Chapter 2: The Creepy Forest

The Guide

Skyharpy Inactive for 7 months

Nov 16, 2023 2:55 am
The light fades as one enters the forest, turning into a strange dark and quiet place with over hanging moss and black bark trees. Only the sounds of beast and fowl can be heard. The smell of decay hangs still in the air. This forest is famous for its over-large fungi.
It is the Season of Falling Leaves which at least allows some streams of sunlight to pierce through the upper canopy. However, the carpet of leaves makes it difficult to discern the path from the rest of the sodden ground. Ancient structures and flat stones, however, are helpful for the observant.


https://images-wixmp-ed30a86b8c4ca887773594c2.wixmp.com/f/8185f166-fd34-4bce-a741-70ba7f32a5e2/d6djpnr-6c16ceda-de87-4bed-a330-b2e312a62939.jpg/v1/fill/w_1280,h_768,q_75,strp/autumn_stream_by_ninjatic_d6djpnr-fullview.jpg?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1cm46YXBwOjdlMGQxODg5ODIyNjQzNzNhNWYwZDQxNWVhMGQyNmUwIiwiaXNzIjoidXJuOmFwcDo3ZTBkMTg4OTgyMjY0MzczYTVmMGQ0MTVlYTBkMjZlMCIsIm9iaiI6W1t7ImhlaWdodCI6Ijw9NzY4IiwicGF0aCI6IlwvZlwvODE4NWYxNjYtZmQzNC00YmNlLWE3NDEtNzBiYTdmMzJhNWUyXC9kNmRqcG5yLTZjMTZjZWRhLWRlODctNGJlZC1hMzMwLWIyZTMxMmE2MjkzOS5qcGciLCJ3aWR0aCI6Ijw9MTI4MCJ9XV0sImF1ZCI6WyJ1cm46c2VydmljZTppbWFnZS5vcGVyYXRpb25zIl19.4T6BbHSNU8WdLlZfBg4RoKz5i4yiAfeRWEA0hy6d8gc

The Guide
The guide leads you to the edge of the Forest of Creeps early in the morning as arranged. You are given the map, the ashes, and rations for 10 days. To Belvedere, a wand that is about two feet long and made of Holly is offered. "You missed the ritual, sir, so this is all the Baron can offer you."

When your party heads into the forest in slow motion, what theme song is playing in the background? :) What does your pc's slow motion walk look like?

KCC

Nov 17, 2023 12:38 am
Nursing a pounding forehead, Belvedere blinks through the morning’s harsh rays. He sighs with contentment each time the sun is hidden behind the thick canopy above once again.

"Oh, oh… Yes, lovely." he says, taking the wand. He presses the tip against the floor and finds it a little short to be a walking stick.

"And… and remind me again what it might do, if you don’t mind. I have the foggiest mind this morning. Forgive me, won’t you?"

Having received his answer, he looks to the others and gives a weary sigh:

"I suppose we had better be on our way then! To the, eh…" he says, coming up short on the details!
Not long into the journey, he pulls free his instrument, and makes a show of presenting it to everyone.

"A little something for our spirits. Don’t… Don’t be shy now, eh? Sing along if you know the words!"
Last edited November 17, 2023 1:12 am
Nov 17, 2023 1:07 am
[ +- ] The Garden of Earthly Delights
It's with a solemn affair that makes way for the creepy forest. Xaka and Kendral share sharp looks, still sore after a heated exchange the night before about whether or nor Moonshadow should sleep in the house with them. Moonshadow itself was likely the most putout, but Xaka couldn't read the dark looks of the owl. She liked owls well enough, and it was a gorgeous bird. Just, not in the house. It was bad luck, and Xaka was as stubborn as a frozen rock.

When Belvedere sighs about the path, and runs out of words, she lends her assistance. "Forest of Creeps, to the Castle of the Fallen Countess. It's where we are going." She looks ahead. "At least, that's where we were told we are going."

KCC

Nov 17, 2023 1:19 am
Speaking above the sound of his instrument, Belvedere lets out a hearty laugh:

"Aha! Is that an adventurous spirit, I detect? Where we were told to go, and where the road takes us…well, they so often are two very different things indeed!"

He continues playing then, humming along and trying to string a few original words together to the music.

Then, he snaps out of it and curses himself!

"Goddess, strike me down! I’m sure I’ve heard tell of the, eh… What was it? Oh, yes! The Castle of the Fallen Countess before. What was it they used to say?"
OOC:
Is there any additional lore, rumor or tale a humble skald might have heard?
Nov 17, 2023 4:50 am
"I hope you do recall a bit more about the fate of the Countess, Belvedere, and what we may find is the current state of her fortress. The Baron was a bit vague in his history lesson. He just told us the fortress was sacked by invaders and alluded that she used undead magic to fight them off, sacrificing her life to raise the dead, perhaps becoming one herself."

"I am sure though that this map will lead us to her fortress."

Kendral looks up in the trees and spots Moonshadow on a branch before the bird takes flight to another tree. He catches another sharp look from Xaka. Replying to the glare he says to her, "Hey, I didn't bring the bird into the study...he's happy now that we're all on the trail together...he likes you, you know."
Last edited November 19, 2023 6:50 am
Nov 17, 2023 4:50 am
"Hoo, hoo" calls the bird down from the autumn canopy.
Last edited November 17, 2023 4:51 am
Nov 17, 2023 2:27 pm
Make a Lore Roll. I believe a Skald has a boon. Target number is 4
Nov 17, 2023 3:45 pm
Grimbly wrinkles his nose at the stench of forest decay and the loamy smell of fungus as he tries to discern the path or any path for that matter.

"Hmmm. I knew it was going to be hard to find the way. I don't suppose you could be persuaded to stay with us, guide, or failing that, the owl could point the way? Their eyes are sharper to be sure."

To Kendral he says in his scratchy voice, "I do not share your optimism and as to singing, well Belvedere, I am told my voice can wake the dead so I best not even try."
[ +- ] Sloooow Walk

KCC

Nov 18, 2023 6:12 am
"Bah! It escapes me at the moment!" the skald says, after taking a long while to wrack his brain.

"Its likely to come to me at the most inopportune time! Isn’t that always the way?" he says, continuing to him along to his tune.

"You have the voice of a necromancer, Grimbly! The very envy of all the wizards in all the towers!" he quips, with a triumphant laugh.

"I suppose you’ve heard the ditty about brave Sir Balbao? Played in every tavern across the territories!"

He starts to strum:

"Rising up, back on the street…" he sings, with dramatic panache!
Nov 18, 2023 3:36 pm
Xaka frowns at the noise, but then again, they aren't hunting. "I don't mind you chasing the deer away, but I hope that ruckus doesn't draw a troll, or a herd of rampaging centaurs." She thinks about the ensuing fight. "Actually, maybe sing louder."

KCC

Nov 19, 2023 8:46 am
"And a rabble rouser!" Belvedere adds to his previous remarks on Xaka’s charcater!

"Just… Just don’t let the Centaurs hear you calling them a herd, eh? This old skald seems to remember something about the Centaurs thinking it speaks "more to their bestial nature", or some notion like that.

They prefer a Kingdom of Centaurs, if you’ll believe it! Though, if it’s a fight you want, a herd shall suffice…"


Rolls

Lore Roll - (2d6)

(46) = 10

The Guide

Skyharpy Inactive for 7 months

Nov 19, 2023 2:31 pm
The Guide
The guide just shakes his head a little, amused.

Hawkwind does not join the party. If anyone asks, the Guide will answer that he left the Mansion earlier than the party and seemed to be in a hurry. Unless you state otherwise, I'm assuming that all of you are entering the forest to continue the adventure, slow motion walking into the forest with Xaka's tune playing in the background, lol
OOC:
Hawkwind's player had to bow out due to work related issues. I'm going to leave his character here in case he changes his mind but for now...game on!
Nov 19, 2023 3:10 pm
The Action Begins

You travel, following the ancient road. With keen eyes, observant senses, small rays of sunlight peeking through cracks in the canopy, and ancient ruins here and there, you have no difficulties discerning the old rocks of the road from the forest floor. Lady Fortune must be with you for you didn’t run into anything truly threatening or dangerous. You are about half an hour, approximately, from the first crop of trees on the map.

The weather is mild
The time is Dusk, the sun will disappear in about an hour
Nov 19, 2023 9:26 pm
Xaka stops and examines the horseshoe. "We we following others sent before us, I wonder? If so, they could be trying to steal the treasures!" She gets up, suddenly angry, then rushes over and knocks twice (gently) on Kendral's bow stave.
Nov 19, 2023 11:03 pm
Kendral turns to Xaka when she knocks on his bow and acknowledges her concern. "I hope that isn't the case."

"Moonshadow may be able to follow the tracks for us and warn if they lead to any active danger," Kendral says. He then calls up into the canopy "Moonshadow, Perch!" When (if) the owl comes Kendral lets him land on his raised arm. He kneels and touches the dried tracks with his other hand. "Scout and Warn," he commands the owl.

Seck sent a note to Windyridge
Last edited November 19, 2023 11:07 pm

KCC

Nov 20, 2023 10:14 am
"Is there blood?" Belvedere asks, with a gasp; always one for a dramatic turn or flair. "Perhaps the beasts of this wood have filled their bellies already tonight and we might be left alone?"
Nov 20, 2023 4:04 pm
"I have not, and thanks for the compliment, Belvedere, I think," Grimbly replies. "I'm not one for taverns much and ditties."

Later as dusk threatens Grimbly is glad that an owl is among their party. "I wish Moonshadow luck, for where our eyes are useless in the dark of the night, your owl will surely be an asset."

As for being prey to the night animals, Grimbly replies with a snort, "I wouldn't be too tasty being mostly of muscle and sinew."

Last edited November 20, 2023 4:05 pm

KCC

Nov 20, 2023 11:21 pm
"Oh, dreadful! So tough, and awfully hard to chew through." he starts up. "Though, that would give the rest of us more time to make good our escape!" he says to the others with a wink and good natured chuckle.

"Pray we don’t have to slow them down with so noble a sacrifice, Grimbly!"
Last edited November 20, 2023 11:21 pm
Nov 22, 2023 2:39 pm
While you're discussing the implications of your new findings, Moonshadow returns from his scouting mission with a tudor in his beak. He flies and drops it at the feet of Kendral. Its moldy and frayed but still intact. It's made of a fine material, probably the hat of a wealthy gentleman or perhaps even a noble. Moonshadow hoots, proud of his finding and hoping his master is pleased. He wasn't gone long so wherever this came from is nearby. He flew from the direction there road is leading.

