatever that is!

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 11:27:08 PM
"If there are available accommodations in town, I would be more than happy to partake of your hospitality"

Rurik chuckles.

"I have seen enough of the innards of that ship to last me a lifetime already"

DM Shane.
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 12:40:18 AM
The city Council is happy to oblige with places to stay, As with most other buildings in the area they are grass huts, but they are nicely done grass huts. enough for everyone to have their own if they wish, but big enough for 3 or 4 to sleep comfortably in. They use hammocks here as on the boat. For heat like this it's better if the night air can circulate under where you are sleeping, the better to cool you. You are more than welcome to sleep on the floor if you wish though.

The discussion on getting the guild here takes a turn, Janessa sees the logic in Rurick's rebuttal.

The night passes uneventfully. and the morning comes like a blast furnace, making it impossible to sleep in very late.

what do the party do with the day ahead?

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 12:34:25 PM
Rubalad is getting used to sleeping in a hammock, but has to adjust on to better fit his smaller size. After several weeks in the Sargrass, he is thankful that he has nearly stopped shedding his inner fur: it only takes a half hour of brushing to deal with his fluff! He apologizes to Rurik and any others who were sharing the grass hut. ”I think I only have my outer coat, much cooler and protective against sunburn.”, he comments.

Ruby will come out with just pantaloons and weapons, leaving his armor and other gear in the hut. Looking for Haemir, Herbert, Sol, and Rurik. He will accompany them on thier visits, and will ensure the walk includes a path around the caravan traders.
….
Unarmored

Dan as Haemir (Subbing for Rich)
Thursday August 19th, 2021 2:00:05 AM
Haemir spends some time with the weavers again, learning how to weave his own home, and doing so. Nothing if not self reliant eh? He also spends time with the caravans speaking to them and hearing their stories.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: N/A
Thursday August 19th, 2021 2:01:28 AM
Sol spends the day trying to establish contact with other Star Mages, as per Haemir's very good suggestion, writing letters or just trying to see out other potentials in New Rattledam to see if a member may have made their way here, or if Sol will have to figure out how to found a Chapter house all by himself...

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday August 19th, 2021 2:45:58 PM
Rurik spends the day sparring with various militiamen and members of the watch, and otherwise mastering his skills.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Thursday August 19th, 2021 7:53:52 PM
Rubalad ensures the community can see and know the small beast-folk is just as intelligent and deserving of respect as any other intelligent race.

DM Shane.
Friday August 20th, 2021 12:48:23 AM
the party makes themselves useful and works on skills this day.

Haemir follows the weavers around and gets some pretty neat pointers on how to weave, enough for a house? maybe not yet, but with some persistent study you think it might be fairly easy.

Sol is on a quest to found a Star Mages guild, the City council is down with that, but they know of no Star Mages present in New Rattledam. You can write letters but since the Maiden is going to be the one carrying them...it's kind of wasted effort...but you do you.

Rurik, finds that while there are some city guards, it's a rotating position with all members of New Rattledam having to take a turn or in some way support the city guard effort. it's a new community in the wild, the thought is to have everyone proficient with arms should trouble arise. it's easy to find a sparring match, but you are underwhelmed with the quality of "guard" that you sparred with. To be fair, she runs a sewing shop and only does this once a month. she's game though, what she lakes in skill she makes up for in spirit. Her partner is one of the dockhands who unloaded the boat. he's not much better, he holds a spear as a pitchfork and has no idea of any other strike with it besides "thrust" . They are both aware of their lack of martial prowess, but look at their job as more to ring the alarm and keep folk honest rather than brawl.

[b]Ruby[b]. you face quite a bit of discrimination. small, furry and cute as you are, folk want to pet you and are enchanted by you when you talk. ladies especially. you haven't had to buy a meal yet. because someone always has the tab, and kids follow you around like dogs. it is discriminatory, but kind of in reverse. they have never seen a badgerkin before and you are new and unique. maybe it will die down in a few days.

You find that most folks are at the caravan, trading and buying goods. you hear a crier from the caravan extolling folk to come to the Chautauqua tonight to learn things and get news of the world. it's scheduled for late in the evening at sundown. folk are urged to bring a dish, drinks will be served. Attendance is free but donations are appreciated and all proceeds go to the Church of Serenbeth, the patron of families.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: N/A
Saturday August 21st, 2021 2:05:35 AM
Sol intends to go to the Chautauqua, however he is not a good cook nor does he have any drinks he can bring, so he goes to find a few decent drinks he can bring, and also tries to figure out what sort of donation would be acceptable, and donates a few coins more than would be considered a modest sum.

He does, however, listen with rapt attention to all the news, writing down anything and everything of import to refer to later.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Saturday August 21st, 2021 11:25:03 AM
Rubalad isn’t very tolerant of the larger races trying to make him a pet. ”Beastfolk are equal, my mind is the same as you.” “How would you like it if I pet and made baby noises at you?” Stop it!”. Each time, the badger-kin gets a little more short, until he all but growls the last retort.

Ruby is in a foul mood. He refuses to let anyone pay for him, even leaving money on the plate if not accepted any other way.

Soon, he finds himself over in the Guard training area with Rurik, seeking to work out his frustrations on the pells.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Sunday August 22nd, 2021 5:31:19 AM
Haemir takes the letter that Sol wrote back to his room. (Coven 1 - members of a coven can commune with other coven members on the same plane once per day for up to one hour through a cauldron). He activates it and speaks with Galdysa Fizzlestitch (the gnome he recruited in Zaran city). He reads out the letter and asks her to write it her end and deliver it to Zalatsar (another gnome and the Star Mages Guild rep there). He advises he will contact her tomorrow for feedback and chats with her a while.

People had been coming to New Rattledam in droves, after all when Haemir left here three years ago there was about 30 people now it's in the hundreds. They had made their own way here despite being advised it was dangerous and despite being warned away by the Sentinels. People would come if they wanted anyway. The Star Guild could send them home or bring fresh weapons, guards, food, resources... It made no sense not to instigate it. The infrastructure needed support.

Later he attends the Chautauqua (donating some coins and bringing drinks he purchased in Zaran).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: N/A
Sunday August 22nd, 2021 5:25:27 PM
At the Chautauqua he spends time with Haemir, and Fand.

"I remember when Fand was some sort of exotic bird... how odd that she went through the transformation with you... it would be very interesting to find out what exactly was powerful enough to have altered you both. Or if the transformation somehow crossed along the bond that you and Fand share... so many questions..."

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 12:24:12 AM
Rubalad manages to keep his temper, barely, and remembers that growling or showing his teeth to others is not done in polite company. He doesn’t want to make a scene, after all, only be treated like what he is: a fellow Noble Race.

When he works against pells, he tries to demonstrate his powerful cuts. With an opponent, he practices his defensive techniques.

DM Shane.
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 2:47:42 AM
ah...Chautauqua the TED talk of the ancient world. there is news first.
A new fledgling town is making a go of it to the west. last they were there it seems to be doing well and they have finally gotten past subsistence and now have goods to trade.

the rain and cloudy conditions have resulted in a 30% decrease in Rapkey attacks in the last month.

A group of brigands has been attacking traders, they attacked the Caravan but were killed to a man.

next comes the talk. first, there is an invocation by a priest of Serenbeth. it takes about 10 minutes. the priest is a good orator, and you kind of wish he would have spoken a bit more.

next up is the speaker for the night. Hubert P. Stumwhistle. A naturalist here to talk about the bounty of the Sargrass. strange fellow. at least 7 ft tall and probably the most massively built man you have yet to see. Perhaps he has some hill giant or Orc in his ancestry. Large hands, but he puts a pair of delicate gold spectacles on before reading from some prepared notes he has made.
he talks of Chorly, and all the other grasses you know about. Purple, glass, Steel as well as others that are rarer. Hemp, for strong ropes. sugarcane that can be found around some of the more permanent water bodies. there is also a small flowering bush that puts out a tuft ball that can be carded and spun to make thread and fabric, like cotton, but the threads are much longer than regular cotton, so it has great commercial value, so far he has not been able to cultivate it. tests are ongoing though.
He has only been able to explore the plains for a year or two, but he feels that its bounty can benefit all.

his presentation is well recieved, it' give folk hope that then have potiental in this sea of grass.

Heamir gets in touch with his recruit and gets a message sent. she tells you she should get a reply back in a couple of days.

Ruby works his frustrations out sparring with the guard. from them at least you earn a measure of respect.

Sol spends time with his friends at the Chautauqua.

The family-style feed is pretty darned good. and not a dish is skipped by the patrons. no leftovers from this feed that's for sure. except for the green gelatinous thing with white flecks in it.. nobody touchs it.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 12:53:22 PM
Rubalad is interested to know more about the town where he has landed, and asks many questions. Why is it called Chautauqua? Are there only two towns in the whole Sargrass? What is a Rapkey and how dangerous are they?