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/xnQAAOSwjchdlP2F/s-l400.jpg

Weather: mild with scattered clouds
Time: Dusk approaching twilight
Nov 22, 2023 3:35 pm
"Indeed, tough as nails I am and any foes we encounter best realize it. But what's this your clever owl has found?"

Grimbly examines the cap from where he stands, allowing Belvedere to pick it up if he so chooses.

"Has someone near fallen foul of a bandit or two? This bodes ill for us already. He can't be far. Yet dark is almost upon us. Shall we follow or leave him or them to their fate and make camp?"

Suddenly Grimbly notices that his crowbar is glowing. "Oh. My crowbar. What has happened to it?"
Last edited November 22, 2023 8:44 pm
Nov 23, 2023 12:07 am
Xaka has no time for hats, as it doesn't look like it's repairable. "Bandits, that would be expected. What lonely forest road doesn't attract ruffians and thugs?"

When the crowbar begins glowing, she narrows her eyes. "Is it supposed to do that? Does it detect hats?"

KCC

Nov 23, 2023 10:26 am
"Oh, surely it would provide an opportunity for some practice before we reach all that bother at the Castle!

A few bandits against us, the Heroes of… well, I’ll think of a snappy title before long! Hardly a contest!

And perhaps a coin and a bottle of something for our efforts from the gentleman!"
he says with the wiggle of an eyebrow!
Nov 24, 2023 10:57 pm
The giant owl hoots a few times, hops around his finding, then flies up into a tree; proud of his accomplishment; leaving the hat at the beastmaster's feet. Suddenly you know why the crowbar is glowing. You notice your own weapons (minus Belvedere) are glowing in a similar fashion. It means that undead are in the vicinity. The glow is faint so there is still some distance between you and whatever unnatural creature is provoking your weapon
Nov 25, 2023 5:14 pm
"Practice it may not be. Defending ourselves from the undead sounds more serious than practice I'm afraid. Our glowing weapons could signify more than one of them. Let's hope we are up to the task! Do we have a plan? We have some time before we clash."
Nov 25, 2023 6:20 pm
"A fray! I'm entirely in favor of this practice. Good job, Moonshadow!"

She continues, in full investigator mode. "And, this must be the hat from the leader of the undead. He is likely kerfuddled by now, so what better opportunity to strike."
Nov 26, 2023 1:44 am
"Plan Grimbly? How often have we had a developed one of those? Well...practice or not, this will certainly be a test of our newly enchanted weapons. Ready to write your first verse Belvedere?" says Kendral.

"Yes, nice work Moonshadow..." repeats the elf before continuing to Xaka "aww...he likes when you give him praise."

He looks back up where the bird circled. "I say let's follow Moonshadow's lead and try to ambush the undead before they can do the same to us."
Last edited November 26, 2023 1:46 am
Nov 26, 2023 3:38 am
Grimbly examines his enchanted crowbar again. Its glow has him almost hypnotized. Snapping out of it he wonders about the hat.

"It could be that the hat belongs to a victim, Xaka. Hopefully not." To Kendral he nods enthusiastically. "Well Kendral, it looks like we now have a plan and I heartily approve! Lead on Moonshadow. We will be right behind you."

KCC

Nov 26, 2023 9:33 am
"Once four did through the woods trod,
All armed, save but one left clutching his rod…"


Belvedere starts up with a smile and a wink, flitting the magical wand about dramatically!
Last edited November 26, 2023 9:34 am
Nov 26, 2023 1:03 pm
As you continue, stealthy and battle ready, you find a small clearing and a tree that stands out from the rest of them. Its trunk is broad and its branches are sturdy. It's ideal for a hanging tree and that is clear by the body that is indeed hanging in the tree by a rope and noose. Moonshadow sits on the highest branch that can support him; more interested in a small flock of bats fluttering about. Even at this distance you can see that the corpse is dressed in fine, yet frayed, robes. The fabric matches the tudor in color and texter. The air is still yet your weapons glow somewhat brighter than before.

The weather is cool and partly cloudy
It is dusk
The tree in question is considered far range
The road bends around the tree, matching the map

https://64.media.tumblr.com/32c7031568a680601be0c352e1826690/tumblr_mg2rtvGiHm1r8xssuo1_1280.jpg
Nov 26, 2023 4:07 pm
"He might be the undead. I've never heard of the dead hanging someone, but maybe I should knock on wood just to be sure." She heads for the big tree, to knock on it and shake the omen of bad luck. She looks at the others, hoping they'll back her if a horde of the restless dead swarms her. She better knock twice.
Nov 26, 2023 4:10 pm
"Ugh. I am sad to say I was right. The hat belongs to that poor unfortunate hanging from the tree, yonder."

Grimbly notices the crowbar glowing ever brighter, clutches it more tightly in his palm, and calls out, "Who is out there? I demand you show yourself!"
Nov 26, 2023 4:47 pm
"So impulsive," Kendral quietly sighs but nonetheless closely follows Xaka to watch her back, readying an arrow along his brightly glowing blue-green bow string.

Upon Grimbly's words Kendral draws back the bow string and examines upward toward the hanging figure and beyond into the tree, pointing the arrow in the directions he looks.
Last edited November 26, 2023 4:50 pm
Nov 27, 2023 10:33 pm
As you approach the tree you see that the corpse is in its last phase of decay and a sign hangs on its neck that reads:
Quote:
His Crime is Greed
OOC:
Xakra and Kendral see this; they are at medium range.

KCC

Nov 28, 2023 6:32 am
Once satisfied that the others hadn’t been pounced upon, Belvedere joins the others up by the tree.

He pokes the body with the end of his rapier.

"Ghastly, I know! But we might as well see if this chap is the source of all the lights."

He prods a few more times, to really jolt the thing awake, if such a thing was going to happen!
Nov 28, 2023 3:05 pm
The Hangman's Tree

As if in response to the tampering of the body and the tree itself, a mist blows in causing the entire world to look as if it's in a perpetual haze. It isn’t a natural mist, it brings a tingling sensation that causes the hairs on the back of your neck to stand. Your weapons are glowing brightly in contrast to the dull landscape.

A young man in fine clothes identical to the ones on the corpse stands under the body; pompous with his hands folded in front of him that make him appear educated and also non-threatening. Where he came from, you didn’t see; it’s like he just materialized. Except for his unnaturally pale skin, sunken black eyes, and a noose tightly tied around his neck that tethers him to the tree; he would appear completely normal.
Moonshadow makes noises that Kendral recognizes as excitement or distress. He’s not looking down, he’s looking at something obscured by the mist in the woods; a group of men-at-arms with assorted weapons standing still in the wood a distance away making no threatening moves.




https://i.imgur.com/BZfOISg.jpg
Nov 28, 2023 3:08 pm
"Prodding my body or the tree is fruitless, Travelers" The young man informs you in a hallow voice. "And don't worry about them" He gestures foppishly towards the band of skeletal men-at-arms who are watching you from a distance "They failed to protect me in life; now they serve me in death."
OOC:
The skald and rascal may make a knowledge roll; tn 3
Nov 28, 2023 4:03 pm
"Huh?" The rascal looks up at the tree, then down at the mirror image of the hanging noble, if that's what these were.

"I've never seen the like," he says as observes the mist rolling in and looks toward the band of armed skeletons, then back at the twins.

"Why are there two of you? What's the meaning of all this? I suppose you'll be wanting your hat back?"

Rolls

Knowledge TN3 - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Nov 28, 2023 4:08 pm
Xaka turns around and calls back (unconcerned for any stealth), "It says, 'His crime is greed!'

She checks her spear glow indication, but does not touch the body. "It's been hear a while, I'm surprised the neck hasn't rotted apart yet."

When the skeletons appear, Xaka is ready to charge, but his words tell her there is some mystery. Still, she readies herself to intercept the bony dead.
Last edited November 28, 2023 4:10 pm

KCC

Nov 29, 2023 3:07 am
OOC:
What knowest the Skald?
"Oh, but you must have heard stories about this kind of thing?" Belvedere asks, incredulous at the rascal.

"We aren’t standing upon a crossroads, are we?" he says, looking about, as if to double check!

"It is marvelous, but nothing a skald such as myself hasn’t heard tell of in many a tavern across the land. Now, give me but a moment to recall the details. There was wine involved, you see!"

Last edited November 29, 2023 3:09 am

Rolls

2d6

(63) = 9

Nov 29, 2023 3:24 am
"Greed! Yes! I remember now! I heard something about a tax collector of the King's disappearing in the Barony, but I don't know anything more. The crime ... greed ... jogged my memory, you see."

Gazing at the lords, then at Belvedere, Grimbly adds, "Now Belvedere, no need to get snippy."
Nov 29, 2023 4:07 am
Kendral notes Grimbly's recollection and is thankful for his insight. Hoping Belvedere recalls more but thinking it prudent to seize the opportunity to question this undead noble tax collector, he addresses young man. "From your account I understand why your guards linger by your body, my lord, and I truly appreciate that you keep them a bay, but why do you yourself linger here?"
Nov 29, 2023 6:36 pm
He holds up his hand and flitters it a bit. In response the dead soldiers step back a few paces and sheath their weapons. He then gestures towards the hanging body
"I was murdered; there was no trial. My need for Justice keeps me here, Travelers."
He looks a bit thoughtful as he speaks
"I have a proposition for you. A very simple favor in which you will be handsomely compensated. Are you interested? Will you at least hear my proposal?"
Although he is proud there is a hint of pleading in his voice

Nov 29, 2023 6:43 pm
"I will listen to your proposal as there is no harm in it." Grimbly notes the pleading tone and decides that will help in negotiating their rewards.
Nov 30, 2023 4:11 am
Xaka crosses her arms, which is hard with a spear but she is determined. She mutters, "Speaking with the dead. This can't be lucky," but doesn't interfere.

KCC

Dec 1, 2023 10:15 am
"But the crime of greed…" Belvedere speaks, interrupting any proposition for a moment. "What did your murderers mean by that? Was something amiss, or were they one of those dreadful clans who believe that the King’s taxation constitutes theft? A troublesome sort."

Clans that Belvedere could sympathize with, in truth. What man didn’t enjoy a few extra coins in his pocket? After all, it was him, and not the King, that had played the lyre that had earned the coin…
Dec 1, 2023 7:13 pm
Compelled to tell the truth the Dead Lord answers the charge "It is true, I am guilty of defalcation but.." His index pointed upwards for emphasis "I never cheated My Sovereign of what he was owed, unlike my murderers whom I am sure find ways of penny pinching and cheating the Court of its dues!" The dead may tell the truth but are still subject to bias. "I cannot prove it but I'd wager the thugs that hung me here were working on the behalf of the Gentry Club."This said with intensity.