The badger-kin tries to demonstrate his more civilized skills by brewing tea outside his shared grass hut each evening, taking the time to explain the process, the tools, and the leaves used. He supposes that soon he will need to know Sargrass herbalism for more native teas.

Ruby also approaches Haemir. ”You once offered to cast a spell where I could send messages to my family through their dreams. How does that work? Can they answer back? How do they know it is a real message?”. The Tracker would like to accept the offer,

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 4:45:15 PM
Rurik listens with interest to the presentations, particularly the talk of bandit attacks, and other such martial matters. He has little to add to this particular meeting in terms of ideas or suggestions, but it certainly gives him many things to mull over.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 5:15:03 PM
Haemir enquires about the new fledgling town and grits his teeth at the news of the caravan and discusses with Stumwhistle the joys of botany and exchanges knowledge. He's in his element!

To Ruby he says: "I bet there are wanted brigands" ... He lets the thought stew and answers the question.
"I'm a dreamweaver, It works like this. I place you into a trance, it's like a relaxing sleep, if the person you want to speak with is asleep then it starts immediately, if not we wait a while... Then I weave your threads together and you appear in their dream, but sorry they can't reply. Usually it's like they half wake up, maybe they realise it's not a dream anymore and they just listen. In the morning they remember everything you said. So you can let someone know you're safe n' tell 'em where you are. Ask for help or whatever you wish. Your time with them can be completely private". He realised "here" wasn't much help but explains "Simply let me know if n' when you're ready for a dreamwalk, I will be honoured to be your guide for once".

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 5:18:54 PM
He adds as an afterthought "Or if course I can always deliver a message for you if you ever prefer not to" . He shrugs.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: N/A
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 7:25:11 PM
Sol enjoys the talks, and sees if he can catch up with Mr Stumwhistle afterwards to see what he's attempted to cultivate the different grasses where he's attempted it, and Sol makes notes in his diary, as he often does. He writes down everything Stumwhistle shares, and a few notes on theories of his own as to why it's not working. Not that he has any skill in that mind, but he's generally a decent problem solver.

DM Cayzle - The Sage Speaks
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 11:38:49 PM

Rubalad has questions: Why is it called Chautauqua? Are there only two towns in the whole Sargrass? What is a Rapkey and how dangerous are they? He brews tea and has a question for Haemir.

The hall is named after a legendary institute of learning. As for the villages and towns of the new Sargrass, who can say how many have popped up, or where? But of course, in addition to New Rattledam, you know that both Climbers and Manfri have communities. You might expect beastfolk to have the same, though you have not yet found any. And now this new village.

[OOC: Of course Ruby has met Thorondir and his animal companions, one of which was a small rapke. Your kindly DM assumes you recall that.]

Rurik mulls the presentations over. No questions at the moment.

Haemir also asks about the new new town and interacts regarding his passion for plants. He answers Ruby.

Sol joins Haemir talking with Stumwhistle in a floral discussion.

The sage of sage (and other herbs) has a lot more to say, though he did not expect others to be all that interested. "I had kept my talk short because usually folks start to nod off or leave after ten minutes."

Stumwhistle says that the unusual water pattern has seen a lot of unusual plants growing here.

"I've seen jariola bushes, elanor, uilos, and even aliantha, commonly called treasure-berries."

The obsessed naturalist is glad to engage you all, and invites you to his residence for more conversation.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 11:50:55 AM
Haemir will gladly dicsuss with Stumwhistle for as long as they can both handle it... He breaks out the wine.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+7=17 ;
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 4:38:52 PM
Rubalad does recall the weird pet of Thorondir, but hadn’t recalled what they were called; he doesn’t have much use for dumb animals.

The badger-kin will accept a dream walk to tell his family he is OK at the next opportunity.

Ruby glances at Rurik as Haemir and Sturmwhistle go talking plants with real humor in his eyes. ”That may take a while. There may be a bounty on bandits, or some other information. Would you like to come with me to look things over, Rurik?”

He roams about New Rattledam looking for more information.

……

Know Local. 17. (+4 if the information is about a human)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: N/A
Thursday August 26th, 2021 1:51:23 AM
Sol spends the time with Haemir and Stumwhistle.

"Come find us if there are any developments that you might need help with Ruby. It may be useful to know how to cultivate the grasses, or how to safely stop them growing if needs be."

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Thursday August 26th, 2021 11:43:23 AM
Haemir talks green stuff (grasses and all the wonderful things that can be done with them).
After he approaches Ruby and offers to help him dreamwalk.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Thursday August 26th, 2021 3:30:28 PM
Ruby nods. ” I want to see my pa and ma. Tell them I’m OK, that I landed on my feet.”

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday August 26th, 2021 11:37:21 PM
When ruby brings up the idea of looking into bandit raids, Rurik happily accepts. Excusing himself from the rest of the company, he exits the meeting with Ruby, or at the very least retreats to a less focal area to see if any people of note who may have relevant information are also tuning out the lectures.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday August 26th, 2021 11:37:45 PM
When ruby brings up the idea of looking into bandit raids, Rurik happily accepts. Excusing himself from the rest of the company, he exits the meeting with Ruby, or at the very least retreats to a less focal area to see if any people of note who may have relevant information are also tuning out the lectures.

CDM Jerry [OOC post]
Friday August 27th, 2021 11:28:25 AM
Rich, check your email please and reply to me sir. ;)

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Friday August 27th, 2021 6:27:29 PM
Rubalad does his Rurik thing to learn about the bandits, and then the Haemir thing to send a message to his folks.

DM Cayzle - The Sage Speaks
Friday August 27th, 2021 9:50:28 PM

Haemir seems fine with a long chat and visit with the sage, but prefers his own wine to the offered tea.

Rubalad makes a mental note to use that dream walk to send word to his family. But before that, he invites Rurik to leave the florists to their flora and to take a look around to see what's shaking.

Rurik is glad to join Ruby. [OOC: Please do roll a Diplomacy / Gather Info check.]

The obvious answer is that this new presence of free water is seen as a really big deal. People wonder how long it will last, and if it is a good omen or a danger. There's a rumor of unusual wildlife starting to come into the area too. A better roll from Rurik may reveal more.

Sol sticks with Haemir and Stumwhistle. He is looking for practical information.

Stumwhistle serves Sol his most tasty tea, and sips a little taste of Haemir's wine if it is offered. He expresses the belief that these new water-loving plants should be harvested and exploited as soon as possible, in case the situation changes.

The evening ends with Stunwhistle saying he was heading out to harvest in the morning. He does not explicitly invite you, but you have a DC0 Sense Motive check to detect that he would welcome company.

You meet back up to compare notes before turning in. The morning dawns bright and clear, just like pretty much every day.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+6=21 ;
Saturday August 28th, 2021 1:07:38 AM
(Thats a 21 on my diplomacy check, don't really have anything I can say in character rn for this bit)

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+7=12 ;
Saturday August 28th, 2021 7:23:02 AM
Ruby wanders about with Rurik, talking about himself, asking about New Rattledam, talking about the WaterBambooGrass, asking about the dangers of travelling away from the town, talking about the value of goods, and asking about people who are prospering despite the bandits.

The badger-kin is on a trail, and uses his knowledge of intelligent people to find what he and the Maiden Voyagers need.

….

Know Local (gather information). 12

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Saturday August 28th, 2021 9:09:05 AM
After his talk with Stumwhistle and Sol (in the early hours of the morning), as Haemir, Fand, Sol and Corbin head back to the hut, the Rapke known as Fand speaks to Sol.
"I finally realised how I know you little Sol-jah".
Haemir looks down and scratches behind Fands ear, he notes the tears welling in her eyes. His psychic connection with the Rapke tells him this is a private moment and so he bids them both goodnight and heads off to find Ruby. He pauses at the door to the hut and looks back at Fand and Sol one last time, then heads in. If Ruby is asleep he wakes him and reassures him everything will be ok. He sits near by.

"It's time Ruby, I will guide you to elsewhere, hold my hand and don't let go. Set your goal. Your intent n' if you find yourself wondering where you are remind yourself what it is. To speak to Your Ma or Pa decide on one for now". His eyes seem to cycle through the different colors of the Sargrass and Ruby feels relaxed enough to enter into a trance.