"No sense in dragging you into all this political mess."calming a bit."What I ask of you is simple. Swear by the Exalted One that you will get word to His Majesty the location and condition of my body and in return I will tell you where I hid my Lock-Box."

Note
A little Lore: He's asking you to take an Oath to a local god which is commonly believed to invite a curse if intentionally dismissed. The Lock Box is a treasure box where the collected taxes are stored. A lot of treasure. The Gentry Club is the local Merchant's Guild
Dec 1, 2023 7:31 pm
"What exactly is in your lockbox, for this is very relevant information, is it not? Then we could decide whether delivering your location to the King is worthwhile. What would you offer as proof that what you say resides in the box, truly does?"

Grimbly did not trust the dead lord, not even a little bit.
Dec 3, 2023 9:57 pm
The spectral lord explains what the lock-box is (see note)

"You may check the box first. If there is not enough coin in it to make you a wealthy person then you're not obliged to keep your end of the bargain. You will find a key in a hidden pocket within my robe." He gestures towards his hanging body.

"Now, I know you have other priorities. So, if you can send word to the King of my demise and my body's location before the first snowfall, then you will have completed your part of our pact. So..."His gaze lingers a bit on each of you "are you ready to take the Oath? As soon as you all agree, then we will recite the words of the bond together and I'll reveal the box's hidden location."
OOC:
In this game that's over a month away.
Dec 4, 2023 1:44 am
Kendral is very apprehensive to take such an oath and hastily enact a ritual bond with an undead lord. He looks around at his companions faces to gauge their feelings on the matter. Also Kendral is fearful that the wrong answer to this lord may result in his skeletal minions advancing on them. Kendral decides to bide time by inquiring about information regarding the job they have already have from the Baron.

"Speaking of other priorities, much could happen between now and first snow, and should we take on this responsibility you present us, we would want to be able to see it through. Tell me, my lord, do you know of the Castle of the Fallen Countess and what lurks there?"
Last edited December 4, 2023 1:50 am

KCC

Dec 4, 2023 2:59 am
"We may see the box first to satisfy our concerns; or we must swear the oath first to be shown the box?" Belvedere says, with an a-ha air, as if he had uncovered the lord’s ruse.

"Which is it, specter? And speak true, or the King will hear a great deal more than just the location of your resting place!"
Dec 4, 2023 10:10 am
In the pregnant silence, as the group awaits the spirit's response, a clinkity-clanking sound is heard coming from the path you've recently taken. It's faint at first, but growing louder, quickly followed by the tromping of fast falling feet getting ever nearer and nearer...

A moment later, a girl bursts into the clearing from the old road, red-faced and breathing heavily. Her face erupts into a bright smile as she sees you, then staggers to a halt in the middle of the clearing, hands on knees and panting. Without looking up, she waves a hand. "I'm ok.... Whew.... Boy, you made... good time.... I guess that's what...." This is followed by more heavy breathing and waving. "Experienced adventurers do, huh? But I guess... I made pretty good time too, since... I left a few hours after you."

She raises her head and gives a weak but warm smile, and you recognize her as Katie Ploshkin, one of the last people you'd expect to see in a place like this. Her dark hair is a muss, and she's still wearing her 'unique' hat (which she proudly informs whomever will listen that she designed and haberdashed herself), albeit more than a little askew. Her clothing and pack are similarly unusual, no doubt also Ploshkin originals, festooned with a myriad of pockets and pouches and buttons (many mismatched, and a few of them not seeming to serve any functional purpose).

After a moment or two, she stands up to her full 5 foot 2 and 1/4 inch height and dusts her hands off on her knees, surveying the scene. Her eyes travel from the standing spirit to the hanged body and back several times before she simply says, "Huh."
Last edited December 4, 2023 12:45 pm
Dec 4, 2023 5:54 pm
"We will check the box first and only then will we swear an oath. Do we seem buffoons to you? This is only fair to us and now I will take that key."

Grimbly approaches the spirit and the hanging body and realizes that he would probably need to sit atop the shoulders of one of the others to reach the pockets of the hanging body. As he looks to the others for help he sees Katie arrive, flustered and out of breath.

"What brings you here, Katie? Feeling adventurous are you?"
Dec 4, 2023 6:05 pm
Xaka offers to shoulder the burden of Grimbly.

Seeing Katie she waves a little, glad another shorter person has joined them.
Dec 4, 2023 8:39 pm
The familiar and the unfamiliar all come crashing together in a split second in Katie's mind, a cognitive dissonance making the gears turn at lightning speed, only to find they have no teeth to gain purchase. Quietly she murmurs, "Oh, this is interesting...." and edges towards the nearest familiar friendly face that is the farthest from the spirit, watching the unfolding dialog intensely.

It takes a moment for her to register Grimbly's query, but eventually it penetrates the veil of all the novelty and she comes to herself. She flashes Grimbly a mischevous grin and says quietly, eyes still glued to the proceedings, "I'm joining your relic hunting expedition. I spoke with the Baron, and after a bit of convincing - well, quite a lot really - he sent me along to join you. Lucky for me I know my way around the wilds in these parts, and that the 'ancient path' is still pretty clear. If you're looking for it," she adds with a bit of a wink.

Nodding to the hanging figure and then the spirit, she says somewhat rhetorically, "That's him, isn't it? Interesting...."
Last edited December 4, 2023 8:43 pm
Dec 5, 2023 4:44 am
"Yes. Same guy. You’re just in time Katie, we haven’t even recited the words of a ritual oath bond with this undead lord yet or been properly introduced to his skeletal minions," says Kendral sarcastically as he stands next to Xaka ready to offer another shoulder and support arm for Grimbly’s brash inclination to get the key off the corpse.

He then whispers to Grimbly, "Grimbly, maybe we should let the lord tell us a bit more about the terms of this oath before we make any quick decisions. The key alone wouldn’t let us know of the lock-box’s location anyway."
Last edited December 5, 2023 4:50 am

KCC

Dec 5, 2023 8:06 am
"Oh, goodness. All that racket. Surely a skeletal horseman come to his Lord’s si…" Belvedere stops up short as he turns towards the sound and sees the young Ms. Ploshkin.

He makes a performance of harrumphing in the clearing at her arrival:

"There really is so much left to teach this one! You’ll all have to forgive me! If you are to be late…" he says, directing the words to Katie "… then I simply have to insist that you be fashionably late, yes? Like myself." he says, with a mischievous bow.

"I turned up in perfect, practiced lateness. Red cheeks and ready for business!"
Dec 5, 2023 3:40 pm
In response to the party’s actions the Dead Lord dematerializes, blending into the foggy background. In the distance from the undead troop you hear the clanks and grates of metal as weapons are unsheathed. From behind the troop a new figure appears. It's a humanoid phantasm wearing all black with a hood that hides its face in darkness. From the way it's holding its hands one might guess it’s a sorcerer of some type.

"My patience is running thin."The hooded figure warns in the same hollow voice of the Dead Lord. "Are you knaves or knights?"
A glowing skeletal hand materializes near Belvedere and points directly at him when these words are spoken. "You, skald, will give me your party’s final answer. I’ll give you a few moments to discuss it among yourselves, I’ve always had the reputation as a man of reason."
OOC:
Dec 5, 2023 5:07 pm
Upon the wraith’s prompt Kendal turns to huddle with his companions and states his opinion, "On this specter's terms...which include us having absolutely NO idea what dark magic might bind us in the future--I vote we find a way to get clear of this situation that does not include an oath to this being. Some money for our souls doesn't sound like such a good deal to me. We're resourceful enough to find fortune other, less binding, ways."
Last edited December 5, 2023 5:08 pm
Dec 5, 2023 9:07 pm
Katie's eyes widen at the sudden turn of events, her shock all the more severe as she hadn't noticed the skeletal horde before. A quiet 'eep' escapes her lips before she says quietly to Kendral and the rest of the group (never once taking her eyes off the undead), "I'm with you. This suddenly got more interesting, but not in a good kind of interesting way - the kind I could do without. Too bad we don't have a torch and some salt or we could burn the body...," she muses, voice trailing off.

As she speaks, she rummages in one of her many her belt pouches and finds one of the vials of Holy Water, just in case.
Last edited December 5, 2023 9:09 pm
Dec 5, 2023 9:57 pm
"I believe so Katie. You're right on time."As he turns back to the hanging figure, carefully balancing on Xaka's shoulders, he whispers to Kendral, "Too late, I'm committed."

Reaching for the pocket, he stops in midair. Empty air as it happens. "Aw hell, I messed up," Grimbly mutters under his breath as he sees the dead lord disintegrate into a cloud of dust followed by the unwelcome clanging of weapons being drawn. He hustles down from Xaka's shoulders and prepares to do battle.
Dec 6, 2023 12:01 am
"Well...that," refering the vial of holy water she pulled from her pouch, "may become useful any moment Katie."
Last edited December 6, 2023 4:28 am
Dec 6, 2023 12:53 am
Xaka lowers Grimbly, and twirls her spear. "Oh good, a fray. I claim to have entirely drifted away for a moment, thinking of that time I smashed the skull of an undead, er, phantasm guy."

KCC

Dec 6, 2023 12:14 pm
Belvedere spins on his heel, breaking from the huddle. He fixes himself as he approaches the specter.

"We’ve put our heads together and found ourselves sorely lacking on knightly titles.

While Ms. Ploshkin here seems to recall that her uncle’s uncle’s brother’s step-sibling once may have held a lord’s title, the connection seems rather… tenuous.

I fear we are but knaves. A dreadfully dangerous breed of scoundrel, too! A ghastly crew, if ever there was one!"
Dec 6, 2023 2:31 pm
The Skeleton warriors interpose themselves between Belvedere and their master.The woods become more obscure from the mist and total night seems to drop suddenly making it difficult for humans to see

"So, nae it is." His tone reveals his agitation,
OOC:
Belvedere, make a social-interaction roll, DC5 ,please. If its a fail let me know if you're using karma
[ +- ] Failure
https://media4.giphy.com/media/fqhuGEu8KfVFkPEMwe/giphy.gif

https://t3.ftcdn.net/jpg/05/39/84/78/360_F_539847866_9Xv6jqBK7Jh3V1XdqjwIriviswfScL16.jpg
Dec 6, 2023 3:58 pm
"Excellent work Belvedere! You got this! Keep him talking and confused. We got your back," whispers Kendal to the scald—hopefully under the earshot of the wraith—as he slips an arrow into his glowing bow.
OOC:
He is attempting to boost Belvedere’s resolve and inspiration…offering up a karma point to his efforts.
[ +- ] Inspiring

KCC

Dec 6, 2023 9:57 pm
OOC:
Dandy: Boon to social encounters.
OOC:
Hero Dice Reroll!
Last edited December 6, 2023 9:58 pm

Rolls

2d6

(21) = 3

Hero Dice - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Dec 7, 2023 1:51 pm
There is a tense moment as the Wraith Lord processes Belvedere's words. Then, the skeletal warriors lower their weapons and fade away. The Wraith takes the form of the Lord once again. The apparition bows his head, resigned, then also fades away like the undead troop.

The haze lifts and above the canopy you can see twinkling stars on a periwinkle night sky. The night creatures begin making noises again as the haze disperses with the gruesomes

It is Twilight.
Luna Violacium is almost full giving the background light a purple hue. Those with darkvision see almost as well as daylight but for humans its quite dark.
The sky is clear.
The weather is mild with a distinct chill
The weapons are back to normal


https://i.pinimg.com/474x/cb/2c/8d/cb2c8d1220842c72e0214d7bf90b4ac1.jpg
Dec 7, 2023 7:10 pm
"Well that was interesting. Well done Belvedere. You saved us from a nasty mess. I don't suppose there is any sign of that box?" Grimbly asks as he looks around the area by the hanging tree.

"We should build a fire and set up a watch. I can take the first one if there are no objections."
OOC:
All you can find in the dark is gnarly roots. You barely avoid stumping your toe.

KCC

Dec 8, 2023 10:36 am
"Just good sense, isn’t it? I suspect that one will select his words more carefully next time. And his prey…"

With that he clears his throat.

"You’ll hear no objection raised from me, dear Grimbly. I think I’ve done rather well for one day.

Perhaps one of you has a tipple on-hand? Wine, preferably. Red, preferably. But these things are negotiable!"
Dec 8, 2023 11:36 am
Looks back up at the hanging figure. "I'm still kinda thinking burning the body or something wouldn't be a bad idea. The next people through here might not be so lucky - err, I mean, clever and persuasive - as we were."
Dec 8, 2023 3:34 pm
"Not a bad idea Katie. Hopefully, that won't release a new horror."

Grimbly eyes the ground for any kind of kindling to start a fire. A tipple is it, Belvedere? I wish I had something of that nature but alas, I do not."
Last edited December 8, 2023 3:35 pm

KCC

Dec 9, 2023 3:19 am
"Oh, you’re hoping to set it alight now?" Belvedere asks, with a rhetorical air.

"Wouldnt that leave an awful smell for us to sleep with? And gods know what ghastly creatures will be lured by the smell of cooking meat." his face scrunches up as he speaks.

"Better to light it when we depart tomorrow, I’d have thought!"
Dec 9, 2023 3:48 am
"I agree that we should not set it on fire until we depart. If a new horror is released from it, we'll hopefully be on our way by the time it emerges. Although, I am not claiming to understand exactly how these things work."

"No objections to you taking first watch Grimbly. Then I'll take second and I'll instruct Moonshadow to warn us warn us of danger through the night."

Before he will try to get rest Kendral will call to Moonshadow and spend some time with his feathered companion before commanding the bird to 'Warn'.
Dec 9, 2023 4:08 am
"Alright then. A fire tomorrow it will be." Grimbly grumbles a bit before he starts looking for a good spot to start his watch.

"I'll walk the perimeter and if Kendral will allow, Moonshadow's help. The rest of you can sleep well knowing you're in safe hands and talons. I'll wake you for second watch then, Kendrall."
Dec 9, 2023 4:11 am
Xaka leans against the tree, listening to the others chatter. "How much wood did we need for that? Three trees worth?"

She looks around for dead fall she can drag over, then gathers what she thinks is needed.
Dec 9, 2023 2:08 pm
OOC:
For clarification; you're buiding a campfire for the night but a separate pyre for the morning?
Dec 9, 2023 4:31 pm
OOC:
Yes. I think so if we all agree?
Dec 9, 2023 4:31 pm
OOC:
That's my take on the plan.
Dec 9, 2023 5:08 pm
OOC:
That sounds right.
Last edited December 9, 2023 5:09 pm
Dec 9, 2023 10:32 pm
Thanks to the mild weather and the warm fire the party ges a well deserved rest. In the morning, you set the body on fire on a makeshift pyre and it burns without a hitch. It is dawn and Moonshadow sings his morning song. He got in his nap during Kendral's watch, confident that his humanoid companion keeps him safe.
OOC:
After the body burns is it a safe bet you pack up and continue on the quest? Also, if you watched the body burn to its completion you may make make a perception/awareness roll;DC4. This is not something the owl can help with.
https://media1.giphy.com/media/QkqRmtkDhXCeI/giphy.gif

KCC

Dec 9, 2023 11:40 pm
OOC:
I’d say that Belvedere didn’t hang around to watch the body burn. Though, I know Grimbly was hoping to do a little searching for the box. Maybe that takes up our time?
Dec 10, 2023 12:07 am
Katie watches on as the flames consume the the dead man's body, wondering if what she had heard about releasing haunting spirits were actually true and not just tall tales.
OOC:
Adding 1 Karma to succeed.
Last edited December 10, 2023 12:10 am

Rolls

Perception DC4+ - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Dec 10, 2023 12:19 am
Kendral doesn't stay around to watch the fire. Instead he scouts the area around the party's camp a bit for any more signs of living creatures passing through here at any prior point....well, he would not ignore any signs of the dead either.
Last edited December 10, 2023 12:19 am
Dec 10, 2023 2:45 am
Xaka watches the fire too. "So, Katie. You burn bodies often?"

Qralloq sent a note to Qralloq

Rolls

Watch - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Dec 10, 2023 2:46 am
Grimbly likes fires, even if it's to burn something otherworldly. While he watches the body being consumed along with Katie, he wonders about the man's past life and what led to his ultimate predicament.

"I'd still like to see if we can find that box before we head out."
[ +- ] Lucilla’s Potion of Perfection
OOC:
I'd like to use my potion to gain advantage for the roll.
Crits are only for combat.

Rolls

Perception - (2d6H1)

(63) = 6

Confirmed Crit! - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Dec 10, 2023 1:24 pm
It takes a moment for Xaka's words to register. "Hmm? Oh, no," she replies, laughing a little self-consciously. "It was one of those things the tinker said that just kind of stuck with me. He was full of all sorts of stories and tales. A lot of them seemed a little... imaginative. But then I never ran into an undead sorceror before, or whatever he was, so.... Better safe than sorry, right?" She gives a small shrug and turns her eyes back to burning remains, not quite sure whether she's expecting to see something happen or not.
Last edited December 10, 2023 1:25 pm
Dec 10, 2023 1:41 pm
Kendral finds that all the humanoid and horse tracks head back to the township from which you came from. No such tracks on the second part of the trek. Grimbly and Katie see the key that the spirit spoke of among the ashes, hot but undamaged. Grimbly, however, sees it first and is closer to it. No lockbox is anywhere to be found.

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/e9/20/91/e92091eeac213fe2ddade05b123adbbd.jpg
Dec 10, 2023 3:24 pm
"Oh, what's this?" Grimbly kicks away some ashes and uncovers the key. Realizing it must still be hot he finds a stick and pokes it free to cool in the air.

"It might not be the box but it's the key to it, I'll wager!" He will pick the key up once it's cool enough to do so.
Dec 10, 2023 3:46 pm
Xaka looks up and points at the smoke escaping through the forest canopy. "This isnt safe by a long shot. We have to move."
Dec 10, 2023 5:16 pm
"But the box! Shouldn't we try and find it especially since I have the key? We had a campfire all night. No one came to harass us and still have not come."

KCC

Dec 11, 2023 12:33 am
"Poor Grimbly can’t see the forest for the trees." Belvedere quips to Kendral, as they wait a ways ahead.

"VAST RICHES AWAIT!" he bellows back down the road as Grimbly roots around for the box.
Dec 11, 2023 4:05 am
"Come on then, Xaka. Katie, you too. Let's make haste and catch up to Belvedere who will bite his tongue when I tell him what the key just told me."

Grimby secretes the key in a safe inside pocket and hurries along away from the fire.
Last edited December 11, 2023 4:06 am
Dec 11, 2023 4:33 am
Kendral, heading back from scouting, sees that his companions are on the move and joins them.

"Follow," he says to Moonshadow, who had just landed on a limb above Kendral and then takes back to flight on Kendral's command.
Last edited December 11, 2023 4:34 am
Dec 11, 2023 6:12 am
The forest is denser this leg of the trip as you walk deeper into the forest. A chill wind clears the forest floor of the fallen leaves to reveal the ancient stony pass as if a wood spirit aids you. You spot a few small trees that look like they have human faces carved on them. If you reference the map you figure you’re near the second clump of trees.

It is midday.
Small clouds blow past and the sun finds many cracks in the canopy.
The wind is chill but mild.

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/26/9f/07/269f0769e47e0a7879f2f1d8592c009b.jpg

KCC

Dec 11, 2023 10:22 am
"A touch more inviting than the last face that loomed out as us from a tree, wouldn’t you say?" Belvedere remarks, as he mulls over the faces, his fist resting below his chin.

"Theres a tale about these trees, you know?…"

Last edited December 11, 2023 10:23 am

Rolls

Tree Lore! - (2d6)

(26) = 8

Dec 11, 2023 2:00 pm
As Belevedere speaks, Kendral stares intently into a face on a tree. He searches the recesses of his mind and tries to recall the tales and teachings he learned as a youth with his forest-elf people.

Rolls

Kendral: Memory Search - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Dec 11, 2023 3:47 pm
Xaka narrows her eyes and shifts her weight. She refuses to look directly at the tree face. "Old stories are true likely as not. Bad luck to face the frozen faces. They see you."
Dec 11, 2023 4:19 pm
Kendral remembers and steps back from the tree.

"We must be cautious here. I remember tales the forest elf elders told me as a youth about a creature that beguiles human males, seduces them, then as the humans gets older they grow bored with them and turn them into trees. They have many names; forest maidens, wood nymphs, but among they eldar they are known as the Dryad. If it is Dryad, they'll have no use for me, Xaka, Katie. But that could even put the three of us in more danger."
Dec 11, 2023 9:10 pm
"Agreed and what? Is there? Well go on, let's hear it. I get the feeling that we are walking into something less than ideal shortly," he says to Belvedere. But then Kendrall relates the tales while Grimbly anxiously fingers the key in his pocket ... waiting.
Last edited December 11, 2023 9:12 pm

KCC

Dec 11, 2023 10:31 pm
"Our friend here desperately lacks some of the romantic flair that a skald might use in such a tale!