In elsewhere - a misty realm - he guides the beastfolk through pathways until they reach a brighter part. Whichever one of the dreamers chosen. Haemir bows to Ruby and says:
"This is their dream, but they will stop what they are doing and listen when you speak". (He casts: Dream (SLA) 1/day).
"When you wish to wake simply will it and you will be back in the Sargrass". The elf steps back and leaves Ruby to it. Fading into the dream. He hopes that with the resources to hand the beastfolk will find peace.
---

Back in his hut he stands and stretches, walks over to the door and leans on the frame. He keeps watch over Ruby whilst he dreams, causally looking over the grasses. It had been a few years now and he had finally found a home he liked. Quiet, savage, beautiful, peaceful, mysterious and dangerous. But you couldn't deny it's bounty - it gave as good as it took. He felt at peace here and nowhere else would match up to it. He watches as Fand sits next to Sol, but he doesn't listen in.
---

The Rapke known as Fand sits next to Sol and says:
"I finally realised how I know you Sol, I should have realised sooner, but I did not know how much time had passed before my... Well death. Do you remember a night maybe 12,14 years ago? You were in your fathers house and there was a little old nanny. She doted on you and behind your fathers back taught you your first spell"? She looks at him as his face goes through several emotions at once.
"Miss Netley her name was and she loved you dearly. Even though you were even scrawnier than you are now". She chuckles at her own teasing of the wizard.
"Her name in full was Miss Fand Netley and she was a Bloodwitch. Do you remember her"?
The Rapke drops down onto her belly and leans against the wizard.
"No one is more surprised than I am that we meet again Elijah 'little Soldier' Solomon"! She looks him right in the eyes (hers are begining to brim). "And no one is more proud of the man you have become"... Her eyes fill with too much emotion for even her to put into words.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: N/A
Sunday August 29th, 2021 3:57:13 AM
Sol's ears perk up at the mention of "Sol-jah" he frowns. His thoughts immediately becoming a whirlwind.

"Sol-jah... that is a name I have not heard in a very long time..." he realises it's the voice of the Rapke and so turns to it, looking into it's eyes as it speaks.

"Yes... I remember... Miss Netley was the one that taught me the power of magic and of my mind... I miss her terribly."

He listens to the Rapke, speaking to him, and he frowns, uncertainty clear on his face and in his movements. Normally confident in himself, he appears almost like a small boy again.

"I am not certain I am any LESS scrawny than I was, merely a bit taller..." He smirks at the teasing. It had been a long time since anyone had tried to do so, and he knew her heart was in the right place.

At the full name his face drops, and the pain that washes over his face is clear to anyone, even those who don't know him, and his usual, measured response to everything, in this moment his emotions are winning.

"Of course I remember her..." to those who don't know him, he even looks a little guilty.

"Fand... Miss Netley... I am so sorry... I did not know how to control the magic... but I have understood it a lot better since then. I... have not had an accident again. I have tight control. " he seems at a loss as to what to say.

"I will become better... perhaps all is not lost... perhaps we can find you a body?" He pauses. "No, that would not be right. You taught me all things must have their end, that is why they are beautiful, because they do not last forever."

He rubs his eyes, as they threaten to well up, but he seems to clamp down on the emotion.

"It is good to see you again... but we will be able to travel together! That means we can catch up. Perhaps we could learn from one another." His eyes brighten and he smile widely, simply patting and stroking the Rapke, and giving it affection and attention.

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger
Sunday August 29th, 2021 9:33:10 AM

Before the party reunites

Rurik overhears a rumor of a monster that has been seen near the wet environs and the new grass that has grown up. Descriptions of the monster are varied. Rurik hears that some animals (a prairie pig? a dog?) have gone missing.

Haemir's spirit companion comes to a realization, and has a heart-to-heart with Sol.

After the party reunites

Herbert has been busy with the duty of getting the Master Climber-Builder and his apprentice all settled in. He is now free to rejoin you.

After comparing notes, you realize that the area in which this monster has been reported is the same place that the sage intends to go herb gathering tomorrow.

In the night

Haemir helps Rubalad to send word back home.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Sunday August 29th, 2021 10:33:06 AM
Rubalad has been with the Maiden heroes for weeks, and has gotten to trust them: he relaxes and dreams T Haemir’s direction. The BloodWitch may feel the spell works for the Beastfolk just as well as a human or other noble race. The young badger-kin gets to his choice and moves to speak to his distaf side. “Mother, it is Ruby. I am alive and safe in a region called Sargrass. I have met a group of explorers and am helping them as I learn more. I have landed on my feet. I will find my quarry and bring justice. My love to the clan, to father, and to you. I guess that’s it Haemir.”

In the morning, Ruby is much too distracted to take clear part in making plans, but he will follow the group’s lead.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: N/A
Monday August 30th, 2021 6:20:16 PM
"I think we should accompany this Sage to ensure his safety, and it will give us a chance to see if we can find out what this creature is. If it poses a threat to the city, or any of her inhabitants we should see what we can do about warding it off and preventing it causing further harm."

Even as he speaks he stands next to Fand, stroking and patting the Rapke.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Monday August 30th, 2021 11:19:36 PM
Herbert would like to pick up an instrument while he is doing his duties. I Don't know what i available, but here are his choices in order. 1. Concertina/squeezebox. 2. Harmonica. 3. Jaw harp. 4. Pennywhistle. 5. fiddle.

Herbert is not taking any proficiency in this instrument, mind you. But he will be enthusiastic.

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger
Monday August 30th, 2021 11:42:33 PM

After connecting with his family overnight, Rubalad is too distracted to do more than go along with the party.

Sol suggests sticking with the sage, one Hubert P. Stumwhistle, since the sage may be headed into danger.

Yesterday, Herbert did some shopping. You can spend 5 gp or 100 gp on a nicer instrument that gives you a +2. Pick your type and quality. The paladin does not have a take on what to do about the unknown monster and the possible danger facing the sage.

You travel as a group and meet Stumwhistle, while he is in the safety of New Rattledam.

"Oh, good, you have come along. I did not realize you were quite so interested in flora! This is excellent."

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday August 31st, 2021 12:43:02 AM
"Oh my stars and garters, you're a bigun'! Please to meet you, Herbert Bramblerose at your service! Isn't the Sargrass a wonderful place? I've made lots of friends here. Are we going to set sail again soon? More adventure!" he says as he strikes a heroic Ral Partha-esque pose.

[DM Cayzle OOC: I edited this post to fix a formatting error, but did I also accidently delete part? Sorry! Please feel free to make a clarification / extra post.]

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Tuesday August 31st, 2021 6:04:43 AM
Rubalad looks the Sage up and down before truthfully replying. ” No, not unless you can suggest some herbs for a nice tea. I’m more interested in the monster that may be in the area. I will concentrate on keeping you alive.”

The young badger-kin has his kit and armor and weapons, and is ready to go.

Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Tuesday August 31st, 2021 6:01:29 PM
Haemir is ready too

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger
Tuesday August 31st, 2021 11:46:39 PM

As the sage leads the party forwards to the outskirts, he is excited about the flora. The rest of the party is more concerned with the fauna.

Please decide on a marching order as you set out, plus perception checks or any other things you may be doing ... casting long-duration spells? tracking? Anything?

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=20 ; d20+15=29 ; d20+18=27 ; d20+19=28 ;
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 1:23:21 AM
Rubalad thinks about his new friends and their abilities as if he is on the trail of a quarry. Hmmm, two Paladins, one Wizard, one BloodWitch, one Sage (who they have to keep alive bulgur also is the only one who knows where to go), and himself.

” As a suggestion, let me be ‘point man’ to look for tracks and ambushes, then Rurik as bodyguard to the Sage, then Sol with Haemir and his pet, then Herbert as rear guard. Since beast-folk and humans are faster than a dwarf, Rurik and the Sage is the pivot point, our ‘dwarf-fort’ that the rest of us fall in on if there is an attack.” .

Haemir and Sol are obviously the more long-time members of the group, so Ruby will defer to them for any modifications or changes to his idea.

On the walk, he keeps his eyes peeled for dangers and spoor that may indicate dangers. And takes the occasional look back at the Sage to sense if there is any deviousness in the man. (Ruby’s experience before abruptly arriving in the Sargrass was that the most dangerous animal in the Wold were Humans.)

……

Perception. 20
Survival. 29
Survival (Tracking). 27
Sense Motive. 28

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+16=32 ; d20+1=17 ; d20+8=11 ;
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 7:52:54 AM
Haemir nods to Ruby's suggestions and gives a thumbs up. Then casts mage armor on himself ([i}from the wand: UMD check:32[/i]) and offerd the botanist one.

(Perception (Haemir):17 / (Fand):11 as they travel).

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+2=21 ;
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 2:10:11 PM
Rurik nods in agreement with Rubalad's plan.

"Well said. I have little training in tracking, but it is my duty to protect others and defend against threats, and in this practice I am well versed."

Rurik keeps pace with the taller human, as long as he doesn't walk too fast. He keeps his eyes peeled, constantly scanning the area around them as they proceed. Thinking about the variety of beasts he saw at the towering grasses earlier, he keeps a hand on his sword hilt, and gathers the magical aura around him to use when necessary.

(Perception roll 21, readying an action to cast divine favor if we are attacked)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour (6 hours)
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 6:30:12 PM
"I agree with your suggestions Ruby... though I must admit tactics where never my strong suit..."

He smiles self deprecatingly, before casting Mage Armour on himself.

"I should perhaps spend some time scribing some additional Scrolls of the spells I am likely to use daily to should the need arise I always have them available..."

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 10:56:39 PM
"Sounds like a good plan, Ruby! I'll bring up the rear" Herbert draws his shortbow, arrow a the ready, and takes his place in line.

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Thursday September 2nd, 2021 12:38:24 PM
Haemir offers the botanoist a mage armor from the wand too

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby
Thursday September 2nd, 2021 3:42:30 PM
Ruby considers the using of spells, but then shrugs. When is too early? He doesn’t know. He DOES know too late is to cast protections after getting attacked. They trust his expertise, so the little Tracker trusts Sol and Haemir to know what they are about.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Thursday September 2nd, 2021 11:28:05 PM
"I wonder what kind of critters are out here? Maybe we'll discover something new! We could be famous!"

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger
Friday September 3rd, 2021 12:17:29 AM

Ruby suggests himself in front, then Rurik and Stumwhistle, then Sol and Haemir, and then Herbert.

Rurik and Ruby are both first to notice the rustling in the tall grass ahead. About 100 ft away is a repulsive odd thing. The creature is a horrid mass of barbed tentacles, glaring eyes, and gnashing teeth, twisting upon itself and reshaping into new forms.

If you make a DC17 Planes Knowledge check, you learn that Highlight to display spoiler: {this is a Chaos Beast. It is slow but inflicts powerful curses on those it touches.}

If you make a DC22 Planes Knowledge check, you learn that Highlight to display spoiler: {it attacks with four claws. If a claw hits, save or be cursed with losing your shape.}

It is cautiously stalking you, and it has not noticed that you see it.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+9=21 ; d4+9=11 ; d20+15=16 ;
Friday September 3rd, 2021 10:45:06 AM
Rubalad knows nearly nothing about anything outside of a city in the Wold; but at least he can recognize a threat. ”Really ugly beast stalking us; 100 feet away, front left. Anyone know what it is and any weaknesses?”

The Twilight Ranger gets his shield and scimitar out and ready, keeping an eye on the monstrosity.

…..

Perception. 16
Readied Attack if attacked. AC 21 Dam 11

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20=8 ;
Friday September 3rd, 2021 6:13:40 PM
Rurik has no idea what the thing in front of him is, but knows a threat when he sees one. He focuses his sense before him, trying to see if this being is evil, as he suspects it is. Raising his sword, he infuses it with holy energy, running his hand along the blade and feeling it warm in his grip.

"This is clearly no natural beast. Let us kill it and be done with this vile thing."

(Using detect evil on the creature, and if it is evil, targeting it with smite evil. Also casting Divine Favor, and if I have time I'd also like to pop the divine bond as well)

(Knowl Planes: 8)

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Saturday September 4th, 2021 12:25:55 AM
"Yurgh! that thing is UUUUUgggggllllyyyyyy! " says Herbert, with his bow drawn taught and ready to let fly an arrow if the creature advances...

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Saturday September 4th, 2021 3:15:58 AM
Haemir shudders at the sight of "IT" and prepares charm monster (DC18) when it's in range.

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger
Saturday September 4th, 2021 10:01:49 AM

Rubalad alerts his friends and draws his weapon.

Rurik casts Divine Favor. [OOC: in combat, you can only take one standard action. The creature is out of range for Detect Evil, so I chose the casting. Please track the ten round duration. Also, what exactly happens with "pop the divine bond" and what kind of action is required to activate it?]

Herbert readies an arrow and releases it when the creature advances, which it does. [OOC: In your next post, please roll to hit for your shot, and then also take your regular actions for next round.]

Haemir readies charm monster to take effect as the monster comes into range. It does advance, and the spell goes off. The monster has spell resistance, so please make a spell penetration check at the top of your next post.

The monster runs at you, but at its top speed, it only moves 80 ft forward. At the end of the round, it is 20 ft away from you. It is changing shape as it advances, and that makes it trip over its own limbs from time to time; that's why it is slow.

At the start of the next post we'll resolve the arrow attack and the charm spell. Please post your actions for the next round.

The Sage takes one look, shouts in alarm, and runs away in the other direction.

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+6=21 ;
Saturday September 4th, 2021 11:57:31 AM
(SR roll: 21)

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 26/16/23 CMD 23 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+9=11 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+2=10 ; d20+6=19 ; d2+4=5 ;
Monday September 6th, 2021 1:28:18 AM
Rubalad skips back to where Rurik stands and takes a defensive stance, his intent to be the wall that the creature can’t get by. If arrow and spell don’t stop it, it is up to curved metal!

A readied attack and then two slashes with his scimitar and a shield bash. Ruby doesn’t want to think about biting such a repulsive creature!

….

Defensive fighting +3 AC, -2 attack
Readied attack. 11
Full attack. 13 10 19. (Dam if 19 hit. 5)

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour (6 hours) d20+15=19 ; d20+4=17 ; d3=1 ; d20+6=14 ;
Monday September 6th, 2021 2:50:10 PM
Knowledge Planes - 19

"It is a Chaos beast! Do not let it touch you! It will curse you should it do so!"

He then casts a simple Ray of Frost for 1 point of damage should a 17 hit. (14 for Spell Resistance Penetration)

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+16=19 ; d20+11=22 ; 2d4+9=15 ; 2d4+9=12 ;
Monday September 6th, 2021 8:19:48 PM
Rurik looks back at the fleeing sage and shouts.

"Stay here! We can't protect you if you run away!"

Turning back to the threat ahead of him, he glowers at the thing, eyebrows knitting together as he hefts his falchion. Charging forward, Rurik engages with the chaos beast, glowing sword leaving bright, arcing afterimages, sweat beading along his brow as he does his best to keep this thing from the scholar.

(Just realized I can't make a full attack if I move, so ignoring the second rolls, that's 19 to hit and 15 damage if it hits. If I'm wrong and I can do the full round attack then the second is 22 to hit and 12 damage. Attacking is the standard action, moving 20 ft forward to it with a move action.)

(OOC: Sorry, didn't realize we had entered combat and action economy was a thing. I was referring to my "Divine Bond: Enhanced Weapon" which is a standard action to activate, once per day, and gives a +1 enhancement bonus. Since I can actually hit the creature rn I'll save it, I didn't realize it could move so fast.)

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger d20+4=17 ;
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 1:32:55 AM

Herbert fails to fire his arrow. [OOC: No post from player]

Haemir tries to charm it. The monster as SR18. Haemir rolled a 21, so his spell may work. It still gets a save ... It rolls a 17, just shy of the spells DC18!

The monster is charmed. It halts for a moment, looking at Haemir oddly. It does not attack this round.

There are posts with attacks rolled. Attacking a charmed creature poses the danger of breaking the charm. If you still wish to attack, just post that your prior post holds. If you choose not to attack, then please make an alternate post. We are still round-by-round.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 26/16/23 CMD 23 HP 52/52 Ruby
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 1:52:28 AM
Rubalad maintains his Readied Actions

……

A readied attack and then two slashes with his scimitar and a shield bash. Ruby doesn’t want to think about biting such a repulsive creature!

….

Defensive fighting +3 AC, -2 attack
Readied attack. 11
Full attack. 13 10 19. (Dam if 19 hit. 5)

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 4:25:37 PM
"I think I have charmed it.. What shall we do"?

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 10:43:15 PM

The chaos beast takes a five ft step towards Haemir, fawning. It seems friendly to him, though it snarls when it looks at you others. Does it know that its very touch curses mortals?

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 11:49:05 PM
"Darn stupid bow!' curses Herbert "Hey, it likes you!"

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 11:54:32 PM
ooc: Sorry about missing monday's post, I thought because it was a hoiday t was treated like a weekend. My bad.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 26/16/23 CMD 23 HP 52/52 Ruby
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 1:41:32 AM
Rubalad frowns. ”The magic stopped it, Haemir, but it will already be a danger to anything it touches. Sol says it’s not from the Wold, too. It needs to be destroyed to protect innocents. I think we all get ready and hit it as sting as we can all at once.”

The badger-kin keeps his defensive stance and between Haemir and Sol and the ‘Chaos Beast’. When the others are ready, he sidles up to strike hard.