Grimbly, you could be just the thing they’re after! A young, strapping man! You’d live a life of love that humble skalds, such as yours truly, would sing of.

And then, when age grips you, as it does us all well… this could be you. But to prolong the love, they say!

I’d consider it myself, were my tastes not so mundanely humane. Now, should I sing a song to the dryads on your behalf, Grimbly?"
Dec 11, 2023 11:28 pm
Grimbly grumbles, "You are an annoying thing similar to a fly on the neck of a horse, but yes, by all means, sing!"

Kendrall does make Grimbly think though. What if the key is beguiling him?
Dec 12, 2023 1:44 am
Suddenly, you hear shrieking and chaos in the canopy. Moonshadow finds himself in a fight for his life! Two small birds of prey are harassing him, diving. He is larger and more powerful but they are quick and aggressive.

2 birds of prey, BP1 and BP2 (far range)

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSU7ApMJi3bY4Vf95a15-XXTECuzVeB4lm1CA&usqp=CAU
[ +- ] Bird of Prey
OOC:
Yep, this is combat. Far Range means a weapon like a long bow can still reach but not much else. Players go first
Dec 12, 2023 5:30 am
Kendral is just about to pipe in, when he hears the shrieks and instantly recognizes Moonshadow's defiant hiss. He quickly looks up to see the conflict. His heart drops and he draws his bow and fires a shot at the attackers.
OOC:
Oops I confused this with the Karma in the Earthdawn game I'm in. Did that wrong. Ignore the first roll.
OOC:
Ignoring the mistaken initial roll, it looks like I got a 6 and a 2. The 6 landed one strike and allowed me to roll again. The next roll was another 6, landing a strike and allowing me to roll again. Finally a rolled a 1. No strike there and no crit for another roll. So in total Kendral landed two strikes and didn't even need to use Karma?? Is this correct?
Last edited December 12, 2023 5:47 am

Rolls

Kendral: Bow Attack (Trained +1d6, +1d6 Karma - (3d6)

(641) = 11

Kendral: Bow Attack (Trained +1d6) - (2d6)

(62) = 8

Kendral: Bow Attack (Confirm the Crit) - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Kendral: Bow Attack (Confirm the Crit Again!) - (1d6)

(1) = 1

KCC

Dec 12, 2023 1:00 pm
"Ahem… yes, well it is customary to toss a coin to the skald on such occasions; but we can overlook it this onc…" and then his gaze is drawn skyward as the squawks break out.
Dec 13, 2023 1:20 am
"Tell your bird to fly here." She gestures at the area just beyond the tip of her soear. "Then we have hawk fondue."
Dec 13, 2023 2:57 am
Grimbly can't help but laugh at Xaka. That was a funny remark despite their impending battle. It said something of her if she could joke at a time like this.

"I've never had hawk fondue. I bet it's tasty. But look sharp. We have company!"

The man knows that his crowbar won't work at the moment but he can attempt to cast one of his spells, being a hedge wizard as he is.
[ +- ] Prism of Char
OOC:
I realized after I rolled that I should have stated my intention, let the GM roll and then decided on the spell level and rolled, if I've got that right?
OOC:
The spell is a success, the scroll vaporizes
Last edited December 13, 2023 3:02 am

Rolls

Level 2 Spell Casting - (2d6)

(52) = 7

Resistance - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Dec 13, 2023 8:05 am
"Moonshadow!" Katie shouts, a cold fear for Kendral's companion gripping her. She scrambles to find a rock, or a stick, or *anything* she thinks she might be able to throw at the attacking birds. A nearby scattering of pine cones catches her eye and she quickly scoops up a few and winds up, taking careful aim so as not to accidentally hit the owl.
Last edited December 13, 2023 8:05 am
Dec 13, 2023 5:38 pm
Grimbly's words of warning alert you that you're under attack! Charging towards you are man things that look like a grotesque hybrid between man and tree. They may look clumsy but they are fast, agile, and silent. You were almost surprised.These things are bearing down on their targets; Katie,
Xaka and Kendral.

Kendral's skill in archery would impress Legolas! One arrow pierces through the throat of one hawk and stabs firmly in the breast of the second! Both birds of prey fall the ground.

Something different is attacking Belvedere and Grimbly. They hear sweet words of promised pleasures from feminine voices and bombarded by sweet aromas. They are being beguiled; they are being attacked by seduction magic!
OOC:
Xaka, Kendral and Katie are being attacked by Tree men. These are not ents, they are about human size. (Near Range)
Kendral, you used your action to attack the Hawks but you still have your movement and free action + Moonshadows turn
Grimbly, your sight is so enhanced by the potion you can see the dryad that is trying to use spellcraft on you despite her magical camouflage
Belvedere, you cannot see the dryads. (they are far)
[ +- ] For thos who like to have a Visual
Dec 13, 2023 5:51 pm
"Fire! We need Fire! Who can light a torch?" asks Kendral as he moves backward preparing to make his next shot. He first rips some cloth from his clothes and wraps it around his arrow head. "Lamp oil also?"
OOC:
Kendral suddenly remembers the words of the Forest god, lolhttps://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/pYMAAOSwT~lfr0SV/s-l1600.jpg
Last edited December 13, 2023 5:59 pm
Dec 13, 2023 6:20 pm
[ +- ] Monster stats
OOC:
Its still the player's turn. Remember, you guys can discuss strategy in the war room.
Dec 14, 2023 7:20 am
"This is not a friendly forest!" Katie mutters, tossing the pine cones and shifting the grip on her walking stick to 'whacking things' mode. She drops into a bit of a crouch, winds up, and takes a swing using the extra heft of the heavy iron acorn at the tree man closing in on her.
OOC:
Boon for Melee atks
Last edited December 14, 2023 8:24 am

Rolls

Weed Whacking with a Boon - (2d6)

(44) = 8

KCC

Dec 14, 2023 8:59 am
"On second thoughts, dear Grimbly. It may be best to refuse this particular advance!" the skald quips, before pulling his scroll free!

"Now; stand still, lad! So that I might keep you from that awful fate, eh?"
OOC:
Mismagick of Maldrak - The target of this spell counts as rolling a 6 defense for any magic cast on them for a day.
OOC:
For clarification, are you casting that on Belvedere or Grimbly?
[ +- ] Boom Boom Pow!
Last edited December 14, 2023 9:00 am

Rolls

Resistance - (1d6)

(2) = 2

KAPOW! - (2d6)

(22) = 4

Dec 14, 2023 10:17 pm
You're right, Belvedere! It is but a trick of magic.
OOC:
Grimbly would like to cast
[ +- ] Gilmoon's Unstuckness
I'm going to say a level 2 spell to avoid contact with these sneaky fiends.
OOC:
Roll 2d6 to see if the scroll works

Rolls

Resistance - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Dec 15, 2023 6:38 pm
Summary

Katie's attack connects with a loud 'THWACK', causing splinters and sap to explode out of the tree-man. If he could feel pain, he would scream.
Kendral withdraws but finds himself pursued by a tree-man.
Belvedere's scroll vaporizes which confirms it was cast successfully
Grimbly's scroll does not, revealing that his spell failed but he still has a scroll if he wants to try again.
Xaka attempts to dodge her attackers (dodging is not on the action list but I don't see why not.)
[ +- ] Visual of Battle so far
Now...the Monsters take their turn (will post later)
Dec 15, 2023 6:47 pm
"Bah!" Grimbly shouts, visibly upset by his failure as he invokes his scroll once again.
OOC:
Looks like we cross-posted, GM.
OOC:
Ok, change Grimbly's failure to success. ~Skyharpy
Last edited December 15, 2023 6:48 pm

Rolls

Char - rinse and repeat - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Dec 15, 2023 6:48 pm
"Defend!" Kendral calls to Moonshadow
OOC:
I might as well get that in if possible still. I'm sorry I didn't before. I was a little uncertain if we had decided or not, as general rule, to discuss a combat plan in War Room OOC and then call our actions???

Wish Moonshadow was better trained and Kendral could get him to attack a specific target, like the THREE dudes surrounding Xaka or the Dryads themselves.
Please remind me when the player's next turn starts that Moonshadow is attacking.
Last edited December 15, 2023 6:49 pm
Dec 15, 2023 9:10 pm
Two of the tree-men try to slam Katie, one tries to attack Kendral and two try to attack Xaka.

If you're hit, make armor saves; then we will know the results.

Rolls

The two on Katie - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (2) = 2

1d6 : (6) = 6

The one on Kendral - (1d6)

(5) = 5

The three on Xaka (rolled with a bane) - (2d6L1, 2d6L1, 2d6L1)

2d6L1 : (44) = 4

2d6L1 : (11) = 1

2d6L1 : (55) = 5

Dec 15, 2023 9:13 pm
The dryads cast a spell of lust and lure upon Belvedere and Grimbly. If they succeed, the characters will just stand there, mezmorized, in a stupor (aka: stunned)
Grimbly's resistance is 6; rolled automatically. Just need Belvedere.
Dec 16, 2023 12:55 am
Katie easily bats away the first of the treemen's slashes, but the second rakes across her side, leaving tears in her leather vest and a series of bloody welts beneath. She lets out a startled cry and staggers back a step, taking a more defensive posture, trying to ignore the burning over her ribs.
OOC:
Just checking - Armor Saves aren't Action Rolls, so a failed one does not generate Karma. Is that right?
Correct; an armor save is not an action. If you fail an armor save you have the option of adding karma to make it a success OR you gain a point of karma for later use. Player's choice.
OOC:
I'll take the hit and since I have Victory in Failure, +2 Karma - whoohoo!
Last edited December 17, 2023 12:12 am

Rolls

Armor save 5+ - (1d6)

(3) = 3

KCC

Dec 16, 2023 1:19 am
"Pernicious, aren’t they, Grimbly! Don’t be wooed by the likes of these. There’s skalds the world over with songs sweeter than this!"
OOC:
Does this count? Probably not!

Slippery: You can escape any ‘bad situation’ on a 4+. I can’t escape a combat hit though…
A six is what the dryad has to make to succeed.
Last edited December 16, 2023 1:21 am

Rolls

RESIST! - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Dryad2's Power Roll-needs a six - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (4) = 4

1d6 : (6) = 6

Dec 16, 2023 2:17 am
Xaka must have blinked as she misses the treemen attacking abs all she can do is dodge. Still, two hit her.
OOC:
She takes two strikes damage
Since you took the hits without adding karma, add +2 karma to your pool for later use.
Last edited December 16, 2023 2:17 am

Rolls

Light armor saves - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (3) = 3

1d6 : (2) = 2

Dec 16, 2023 2:53 pm
Dryad 1 is trying to charm Grimbly.