……
Fighting Defensively

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 10:09:21 AM
Rurik launches forward prepared to attack the creature......and is stopped in his tracks when the thing playfully bounds to Haemir instead. After realizing what happens, Rurik begins taking his time to prepare a few more particular divine magics.

"Well then. Since he's been so nice as to sit and wait for us to get ready, I say we take full advantage of this opportunity, no?"

(Move action is being used for detect evil, as per the paladin ability. If it is evil, using a swift action to target it with my "smite evil" ability, which gains additional bonuses on top of that if it is an outsider with the evil subtype, an evil-aligned dragon, or an undead creature. Obv it isnt the latter two but I was thinking it might be the first one. Standard action to activate divine bond: enhanced weapon for an additional +1 enhancement bonus on attacks)

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 12:11:54 PM
Haemir looks at the weird creature - it's strange gaze makes him want to throw up but he maintains his dignity (for now).
"I agree, besides the thing gives me the heebie-jeebies, ok so get everything ready n' we can all act simultaneously"!

He mutters arcane words and a misty hand appears - it rests on his shoulder as if someone is stood behind him.

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger d20+13=24 ;
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 10:04:40 PM

Herbert watches and exclaims.

Ruby walks right up next to it, weapon in hand. This close, he sees an Ioun Stone circling the monster's "head."

Rurik tries to detect evil, finds that it is NOT evil, and thus does not activate his smite power.

Haemir casts a Spectral Hand. Anyone else casting would probably have been seen as threatening by the monster, but it trusts its friend Haemir and does not mind.

The monster DOES mind Ruby's posturing and invasion of its personal space. It lashes out at Ruby, hitting AC24 ... a miss against the well-defended Ruby. It moves away 20 feet after lashing out.

Ruby, you may take an AoO against the thing, but doing so will definitely break the charming magic, hit or miss.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy)
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 11:25:42 PM
Herbert prepares to lay hands and heal anyone in the party who gets hurt, but he cannot, in good conscience, attack a helpless creature...even if it is a fell beast of chaos.

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour (6 hours)
Thursday September 9th, 2021 2:19:18 AM
Sol moves up to the beast, trying to be as non threatening as possible (not that he's threatening to begin with!)

"How long will this charming last?"

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 23 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+11=30 ; d20+11=14 ; d4+9=10 ;
Thursday September 9th, 2021 2:57:46 AM
Rubalad jerks his shield into the path of the Chaos Beasts attack but withholds his opportunity, attacking together was the plan after all. The Badger-kin shrugs, ”The hard way then”, he declares, and with a nod at Rurik, the Tracker charges!

Putting as power as he can into his swing, Ruby slashes with his scimitar!

……

Charge. +2 attack, -2 AC
Power. +4 damage, -2 attack

Attack 30. Crit! 14 to confirm (fail). Damage. 10

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Thursday September 9th, 2021 6:51:16 PM
Haemir casts Gtr Magic Weapon on Ruby's weapon (+2)

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger d20+13=30 ; d20+13=33 ; d20+13=19 ; d20+13=20 ; d20+13=15 ; d6+3=9 ; d6+3=9 ;
Thursday September 9th, 2021 10:50:43 PM

Herbert is not ready to attack a non-evil creature that is not attacking. He's ready to heal.

Sol moves closer, but not into melee range, since he is trying to project peaceful vibes.

Rubalad does not take the offered AoO, but he is not on board with Herbert's reticence nor Sol's non-threatening nature. Instead, Ruby charges and slashes with his scimitar! He lands a solid blow (not a crit) for 10 damage.

This ends the charm, and the beast snarls in pain.

Haemir moves up behind Ruby and indicates his desire to touch his friend's scimitar. He casts Greater Magic Weapon on the blade.

[OOC: A caster must be CL8 to create a +2 effect; Haemir is CL6. So that's a +1, right?

The beast switches form, suddenly sprouting six mouths. Four of them snap at Ruby before they all are reabsorbed into the creature's shifting shape. The teeth bite AC30, 33 (crit threat follows up with a 19), 20, and 15. That's two hits -- correct your DM if not. Ruby takes 9+9 is 18 damage and must make two DC17 Fort saves. If you fail one of these saves, your own body is cursed with amorphism, and shifts shape randomly. [OOC: If you fail a save, I'll detail more precisely the effects. Keep in mind that as a starting PC above 3rd level you have three hero points, not the one listed on your sheet.]

Beast of Chaos
AC20
SR18
Damage taken: 10

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Friday September 10th, 2021 4:37:39 AM
(OOC: Oopsi yes you're correct in the +1 - so spell waisted but it's ranged so Haemir did not move! Sorry guys I'm unwell this week and it's not up to much. Doing my best).

Cayzle Comments: That's right, you used the spectral hand, thanks for keeping me honest.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 23 HP 34/52 Ruby d20+8=13 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+7=15 ; d4+9=11 ; d2+9=11 ;
Friday September 10th, 2021 3:19:23 PM
Rubalad is bitten twice with sharp teeth that quickly disappear! He feels cursed, but still tries to fight the Chaos Beast. He thanks Haemir for the magic weapon on his shield spikes, that will help!

Scimitar is a blur with two flicking strokes, and Rubalad punches out again with his shield. “Keep it together”, he growls at himself.

…

Fort. 2 fails, not gonna try to use a hero point on a lost cause

Power Attack -2 to hit +4 damage.
Scimitar. 26 Crit fail. Dam 11
Scimitar. 16 miss
Shield Punch. (With Magic weapon on spike). 20. Dam 11

Total. 22 damage pending amorphous penalties

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+6=12 ;
Friday September 10th, 2021 7:28:31 PM
(OOC: good catch Steve thx).

If Haemir can figure what he needs to - the misty hand flies to Ruby and channels Spell Immunity to curses - on the beastfolk. If clueless the hand channels Remove Curse which he casts from safety (his caster level check to bust it is 12).

It should be obvious the spell has dropped but to avoid any confusion he shouts "Hit it hard lads"!

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+17=25 ; d20+12=18 ; 2d4+9=16 ; 2d4+9=17 ;
Friday September 10th, 2021 9:37:36 PM
Rurik nods and charges forward, continuing his onslaught as if he were uninterrupted. As he slashes at the creature, dodging around a flailing limb, he shouts

"Whatever this thing is, it isn't evil! Must just be some strange beast. And does anyone have an idea where that scatter brained scholar went?"

(First attack, 25 to hit, 16 damage if it hits, second attack 18 to hit, 17 damage if it hits).

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) | AC 20 | CMD 18 | 68/68 HP 3d6=8 ;
Friday September 10th, 2021 11:35:57 PM
Herbert lays hands on Ruby (with the Mercy: Diseased attached for free

Heals 8 points to Ruby

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger d20+13=20 ; d20+13=14 ; d6=6 ; d20+13=25 ; d20+13=24 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ;
Saturday September 11th, 2021 10:45:19 PM
Ruby is cursed! The effect is this: Your body is shapeless and shifting; your shape constantly melts, flows, writhes, and boils. You are immune to precision damage (like sneak attacks) and critical hits. You cannot hold or use any item -- you drop your weapon. Clothing, armor, helmets, and rings become useless. Large items worn or carried—armor, backpacks, even shirts—hamper more than help, reducing the victim's Dexterity score by 4. Speed is reduced to 10 feet or one-quarter normal, whichever is less. You cannot cast spells or use magic items, and you gain a -4 penalty on attack rolls and a 50% miss chance.

Ruby cannot attack with blade and spikes. He can make unarmed attacks. Ruby, please feel free to take your attacks and use them for unarmed attacks. Recall that if you do not have Imporved Unarmed Attacks, you provoke an AoO when you lash out (at -4 and with a 50% miss chance), if you choose to do so.

Ruby, ALSO make a DC 17 fort save every round or take a point of Wisdom. Three consecutive saves removes the curse.

ALSO, you have the option to make a DC15 Will save to regain your form for a minute.

I need the DC17 Fort save from Ruby, and the decision on attacks for this round. You might, for example, choose to forgo those attacks and use total defense.

Haemir moves his spectral hand to Ruby and casts Remove Curse. That does the trick, and Ruby is fine.

Rurik attacks and hits for 16 damage. (The hit vs AC18 misses. It is AC20.)

Herbert lays hands on Ruby and heals 8 points.

The monster flails at Rurik and Rubalad.

Against Rurik it hits AC20 and AC14. That's one hit for 9 damage and a fort save vs DC17 or be cursed!

Against Ruby it hits AC25 and AC24. Assuming Ruby is AC23, that's two hits for 15 damage and two DC17 saves!