She succeeds.

Rolls

Power Dice for Grimbly - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (6) = 6

1d6 : (6) = 6

Dec 16, 2023 3:06 pm
Teachable Moment

Katie needed a 5 to prevent taking a strike. She rolled a 3. She COULD add +2 karma from her karma pool and make it a 5 but she took the strike (fail) instead so she gets +1 karma to add to her pool for future use. Same with Xaka. Xaka failed her amor rolls. Since they are 2 seperate rolls she can add +2 (+1 for each fail) to her karma pool for future use.

Does everyone understand why the Dryad's succeed in charming the human males? They met the resistance AND they did not roll a 1. Extremely lucky.

Now all we need is Kendral's armor save attempt, then the monsters' turn is over.


The Dryads, in unison, command their new boy toys to 'find a large tree and rest under it until told otherwise' in sweet harmonic voices. (free action) while they step towards them.
data:image/jpeg;base64,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 https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQrtDsNwk6ciCLR-ev3QmyrpYmE8NuZW0xobf6oYWOK_kPMco0A7akpETf-c9L9B9_92Ys&usqp=CAU

The Voices
Dec 16, 2023 4:01 pm
"Ah Belvedere, easier said than done but as it happens I managed it!"

Grimbly turns to the dryads and says, "I see through your tricks! I will not be resting under a large tree or any tree for that matter!"

???
Last edited December 16, 2023 4:03 pm

Rolls

Resist - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Dec 16, 2023 6:40 pm
OOC:
Armor save roll...

So that's a fail and therefor I take a strike and I can add a Karma point to Kendral's karma pool?
Yessir, that's how it works.
Last edited December 16, 2023 6:43 pm

Rolls

Kendral: Armor Save - (1d6)

(2) = 2

KCC

Dec 17, 2023 8:48 am
"Then why are we both now marching for that very tree, Grimbly?" Belvedere points out, as the two men’s minds and bodies seem to be at odds with each other.
OOC:
I think we both failed, @Windyridge!
Last edited December 17, 2023 8:51 am
Dec 17, 2023 2:16 pm
Players Turn

Belvedere and Grimbly find themselves willingly heading towards a tree that looks like it would be comfortable to sit under; coaxed by the soothing seduction by Dryad1 and Dryad2

The others find themselves in battle with these wooden men. One of them is clearly injured but the friendlies have taken a few knocks too.
[ +- ] The Situation
Dec 17, 2023 3:49 pm
Xaka has been hit hard by the strange men and now she's surrounded. The others seem to be in similar shape. She knows this is because of all the bad luck they've attracted, and vows to go down fighting.
OOC:
Attacking the injured one

Rolls

Boon on Melee tasks - (2d6H1)

(44) = 4

Dec 17, 2023 3:58 pm
"I don't rightly know Belvedere. Seems out of my control yet I want to go to them."

It seemed as though a line was being tugged between himself and the dryads.
Last edited December 17, 2023 4:00 pm
Dec 17, 2023 4:46 pm
Kendral takes aim at the tree creature following him backward.
OOC:
Also you said don't forget about Moonshadow. Hopefully Kendral and Moonshadow can take care of the creature nearby and get to helping the others. Fingers crossed...

Rolls

Kendral: Bow Attack (Trained +1d6) - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (4) = 4

1d6 : (3) = 3

Dec 17, 2023 9:22 pm
As the treemen close in on Katie and her companions, she tries to recall the lessons taught to her in the clearing outside the Tinker's house. Rotten heads of cabbage, spoiled melons, anything satisfyingly splatty and roughly head-shaped, skewered on sticks and arranged in random patterns about the clearing. "Keep your feet moving, girl! See the whole clearing, not just one target. You are a river, fluid motions, let your momentum build but maintain balance.... Balance does not mean tripping over your own feet and falling down! Again"

She takes a deep breath, swallowing her fear, trying to open her perception and see everything while focusing on nothing. With a surprisingly feral shout from such a small frame, she steps into a spin move and swings Nutbuster in a vicious arc that she visualizes cutting thru the injured treeman and continuing through the second.
OOC:
Spending one Karma to raise to 6.

Spending second Karma to raise Confirm to 6.

Katie will use the crit as carryover damage to treeman #2.
Last edited December 17, 2023 9:29 pm

Rolls

Melee strike with Boon - (2d6)

(53) = 8

Confirming Crit - (1d6)

(5) = 5

On a Roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

KCC

Dec 17, 2023 11:34 pm
"Don’t think us lazy!" Belvedere calls to the others. "We are quite under the spell of some devilish dryads." he continues, finding himself unable to turn his head to the others.

"Any help from bird, beast or man would be greatly appreciated!" he shouts finally before reaching the tree!
Last edited December 17, 2023 11:35 pm
Dec 18, 2023 12:27 am
"I'm... trying!" Katie calls back to Belvedere as she smashes pumpkins treemen.
Dec 18, 2023 1:14 am
Summary

I imagine Xaka does some kind of combat roll, disengaging from the 3 surrounding her to help Katie. She drives her spear deep into it, defeating it. It instantly rots. Katie hits like a slugger and burst the second one into splinters. It too, instantly rots and returns to dust. Moonshadow's dive misses but this gives Kendral a clean shot and his arrow connects. However, his woodman is still pursuing him. The other two find a nice comfortable tree to lean against, lured by the crooning dryads.

Tomorrow I'll post the Monster's turn. Looks like the score has been evened.
[ +- ] The Situation
Dec 18, 2023 2:22 pm
Monster's Turn: Round 2

The Wooden Men pursue Xaka and strike and her and Katie. The other, with a arrow deep in his torso, pursues and strikes at Kendral.

Rolls

Treeman on Katie - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Treemen on Xaka - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (1) = 1

1d6 : (6) = 6

Treeman on Kendral - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Dec 18, 2023 2:31 pm
The Dryads appear next to Grimbly and Belvedere, whispering words of promised future delights. They keep them charmed by anchoring their magic.

Drayad 1: "Don't you feel so lucky to be with someone beautiful for a change?"

Dryad 2: "We must certainly be more desirable than those man-women you're accompanying" in a snide, feminine tone.
This is followed by light, condescending laughter.
[ +- ] Some Mechanics
After Katie and Xaka's armor save roll the Monster's turn is over and the Player's turn, Round 3, begins,
Dec 18, 2023 2:43 pm
[ +- ] The Situation
Dec 18, 2023 2:46 pm
Armor save 5+

Katie gets hit (lose one strike) Remember; you can take a potion with your free action. +1 karma for future use.

Katie staggers back from the blow, creating a little space between herself and her assailant, and quickly quaffs a healing potion from one of the handy dandy potion pouches hanging from her belt.

Katie gets back 2 strikes. That's her free action but she still has an action left. She could use it to attack.
Last edited December 18, 2023 11:46 pm

Rolls

Armor save 5+ - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Dec 18, 2023 3:34 pm
OOC:
Light armor save, 6+
Xaka absorbs the blow by turning her breastplate into the treeman's swipe, then kicks him back a few inches before driving her spear into his barky face.
OOC:
Spend two Karma to turn a 2 into a 4 for a hit.
They have barky skin; you need a 4. Do you add another karma?

Xaka hit TM5
Last edited December 18, 2023 6:48 pm

Rolls

armor save - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Boon on Melee tasks - (1d6, 1d6, RA)

1d6 : (2) = 2

1d6 : (2) = 2

Dec 18, 2023 9:44 pm
Skyharpy says:
The Dryads appear next to Grimbly and Belvedere, whispering words of promised future delights. They keep them charmed by anchoring their magic.

Drayad 1: "Don't you feel so lucky to be with someone beautiful for a change?"

Dryad 2: "We must certainly be more desirable than those man-women you're accompanying" in a snide, feminine tone.
This is followed by light, condescending laughter.
"Oh my ... you are both very pretty. The prettiest I have ever seen and I know I am very lucky, yes indeed, Grimbly replies to the first dryad.

KCC

Dec 19, 2023 12:40 am
OOC:
And we can’t roll to resist the spell at any time?
Dec 19, 2023 9:26 am
Recovering her balance, Katie dodges out of the reach of a flailing treeman limb and brings Nutbuster down hard on the violent vegetation that Xaka had weakened, hoping to thin their numbers by one more.

Rolls

Attack on TM5 with Boon - (2d6)

(15) = 6

KCC

Dec 19, 2023 1:10 pm
"No!" Belvedere cries through clenched teeth. "He’s a simple farm boy! He doesn’t have the experience to make that assessment!"

The skald raged against the immovable force holding him down.

"We simply must get you out more, Grimbly! We can’t have you spreading lies to these ladies, can we?"
Last edited December 19, 2023 1:10 pm
Dec 19, 2023 8:27 pm
"Belvedere, please be quiet." Embarrassed in front of the "ladies" now, Grimbly frowns and disagrees.

"I'm not a simple farmboy!"
Dec 20, 2023 8:56 pm
Monster's Turn

After a brief giggle over Belvedere's and Grimbly's banter,Dryad1 looks over at the battle and asks "Sister, how many wood golems did we bring?"

Dryad2, brows furrowing "A lot more than what is left!"

They look at each other, sigh, and in unison "Ugly girls always win." Defeated, they just vanish!


https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTsHhiPbk6S8ukfVqQvh-2PavbwaU8znih-PLyI_UM2QCMWUCXtnNDm2gHZGU9uzJ9GnA&usqp=CAU
Dec 20, 2023 9:09 pm
The Tree-men don't know to quit. They just keep on attacking, oblivious that the odds are now against them.


It is now the player's turn; make armor saves (those who were hit).
[ +- ] The Situation

Rolls

TM4 attacks Katie - (1d6)

(5) = 5

TM6 attacks Xaka - (1d6)

(4) = 4

TM3 attacks Kendral with a bane (dodging) - (2d6L1)

(16) = 1

Dec 20, 2023 9:31 pm
Momentarily distracted by her recent walloping of one of the treemen, Katie lets out a yelp as yet another thrashes her body with its sharp whiplike limbs. She spins to face it wearing an expression of ferocity that at once seems both to suit her and be slightly out of place. Gripping Nutbuster firmly in both hands, she unloads a vicious strike followed up by a downward reverse that seems intended to plant her foe deep in the ground.
OOC:
Katie adds +2 Karma for failed Armor save and spends two from her existing pool to raise her attack roll to 4.
Yep, definitly a hit.
Last edited December 20, 2023 10:39 pm

Rolls

Armor save 5+ - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Melee attack on TM4 with Boon - (2d6)

(12) = 3

Dec 20, 2023 10:02 pm
Kendral swoops out of the way of the treeman's attack and prepares to release another arrow when the opportunity arises. He then calls up to Moonshadow, "Moonshadow, my friend. Defend."