Beast of Chaos
AC20
SR18
Damage taken: 26

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 16/16/16 CMD19 HP27/52 Ruby d100=29 ; d20+8=17 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=17 ; d20+2=5 ;
Sunday September 12th, 2021 2:54:15 AM
Ruby attempts to groan as his scimitar slips from fingerless hand. He looks with his three eyes as his shield falls from his tentacle! “Wot appn Ing ooo me?”, he manages to get out.

He lashes out from reflex at the monster, opening an opportunity for attack, but at least hitting the monster. Could HE become just like that? Right now, it seems all too likely!

Without armor and shield and lack of dexterity, Ruby is very very vulnerable, but decides to stay to fight. Maybe if it keeps attacking him, the others will be safe! He goes fully defense (Ooc: how much good that will do!)

….
Only the previous ‘26’ would have hit with the -4. Miss chance 29: miss

Fully defensive. +6 AC

Fort DC 17 vs Wisdom drain. 18 success #1
2 Fort DC 17 for new attacks. 13, 17. Yep, still cursed!
Will DC 15. 5. Did not regain form.

Cursed! constantly shifting body. immune: precision damage, critical hits. Can’t hold/use items, large items are -4 Dex. Speed -10. -4 attack rolls w 50% miss.
DC 17 fort per rd or -1Wis
DC15 Will; keep form 1min

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+6=13 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=27 ; d20+8=14 ; d3+4=5 ;
Sunday September 12th, 2021 9:18:30 AM
Fand attacks (missing with two but hitting with: 27 for 5 dmg)

Haemir casts remove curse (via the hand), as Ruby is cursed and has acted he casts this on on Rurik if he fails his save - if he's ok then it gets cast again on Ruby (Coalesce Spells 2 1st level slots to cast the remove curse - his caster level check to bust it is 13).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour (6 hours) d20+4=9 ; d20+4=22 ; 4d6=21 ;
Monday September 13th, 2021 7:05:56 PM
Sol, shaking himself out of confusion, immediately follows up by firing Scorching Rays at the Chaos beast, then moving away from it.

9 - Miss
22 - Hit!

21 Fire Damage!

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+9=23 ; d20+17=34 ; d20+12=22 ; 2d4+9=14 ; 2d4+9=17 ;
Monday September 13th, 2021 9:30:36 PM
As one of the tendrils slams into his armor, another worms its way into a gap between the plates and brushes against Rurik's body, trying to wrap around a limb. Gritting in pain, he grabs the thing with his gauntleted hand and rips it off of him, throwing the dismembered chunk to the ground.

"This has gone on for far too long. Whether it be the abyss, or some other dark and oozing pit, I am sending you back to where you belong!"

Rurik plants his boot on the thing, and with a mighty roar slams his falchion down on it, leaving a gigantic gash. He pulls his sword back, and with another brutal downward chop, hits the same place, and cuts it nearly in half. He kicks whatever is left of it away and stumbles back, panting, glancing around for any other threats.

"Is anyone still hurt?"

(23 on the fort save. For future reference would this count as a "spell like ability"? I get a bonus to those but wasnt sure whether or not it would apply. Full round attack, first strike 34 to hit, second strike 22, so both hit. First strike 14 damage and second 17, which unless I'm mistaken is lethal. If it isn't then I'll make another post.)

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) | AC 20 | CMD 18 | 68/68 HP d8+6=13 ;
Monday September 13th, 2021 11:14:36 PM
"No! I'll heal you, Ruby! Herbert yells and casts Cure light Wounds healing Ruby for 13 points.

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 1:00:29 AM

Rubalad was briefly returned to his normal form by a well-placed Remove Curse, but as soon as you can say Jack Dandy, the monster hits him again and curses him a second time! Ruby struggles to regain his form or to attack, without success.

Haemir casts Remove Curse and again restores Ruby! Boy, this back and forth is a befuddlement!
Fand attacks and hits for 5 damage!

Sol flings his Scorching Rays at the Chaos Beast, hitting once for 21 Fire Damage!

Rurik throws off the threat of the curse! Dwarves do not get cursed easily, although they have been known to employ curses and colorful language from time to time! [OOC: Not a SLA!] He gashes the beast twice and inflicts 14 and 17 damage!

Herbert reaches out and casts cure light Wounds, healing Ruby for 13 points.

The almost mortally wounded monster cries out in piercing pain through the mouths that it forms and dissolves. It uses the withdraw action to try to escape, headed away from New Rattledam. It travels 40 ft by the end of the round. It has some light cover in the grasses.

Beast of Chaos
AC20
SR18
Damage taken: 26+5+21+14+17 = 83 damage!

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 16/16/16 CMD19 HP27/52 Ruby d20+10=12 ; d20+10=17 ;
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 7:32:42 AM
Rubalad sighs in relief as Haemir’s strange magic is able to overcome the Chaos Curse. But the monster is getting away! ”We can’t let it escape to wreak havoc across the land!” Sword and shield are already on the ground, so the Tracker sprints forward releasing from his side a stiff piece of rope already rolled into a lasso. The hunter of men hopes to entangle the beast enough to allow the others to slay it.

……
Move 30’
Throw Lasso. Touch Attack. 12. Hero Point 17. Entangled! -2 att, -4dex, ½ speed for Chaos Beast

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 7:57:10 AM
Ugh. forgot SR 18 vs that scorching ray!

Sol, please roll a caster level check to beat that. If you fail, the monster just chose to flee but was less injured when it did so.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+19=37 ; d20+19=25 ; 4d4+9=16 ;
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 4:50:06 PM
Rurik mutters something most ungentlemanly under his breath, if anyone within earshot can understand dwarvish, and chases down the beast. Heavy armor clanking as his heavy footfalls trample the grass, like a living bowling ball of destruction he bears down on his target. With a mighty slash crackling with divine energy, he effortlessly slashes through dozens of pseudopods, before finally managing to bring the full force of his blade to bear against the main mass.

(Full round charge action, move 40 feet to it, and attack once. 18, that's a threat with a falchion! And a 25 to confirm, its a crit! So thats double dice, normal modifiers, so 4d4 +9 for 16 damage)

(whoops misread "SR" as "HP" for my last post.....facepalm. Can't believe I just made such a basic mistake)

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+8=9 ; d20+6=18 ;
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 5:39:06 PM
Fand swipes and misses (Attack:9) the fleeing creature and pursues (base 50' round).
Haemir raises his xbow and fires just skimming past it's head (Attack:18), he also chases after it with Ruby (unless anyone else is cursed).

Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour (6 hours) d20+6=25 ; d20+6=25 ; 6d20=56 ; 6d6=24 ;
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 6:04:21 PM
Caster Check versus SR - Pass!

Sol moves to line up a lightning bolt against the creature, and lets it fire off with a huge thunderclap sound as the bolt sparks from his hand and streaks across the air to strike the Beast.

Caster Check versus SR - Pass!

24 Damage to the Beast, Reflex Save DC - 19 for Half

DM Cayzle - The Sage In Danger
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 7:46:37 PM

The Chaos Beast dies in a smash of blade and bolt! Everyone is valiant, but Sol and Rurik are the ones to deal the deathblows.

[OOC: Ruby and Rurik, please accept a hero point for engaging the monster in melee range despite the risk.]

The monster's steaming remains are sizzling as the sage walks up and takes a good look.

"Alas," says Stumwhistle. "Did you have to wreak the specimen quite so ... efficiently?"

You hear other townsfolk approaching now that the danger has passed.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) | AC 20 | CMD 18 | 68/68 HP
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 10:47:55 PM
"HUZZAH"! Herbert yells, "Are you well, Ruby? Do you need anything? Well done, my brothers!'

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 16/16/16 CMD19 HP 40/52 Ruby
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 1:27:37 AM
Rubalad catches his breath and retrieved his lasso, carefully cleaning it and looping it together for the next time it will be needded. Herbert’s question brings him short and he does an assessment. ”Thanks to you and Haemir, I think I’m well except for a few scrapes and bruises. I did not look forward to looking like a blob of jellied meat: how would my parents recognize me if I ever got home?”. The joke is feeble, but Ruby is still pretty shaken up at his close call.

Ruby ignores Stumwhistle, his plaintive exclamation grinding against the badger-Kin’s sense of what is important and what is irrelevant. He also leaves the explanations to town leaders to Others who already have established relations.

”very impressed, Rurik and Sol, you both were wonderful in killing the beast. Haemir, could there be other jellied creatures around that also need in-cursing?”

(Ooc: yay! Hero point!)

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 2d8+6=9 ;
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 6:33:31 AM
"Wow that was amazing what you guys did"! Haemir heals Ruby (9 points) and will happily do more with an additional CLW.
"What an eerie creature. I sure hope no more are around. Let's keep our eyes open just in case. Anyone else injured"?

He shudders as he looks at the weird body and remembers what happened to Ruby and is eager to put it behind them.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | 3d6=8 ; d3=1 ; 3d6=10 ; 3d6=4 ;
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 2:13:47 PM
Rurik begins cleaning his sword, as he talks to Sturmwhistle, making sure to get off all the blood and goo that could damage his blade, letting all his magical enhancements fade as well.

"No, we didn't have to. We could have taken our time with it and been very careful about killing it to preserve the body, as it continued to attack us and perhaps kill us. If you want things killed pristinely, then get hunters with bows, not a dwarf with a falchion."

He looks up, glancing at the scholar.

"Glad to see you're alright though. Was worried you had run off and found some other trouble.

After taking a moment to catch his breath (Lay on hands on self, 8 points), he walks over to Ruby, clapping him on the back (Lay on hands, 10 points), and healing him as he does so.

"You did well yourself, I doubt we could have done as well as we did if you had not been there as well.
It is fortunate that we came across you in the planes before this."

Rurik glances around at the group, and sees the rest are uninjured, so lets out a sigh of relief and collects himself. (Lay on hands, 4 points)

(The d3 is a misclick, sorry. Also yay, more hero points!)

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) | AC 20 | CMD 18 | 68/68 HP
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 10:50:36 PM
"What a strange creature! Surely it can't be from the Sargrass....have any of you seen one of these...things before?" asks Herbert as he pokes the gooey corpse with his sword....

DM Cayzle - The Sage is Grateful
Thursday September 16th, 2021 12:56:31 AM

Stumwhistle listens to Rurik and blushes. "Ah, yes, indeed. I did get a bit caught up in the ... natural philosophy of the chance for study. You are right of course, and you protected me beyond my desserts."

"Please, all of you, let me thank you properly. I'd love to host you at the finest eatery in town, to show my appreciation!"

At this point other townsfolk have arrived and are gawping at the dead chaos beast. The tone of the comments is amazement -- both amazed at the odd strange creature and at the bravery of the heroes.

Stumwhistle calls everybody around and declaims in his oration voice the story of the encounter. He speaks self-deprecatingly of his own lack of foresight and tendency to run away, while lauding to all the way you heroes took charge of the situation. People gasp when they hear that Ruby was cursed -- TWICE -- by the monster.

If you do not object, the sage leaves off his field trip to lead you back into New Rattledam to celebrate. A couple brawny townsfolk carry the corpse with.

The celebration grows in numbers and enthusiasm as the afternoon progresses, and you find yourselves sitting down to a fine meal, if that's ok. Needles shows up and seems impressed with you too.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 16/16/16 CMD19 HP 40/52 Ruby
Thursday September 16th, 2021 6:36:32 AM
Rubalad smiles, no teeth, and is very happy. This is what he was wanting: acknowledgement that beast-folk are as noble and intelligent and part of the community as any other good and intelligent race! He will freely retell his part in the battle as well as giving lots of praise to Rurik, Haemir, Sol, and Herbert. ”we needed everyone! We made a great team!”, he exclaims.

And he is looking forward to a feast and talking with more of the community leaders.

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Thursday September 16th, 2021 10:11:38 AM
Haemir also adds to the story telling how in fact he did virtually nothing but expanding on the bravery of his colleagues and reaffirms that the beastfolk was a valuable asset as well.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) | AC 20 | CMD 18 | 68/68 HP
Thursday September 16th, 2021 3:27:09 PM
Herbert takes out his concertina and sings a sea (grass?) shanty about Ruby the Brave and dances a jig. He does without proficiency, but with charm and enthusiasm.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Thursday September 16th, 2021 6:36:56 PM
Rurik is surprised by the amount of awe and ceremony that surround them as they head back to town, not used to his exploits being celebrated so fiercely. Modestly downplaying the role he played in the creature's death, he and Ruby go back and forth for a short while arguing over who dealt the fiercer blows, Rurik arguing for the strength of Ruby's sword arm. As the scholar loosens up Rurik warms to him, taking him aside privately and giving a few words of warning

"I understand that for those not used to such things, being ambushed by monsters can be...unsettling to say the least. Truth be told, sometimes it still shakes me to my bones. But you have to keep in mind that what's out there may not be alone, and what may be dangerous as a group willbe lethal on your own. Your fellows are your greatest asset, even when they aren't adventurers like us. You need to be sure that you can do these sorts of things safely, or else one day you simply wont come back, and I doubt anyone here wants that. We got lucky today, but luck runs out. Best to have good fellows and a strong arm instead."

DM Cayzle - The Sage is Grateful d20+7=10 d20+7=9
Thursday September 16th, 2021 11:57:31 PM

Rubalad talks up the value of teamwork and the mickle prowess of his friends.

Needles nods along and echoes Ruby's praise. "I have an idea about this," he says, half musing aloud. "I think we need to do something about this. Ruby, will you and your friends visit the Council on the day after tomorrow?"

Haemir reaffirms Ruby's words and speaks up the beastfolk as well. One of the servers in the establishment, a very pretty girl, seems quite taken with what Haemir is saying, and in a private moment thanks him and plants a kiss on him. Her hands are a little "busy" during that kiss!

Haemir, please make a Perception check vs DC10 If you make it then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {She reaches into a pocket, maybe to take something? If so, she failed.}

Haemir, please make another Perception check vs DC9 If you make it then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {She tried to put a small note into another pocket. If you read the note, you see it has her name (Saraboo) and an invite to a rendez-vous!}

Herbert starts up an enthusiastic tune! Soon the crowd is joining in. It may not be a professional performance, but professional musicians seldom visit the town, and the effort is greatly appreciated!

Rurik engages Sage Stumwhistle in a deep practical and philosophical discussion. The sage very much enjoys this, and engages with Rurik.

At the end of the night, he offers Rurik "a very small token of my thanks," a small container of tea. It takes hot water and a minute to steep, but upon drinking it acts as a spell of Lesser Restoration. There's enough tea for six cups. [Please note on your sheet as a fate item granted by DM Cayzle on this date. No resale value, no ding vs WBL.]

Assuming Ruby accepts the invitation from Needles, the heroes have all day tomorrow for R&R, training, and activities. In Haemir's case, maybe "activities?"

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+1=4 ; d20+1=3 ;
Friday September 17th, 2021 6:09:07 AM
(Perception: 4 and 3). Boy oh boy did the pretty lady sure pick the wrong way to get Haemir's attention. He's not known for his perception. Two days later he finds an odd piece of paper in his pocket and scratching his wonders how it got there.

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 16/16/16 CMD19 HP 40/52 Ruby
Friday September 17th, 2021 6:12:39 AM
Ruby readily accepts a meeting with the Council, even though he’s not sure what they would want with him and the Maiden Voyagers. For Ruby, it is another step towards acknowledgement and legitimacy for beast-folk!

He uses his spare time to ensure he is presentable; cleaning and minor repairs of equipment and clothes. He will even seek out the tradesmen for more serious repair.

On the day to meet the Council, he leaves his backpack, but comes in armor and sheathed weapons. His cloak, tunic, and trews the mottled greens and tans of a hunter.

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Friday September 17th, 2021 9:25:18 PM
Rurik spends the rest of the day working on his gear, polishing his armor and honing the edge of his blade. A mere fighter can present themselves any which way, but a paladin must be a shining beacon, as if they had stepped from a storybook. Shining armor and glittering blade, beaming smile and a reassuring voice. He of course looks forward to the council meeting, and hopes that any words of wisdom he can provide are useful. Between Needle before, and Sturmwhistle now, Rurik is learning about another aspect of being a hero, of helping with the small fights and monsters we all face.

DM Cayzle - The Town is Grateful
Saturday September 18th, 2021 9:32:00 AM

Oblivious Haemir misses his chance at an assignation! Perhaps another day.

Rubalad, sensitive to acting as a representative of his people and his comrades, makes a special effort to buff up his appearance.

Rurik too shines up real nice.

Sol and Herbert seem unconcerned about what turns out to be a formal occasion.

The event begins with just the party and the Council of Rattledam; Stumwhistle is there as well. The Council asks for an account of the encounter with this Chaos Beast. After hearing out the heroes, Stumwhistle adds that in his opinion, this is the creature that was seen earlier, and that it is an individual drawn from another dimension.

"It is well known to scholars and natural philosophers that the Sargrass is located on a 'thinny,' which is to say, that the boundaries between the Wold and other places are thin here," the sage lectures. "In time past, this led to a lake of Woldsblood pooling under the Sargrass, with disastrous effects. While the gods, in their mercy, restored the Sargrass, the boundaries are still thin, and so an individual outsider, such as this Beast, may from time to time pop in. My guess is that this one brought with it a pool of water, which gave rise to the burst of flora I have observed."