Can you change that from armor save to attack? The Tree-man missed you earlier, no need for an armor save.
OOC:
Okay. I can't change a roll I already made so we can assume it was an attack roll. Sorry for the confusion.
Last edited December 21, 2023 1:20 am

Rolls

Kendral:L Armor Save - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Dec 20, 2023 11:57 pm
Xaka suffers the blow and whacks the treeman with her spear, then shuffling back and forth between them before she jabs a fierce blow at his chest.
OOC:
Target: TM6

Spending two karma: one for the armor save, one to boost the melee roll to a 4
Noted.👍🏽
Last edited December 20, 2023 11:58 pm

Rolls

Armor (light) save is a ... 6 on a d6 - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

boon on melee - (1d6, 1d6, RA)

1d6 : (2) = 2

1d6 : (3) = 3

KCC

Dec 21, 2023 10:41 am
"That was the spell talking, wasn’t it Grimbly? You can tell me." he says; as he stands to his feet and brushes the debris from his backside. "The strictest confidence, Grimbly. I won’t tell a soul!"
Dec 21, 2023 3:57 pm
Shaking his head as if trying to shake away his thoughts of lust he replies, "I don't know what became of me. Was I putty in their hands, Belvedere? How long were we ... was I ... enthralled?"

Grimbly didn't believe for a minute that Belvedere would keep it all a secret. It was far too fantastic not to share.
Dec 21, 2023 6:47 pm
[ +- ] The Monster Situation
One Tree-man continues to attack Katie, the other continues to attack Xaka. The Dryads are nowhere in sight and the other Tree-men have rotted, laying in decayed wood chips to be blown away by the brisk breeze.

Players Turn. Wish you luck! This could be the end.

Hit on Xaka, miss on Katie

Rolls

Treeman on Katie - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Treeman on Xaka - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Dec 21, 2023 8:01 pm
"I am... so done... with angry shrubs!" Katie bellows between ragged breaths as she deftly dodges under the treeman's swipe, reverses her grip on Nutbuster, and drives the spiked foot of her walking stick deep into the creature's barky torso.
Last edited December 21, 2023 8:01 pm

Rolls

Melee atk on TM4 with Boon - (2d6)

(25) = 7

Dec 21, 2023 8:52 pm
Grimbly tightly grabs his crowbar and rushes toward the closest treeman.

Come on Belvedere. We need to save our friends from those funny-looking living trees!
Dec 22, 2023 1:23 am
"Almost got them, Katie. Grrrrr," she says, as she tries to beat the twig of terror to kindling with her spear.
OOC:
Attacking TM6. Not enough karma to absorb the blow so she takes a Strike.
Last edited December 22, 2023 1:24 am

Rolls

Armor save - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Boon on melee - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (6) = 6

1d6 : (3) = 3

Critical check - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

Dec 22, 2023 1:56 am
Kendral calls to Moonshadow, "Let's help our friends. Moonshadow, Defend!"

Seeing Katie dodge and then drive her walking stick into one tree creature while Xaka unleashes a barrage of furry on the other, Kendral aims an arrow at the safest opening to help his friends finish the remaining poor tree souls.
Last edited December 22, 2023 1:59 am

Rolls

Kendral: Bow Attack (Trained +1d6) - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (5) = 5

1d6 : (5) = 5

Moonshadow: Swoop Attack - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (1) = 1

1d6 : (5) = 5

Dec 22, 2023 2:54 am
Katie and Xaka obliterate the last two tree men. As the wind blows the decayed ash away you realize that no more attacks are coming. There is no sign of the dryads anywhere, nor any more tree men.

It is late mid-day
The weather is brisk
lazy clouds float by; its only partly cloudy.


Once again, Happy Holidays.
The game will resume December 26th
Feel free to free form role play at your liesure.

https://www.enworld.org/media/wood-golem-003-jpg.39489/full

KCC

Dec 22, 2023 12:27 pm
"Funny looking? A moment ago you’d have thrown a life away, yours or mine, just to get a step closer to one of them!" Belvedere says with a wink, adjusting himself and marching back to the others.

"We dispatched two of them a little further in. Ghastly creatures! Pouring honey in the ears of simple farm fellows!"
Dec 22, 2023 3:53 pm
"Well ... you know ... the fairer species and all that. Looks like I won't be needing this after all," Grimbly says as he shoves his crowbar back into his pack, and joining the others.

"Are you going to be alright, Xaka?"
Dec 24, 2023 2:05 am
"Come here with that 'fairer species' nonsense and I'll show you how all right I am!" she says, bleeding from multiple gashes.
Dec 24, 2023 6:47 pm
Grimbly can't help but chuckle despite Xaka's wounds. "Oh you'll be fine and I'd be happy to come over there and let you show me."
Dec 26, 2023 3:19 pm
The Quest Continues.....

It becomes crystal clear that that Dryads are not going to bother you. Do you use the rest of the day to distance yourself from this grove of blissful anguish? What does the party do? Game on!
Dec 26, 2023 4:16 pm
Xaka winks at Grimbly's playfulness. "You've been spending too much time in the company of dryads," she teases.

She will try and cajole the others to make as much distance as they can from the possibly haunted area of the forest.
Dec 26, 2023 5:11 pm
OOC:
Distancing from the grove sounds good to me. If we need some healing, perhaps distancing then rest.
Dec 26, 2023 5:40 pm
[ +- ] The Map
Dec 27, 2023 4:16 am
Lucky for Xaka Grimbly is a good-humored soul when he's not being a rascal, and sometimes even then. He smirks playfully at her and says, "I'm for putting as much distance as possible between us and the grove, and the sooner the better.
Dec 27, 2023 9:41 am
"I agree," Katie concurs, examining the damage to her jerkin and wincing slightly as her fingers touch the gouges on her side. Then considering Xaka's state as well as her own, she adds, "I'm not sure if I can brew up any more healing potions in the field, they can be a little fussy, but I might be able to muster up something once we make camp."
OOC:
@Skyharpy: I didn't see anything in the book about creating potions in the field, so I'm guessing that would be too complicated a procedure. But maybe Katie could try her hand at a poultice or unguent or some such?

Rolls

Tree man sap recovery - (1d6)

(5) = 5

KCC

Dec 27, 2023 10:26 am
"Yes, I believe we’ve had quite enough of trees and tree-adjacent dangers.

Ah, to feel cobblestone underfoot. The smell of bread and wine and perfume…"
the man sighs with an exaggerated effort.
Dec 27, 2023 1:48 pm
OOC:
The party continues the trek; I'll post something after my shower and coffee
Dec 27, 2023 3:38 pm
As you navigate the autumn forest you notice a stark change in the terrain. More stones, some massive boulders, sprinkle the landscape along with the colorful trees. More rolling hills have to be traversed and small mountains can be observed in the distance. When you finally arrive at the mouth of the Cave of Despair you find yourself exhausted, in need of rest. Everyone except Xaka who seems to have an unlimited pool of energy.

Moonshadow, who flew ahead, is in a nearby tree gnawing on his prey. From a distance it looks like a thick rope. Whatever it is, he’s holding it tight in his talons and taking large chunks of it with his beak; yum!

It is dusk and Luna Violaceum is visible in the darkening sky
The wind is chill but mild

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSdQzG7Lm1m_eKO2kxg0p-Tw9VwYui74BqfqpTSzjgy4A&s

For those sharp of hearing a sound can be heard

Dec 27, 2023 6:55 pm
"What did you find for your meal?" muses Kendral curiously (especially if his ears were keen enough to detect the sound in the cave). As he speaks he moves toward the dining bird to get a better look.

The sound from the cave
Dec 28, 2023 4:58 am
[ +- ] Sounds from the Cave

KCC

Dec 28, 2023 6:10 am
"Perhaps, and this is just a suggestion… perhaps we ought to turn tail and make our way back along the road! Come at this tomorrow, bright eyed and bushy tailed! What say you all?"

The man remarks, trying not to let his voice betray his desperate wish for the others to agree!

"Unless you fancy me a common, market snake charmer!" he says, whipping out his instrument!
Dec 28, 2023 3:42 pm
"Just when I had gotten used to the idea of a rest. These hills have been murder. Grimbly sighs, his legs all but worn out.

"I suppose you are right, Belvedere. We don't want any serpents in our midst. But we should find a place to camp before long. It's getting too dark to assess our options."
Dec 28, 2023 3:49 pm
"Snakes. What are noisy snakes going to do. Let us get torches we can keep them away to pass through." Xaka figures that noisy snakes are less deadly than quiet ones.
Dec 28, 2023 3:53 pm
"If that's what it is. So far, not all has been as it seems, eh, Xaka?"
Dec 28, 2023 4:17 pm
"We’ve come this far, so I can’t see turning back now. It’s true nothing has been as it seems. All we can do is go in and see what this cave really holds." Kendral pauses and then turning to Belvedere asks inquisitively, "So, you are saying that you can’t charm snakes with that instrument of yours?"
Dec 28, 2023 4:46 pm
Moonshadow is gnawing on a captured snake, one that is over a meter in length. Unlike most serpents, Kendral can see that its tail is unusual. It's a Rattler, known for their temperament and their venom among those who are familiar with these woods. Fortunately for the party, entering the cave is not a requirement. The path takes a sharp bend near the cave but continues eastward towards the sea.

Dec 28, 2023 4:49 pm
"You all look like you need a rest. The cave would be more comfortable than the road or the forest floor. Your choice if we clear it or not. Also, Moonshadow has it right. Good eating on a snake."
Dec 28, 2023 5:24 pm
"If it's truly a snake!" Grimbly is stubborn to a fault. "If Belevedere can serenade a snake I'll go into the cave."

Grimbly grips his crowbar tightly, just in case. He rummages around in his pack and withdraws a pair of metal tongs. "This might come in handy, and oh!" His hands feel a potion bottle, "I have a potion I forgot about."
Dec 28, 2023 9:18 pm
Katie wanders tentatively closer to the cave, a look of rapt interest evident on her face, unconsciously singing the words to a half-forgotten song she heard as a child. "Into the dark, and what it brings. Secrete away your precious things. So many mysteries to explore..." As she gets closer to the entrance, she removes her pack and begins rummaging in it, never taking her eyes off the cave.