"In my opinion, though, this is not an indication of an infestation or migration. These worthy heroes have saved us."

Needles bows and gathers a consensus of the Councilors. "Then we can proceed to the public portion of the day," he concludes.

He leads everybody to the wide porch outside the chamber. You see that a crowd has gathered.

A trumpet is blown and Needles reads from a scroll:

In recognition of many deeds achieved to the benefit of the people of New Rattledam, The Council recognizes the heroes known as the Sargrass Sentinels.

They helped protect and found this community.

They helped establish elections and the political basis of our community.

With their remarkable vessel, The Maiden of the Plains, they have established contact with the city of Zaran, a future trading partner.

They traveled to a Climber community and brought back a master weaver to improve our defenses.

And most recently, they protected the town against an invader from another dimension.

For these and other services, in recognition of the vital role they have played, the Council is pleased to declare the Sentinals as "Heroes of Rattledam."

Needles rolls up the scroll and presents it to Haemir.

"We are also pleased," Needles continues, "to bestow upon you these small tokens of appreciation."

Needles shakes the hand of each hero and gives each of you a ring woven of steelgrass.

[OOC: These rings are nonmagical, but if you choose to have them enchanted at the Catacombs in the future, you may do so at a 10% discount. Please list your ring on your sheet and note that this Fate Item was bestowed by ACDM Cayzle on this date.]

"And now, if their hearts moves them to speak, we would hear from each of you heroes! Please step up and offer us a few words!"

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 16/16/16 CMD19 HP 40/52 Ruby
Saturday September 18th, 2021 12:26:33 PM
Rubalad smiles, very pleased, as he accepts his SteelGrass Ring. Privately, he quips, ”Sargrass Sentinels? I like the name. Didn’t know we were called that!”

He steps up to the porch rail and hops up so more people can see his white striped head. “I thank you, and am proud to be a part of the Sargrass Sentinels!”. He steps down. He really doesn’t have anything he can say about the community, only having been in town for a couple of days, and Momma always warned to never promise the whole bandit camp when you don’t have them in hand.

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Sunday September 19th, 2021 4:42:06 PM
Fand virtually pushes Haemir to the podium (he's that shocked by the turn of events).
"There are many people that should be here receiving this n' they can't be here. I dunno about being a hero, I do know this though. It doesn't take one hero to do all this, it takes many.
It takes us, it takes all of you and it takes patience n' persistence. Having a good team around" He gestures to the party, "I try n' keep the stitches together. They do the hero-ing".
He scratches his head and steps back after thanking everyone. He's not even sure if what he said made sense - he was that flumoxed.

Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) | AC 20 | CMD 18 | 68/68 HP
Sunday September 19th, 2021 10:45:42 PM
"Hero? That's an awfully big word, but thank you. You've all been very kind to us, and shown us great hospitality in your home. I am happy to help in any small way that I can. You all are very good folk, and I am proud to be part of the Sentinels...It is a role...no, a duty...that I take very seriously, even if I am not the most serious of beings at all times. Good peoples of New Rattledam, I am honored to serve, and thank you for the gift." and with that, Herbert bows and steps down with a shy smile.

Haemir (Rich) AC:17/17/14 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49
Monday September 20th, 2021 11:04:41 AM
As the others speak Haemir looks out across the grass...
Had it whispered again? He could almost understand it!
There was something final almost about the award, he could feel the wind of change on the horizon.

Haemir scans all the faces in the crowd, so many new ones, but still he spotted a few from his ship that left three years ago.
They had done everything they had set out to do. Could he relax finally?

There was still some exploring left to do - but it felt like he wasn't needed here anymore.
The people were safe and even as they spoke he could see the advances that the weavers were making. Soon New Rattledam would be safe and possibly even some of the major guilds would be joining them soon.
He could see living proof of the immense power of a group of people coming together with similar interests who - the power of working together toward the same goals.

He sighs and looks up to the sky, the sun warming his face and closes his eyes, remembering everyone he had adventured with.

Bigby, the tenacious Beastfolk and his wolf. In the end he had found his family.
Ungy - the awkward bard - who always made Haemir laugh.
Barnaby - another Beastfolk Avian who Fand (when she'd been in bird form) had a thing for.
Caelwyn - the Paladin who often steered the party on the right path, the voice of reason.
'Lil - the priest who literally kept them alive, her words of wisdom would stuck with him forever.
Akuno - the princess of cats who's innocence refreshed him.
Thorondir - the scary druid who literally bought the Sargrass alive.
Grindar, Son of Grindor and his lion. Wait hadn't Haemir seen him in a dream recently?
Xel'Aw - the learned, gentle and articulate poet.
Sol - he looks towards his friend and sees that Fand has flopped down next to the wizard, the boy she had given her life for many years ago. She didn't regret her decision then - nor now.

The Sargrass was in good hands - Rurik, Ruby and Herbert were better defenders of the weak than he would ever be. He would miss them too.

Those that he could not see - he hopped were all safe, happy and with their loved ones.

Haemir himself had never found his loved one, but he was still young for an elf. Maybe she was out there?
Or maybe he'd found it here in the form of the Sargrass. It was crazy, weird, scary and yet always beautiful.

In his life he had always understood one thing. You always leave a piece of yourself in the places you love.
Part of him would always be here - sailing the plains, the wind in his hair.
The shouts of his friends.

He isn't quite sure why he says it but he words spill out: "Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting".

Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP |
Monday September 20th, 2021 1:13:39 PM
Rurik steps up to the podium, looking out at the sea of faces. Faces looking to him with expectation, excitement, interest. These people see him as a hero, and he finally is beginning to feel like one, instead of simply playing the part, doing his duty. He is no longer a young soldier, dreaming of the day when he can remake the name his forefathers sullied. These people only know his name through his actions, and they have judged him worthy. He prays his ancestors may do so as well. Taking a deep breath, he begins.

"People of New Rattledam. I have seen much in my travels across the world, but nothing as unusual as these grassy plains, and have seen few as bold and fearless as those who choose to live here. Your courage, resourcefulness, and skill are boundless, and the world would be a better place if there were more who shared it. I have done my part to keep this place alive, to shield it and protect it from the dangers that would topple it, but this work is beyond any one warrior. We must all be shields, beacons of light to guard against the night. We must come together, strong as steelgrass, to reach into the heavens and bring them here to dwell among us. You must not forget your duty, your obligation, to defend your countrymen. I have seen places where brother turns on brother, and the rich steal from the poor, but those places are far from here. We must all ensure that such evils do not take root here! Much as the grass advances through the fields, strangling the crops til nothing remains but rot, so too does evil bring cataclysm on the places it dwells. Adventurers can only do so much to prevent the spread of such vileness, and there is much work to be done in the world by us. It is up to you all to take up arms, be vigilant, and wise, and hold the line against the coming dark, like a beacon against the spread of the shadow! It seems daunting, impossible, to do so. But it is not! I am just one man, born in the shadows with little but scraps, and yet i have become the paladin of the light you see before you. You are all made of stern stuff, strong, and with inner fire like a blazing forge. I believe in this. I believe in you. And I believe in New Rattledam!"

Jerry [OOC post]
Monday September 20th, 2021 6:37:44 PM
Just a reminder to read your email concerning this game if you have not players. :)

DM Cayzle - The Town is Grateful
Monday September 20th, 2021 10:05:28 PM

Rubalad offers a short speech to express his pride in his friends. Everybody applauds.

Haemir offers a longer speech that calls back to the friends he has made here in the Plains. He seems a bit flummoxed, but the folks listening cheer him on.

Herbert focuses on the duty of being a hero, protecting others and offering thanks for the gift.

Amid the speechifying, Haemir waxes philosophical and a bit melancholy.

Rurik charges the people to stick together, to keep the community strong. He appeals to their pride, and the result is a thunder of approval.

Sol, maybe too shy, keeps to the background.

The party lasts into the night, and everyone enjoys the company of their heroes. Tomorrow is another day, a day that may hold more adventures, or perhaps peace at home, but tonight, the Wold delights in you.

[OOC: Thank you, my friends, for the privilege of being one of your DMs. This marks the last DM Post for the Sargrass Plains game. Please feel free to post here for your final goodbyes over the next day or two.]

Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 16/16/16 CMD19 HP 40/52 Ruby
Tuesday September 21st, 2021 12:48:06 PM
Food and talk, and listening and being heard. Ruby is proud that he is being treated as an equal, and enjoys his time. The community seems strong, and thanks in good part to what Haemir and Sol and their friends have wrought. And Rurik’s speech has seemed to bring the town of New Rattledam even more together.

”I don’t think I’m needed here anymore. I think I’m going to take ship and try to find my way back to New Elennia.”

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