After a moment, she pulls out what looks like a large two-pronged fork. She continues humming the tune wordlessly as her fingers unscrew the spike at the bottom of Nutbuster, stow it in a belt pouch, and then screw the fork in in its place.

"We will need a torch," she says, almost to herself.

KCC

Dec 28, 2023 11:45 pm
"You wouldn’t believe the things that have been charmed by my instrument, Kendral!" Belvedere says, with characteristic swagger.

"Yes, well… into the pit of vipers then! Lead on! Pray they aren’t big!" he says, relenting. Resting in a cave would be more comfortable…
Dec 29, 2023 2:28 pm
Xaka scrounges the in the brush for torch friendly branches and collections of twigs. "We'll need to chase them out, then keep them out when we rest. So we keep a fire going, I suppose, and ... " she thinks it through, "roast any that get too close. I just hope it's not a big nest."
Dec 29, 2023 3:03 pm
"Well, between your charm Belvedere and some torch fire, we could at least explore the possibility of this cave. If is seems too dangerous upon entry, we can instead retreat to the path's bend here near the cave and continue eastward towards the sea."

Kendral joins the efforts of creating torches.
Dec 29, 2023 10:25 pm
Katie shakes herself out of her reverie and turns back to see her comrades getting to work. "Should I start a little fire out here? Then we can use it for the torches and move it inside later. Or might that just be attracting more trouble...," she trails off, looking at the forest and the path they came from.
Dec 30, 2023 1:11 pm
The Cave is as dark as it can get, jet ink blackness awaits you. Definitly need a light. The hissing continues.

https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/84c7760/2147483647/strip/true/crop/285x150+0+14/resize/1200x630!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Flegacy%2Fsites%2Fknau%2Ffiles%2F202006%2Frattlesnake_tail.jpg
Dec 30, 2023 2:11 pm
Along with helping to construct some torches, Kendral summons Nimbus of Light.
[ +- ] Nimbus of Light
"This may also help us in there."
Dec 30, 2023 5:12 pm
Xaka summons a similar Nimbus, holding it beside Kendral to provide even more light together. "Moonshadow made quick work of one. Let that buoy your hopes in dark places."
Dec 30, 2023 9:34 pm
"No I wouldn't believe it, Belvedere. Not at all," Grimbly says, eyeing the man suspiciously but with good humor.

"Katie, let's not bother with a fire out here. You're right about attracting attention. Here's hoping Moonshadow is comfortable in caves, Kendral. Or will he stay outside?"

As they step into the cave Grimbly reminds the group that he has no torch but he is very good at spotting traps.

"Shall I go in front? If someone is kind enough to light the way in front of me I will look for traps. I am hard to surprise," he says boastfully.
Dec 30, 2023 9:42 pm
"That is good news Grimbly. I will walk beside you. This nimbus need only be near me. I imagine the same for Xaka."
"I believe Moonshadow will follow us into the cave. He already has ventured there for his dinner."

Kendral helped prepare some torches, but he does not carry one himself. He needs two hands to fire his bow and instead readies an arrow.
Last edited December 31, 2023 6:38 am

KCC

Dec 31, 2023 2:10 am
Belvedere feels for his rapier then, making sure it can be drawn at a moment’s notice! He tries to walk casually, preparing to send out a tune with his instrument if needed. If not charmed, then the snakes may be startled by the sudden eruption of noise in their home!
Dec 31, 2023 8:17 am
Katie happily takes on the role of torchbearer, and follows her companions lead - Nutbuster with snaking fork at the ready.
Dec 31, 2023 12:40 pm
The hissing reverberates but your light reveals that its coming from a short distance further into the cave.

https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/019/585/585/large/ritesh-pawar-caveaa.jpg?1564145923
Dec 31, 2023 1:20 pm
As the party enters the cave, Kendral holds up his hand and whispers, "Hold. My elven eyes reveal someone kneeling deeper within the cave, in the snake nest itself."
Last edited December 31, 2023 1:22 pm
Dec 31, 2023 3:47 pm
Grimbly stops short. "Surely it's a snake?"

His grip tightens on the crowbar as a prickling sensation tickles the back of his neck. "My senses tell me nothing, Kendral."
Dec 31, 2023 4:23 pm
Xaka follows the others, her spear at the ready. She's not keen on this new plan, but it's more important to act together. She prepares to leap to the front in case of mischief.
Dec 31, 2023 5:19 pm
"I assure you Grimbly, it is no snake. I see the figure of one kneeling in worship or prayer among the serpents," insists Kendral maintaining a subdued volume. "We can turn back, approach this mysterious figure, or call out to it. I'm afraid, though, that Moonshadow's dinner choices could negatively influence the demeanor of such a serpent keeper."
Last edited December 31, 2023 5:20 pm

KCC

Jan 1, 2024 6:06 am
"Oh, dear. One of those. They do get so severe, don’t they?" Belvedere starts. He gets ready to regale the others with what he knows of the snake worshippers!

Rolls

Snake Lore - (2d6)

(54) = 9

Jan 1, 2024 4:24 pm
This cave has turned out to be a bad idea unless we can convince the fellow to keep his snakes friendly.

Grimbly wonders what good a crowbar will do in this situation.
Jan 3, 2024 2:54 am
Since no one is moving forward yet, nothing changes. Hissing continues and its up ahead.

KCC

Jan 3, 2024 6:19 am
"Well, I may not be a snake charmer, but I do know my way to the heart. Keep your distance, and leave it to me!" Belvedere whispers, ushering the others back.

He steps forward towards the figure.

"Oh, heavens. It’s wonderful to see another face out here!" he calls out! "I won’t stay long, you’ll have to forgive me! I’m just passing through. Quite literally, as it goes!"
Jan 3, 2024 3:54 pm
Belvedere's call only causes the hissing and rattles to increase.

[ +- ] HIss
Jan 4, 2024 8:49 pm
"Umm, maybe we should just leave him to whatever he's doing...," Katie says quietly, scanning the nearby area for slithering.
Jan 5, 2024 12:22 am
"What I've been saying!" Grimbly hisses as he plans his way out.
Jan 5, 2024 1:36 am
"Agreed," Katie adds in a hushed voice as she begins backtracking. "We certainly don't need to clash with a generation of vipers, especially with a few of us not at full strength."
Jan 5, 2024 5:27 am
"Let's get out of here Belvedere. I don't think you need to win the heart of this one, even if you can. I'm sorry this was a bad idea." say Kendral, trying to keep his companion from escalating the situation.
Jan 7, 2024 9:04 pm
Those who wish to leave find the outside chill air far more refreshing than the stale air in the cave. The snakes can have it!

Sol sets and you can see glimpses of twinkling stars peeking at you from behind lazy moving clouds in a periwinkle sky. The purple haze from the violet moon just adds to the atmosphere. The only sounds you hear are distant yelps of a family of fox-like creatures that are too shy to approach a camp.


https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQqTCOh3LP-0ZF-34O3Yaoh8B6HW_yeavcfKLzhEj5yAg&s
Jan 8, 2024 12:35 am
"We'll need to set up camp before it gets too dark, but I don't really fancy being too close to this snake pit." Katie considers their options for a moment, then adds brightly, "At least we have fire already."
Last edited January 8, 2024 12:36 am
Jan 8, 2024 2:59 am
"I think we will be fine as long as we keep the fire burning brightly. I can take the first watch. I'm too awake for sleep right now."

Grimbly wanders around looking for some more wood, enough to keep a blazing fire alight for the entire night.

KCC

Jan 8, 2024 3:06 am
"You won’t find them over there!" Belvedere calls after Grimbly. "I’m afraid you may never find them again! Best make peace with it!" he continues, referring to the dryads that had enamored them earlier in the day.

To Katie, he sighs dramatically:

"Love’s first brush. A punch to the gut for the poor lad!" he says, with a playful wink!
Jan 8, 2024 4:06 am
Kendral holds back a chuckle and involuntarily smirks at Belvedere's tease toward Grimbly. Instead of entertaining the joke further he instead says, "You are likely right Grimbly. A good fire should keep us safe. Thank you for taking first watch. Moonshadow can assist."

Kendral moves next to Gimbly and calls to his companion, "Moonshadow, Perch." When the bird lands on a branch close to him and Grimbly, Kendral stroke the bird's feathers. Turning to Grimbly he says, "Pet him too so he knows who to alert."

Then Kendral commands, "Warn Gimbly Moonshadow, Warn."
Last edited January 8, 2024 4:07 am
Jan 8, 2024 3:39 pm
Grimbly has the urge to stick his tongue out at Belvedere but instead rolls his eyes and waves away the man's comment.

When Kendral offers his owl for first watch, he is delighted but hesitant.

"Oh! Okay, sure." Grimbly tentatively reaches out a hand and gently pets the top of the owl's head, surprised at how soft its feathers are. He relaxes after a few minutes after he realizes the bird won't hurt him.

"Looks like it's just you and me on first watch tonight, eh Monshadow?"
Last edited January 8, 2024 3:39 pm
Jan 8, 2024 4:46 pm
You make camp what you guess is a safe distance from the Cave of Rest, which turned out to be a Cave of Rest for a nest of vipers. The fire is warm and adds a level of comfort to the quickly falling temperature. Before the watch starts there is some time for fellowship, relaxation and chow.
OOC:
What I would like you to do is share with us a story from your pc's background. Reveal something about your pc that isn't known until this moment. This is also an opportunity for Katie to use her tree salve.
https://i.pinimg.com/736x/9c/cd/2b/9ccd2b4bf789402b346418521d794d61.jpg
Jan 9, 2024 3:56 am
Xaka says with her back resting on her pack, chewing on a long taper that's smoking on the other end. The conversation goes around and someone asks her about men in her past.

"I like big men, fat even but as long as they're strong too. Once was this teamster named Sorrgo. He and I shacked up for a few months, until he shipped off and died when his merchantman was boarded by a navy ship and the whole crew hung. Never did find out why. Probably they Black Leaf. They blamed me, the idjits and I spent three weeks breaking rocks before they let me go realizing I just had bad taste in men."

KCC

Jan 9, 2024 12:19 pm
"Ah, the places the heart can lead us!" he says, strumming his instrument absent-mindedly, as he stares the flames licking up out of the fire! His face is hard though, rather than its usual mirthful self…

"You may not know that the heart led yours truly to settle down, once upon a time. Yes, yes! Hard to believe it, I know. Such is my fame with the fairer sex!" he continues to work his instrument.

"Yes. A little place, out of the way. Rookwood was its name on the imperial maps. Well, there was three of us in it; my wife and our little girl." he says, but doesn’t give their names along with the story.

"Suffice to say that Rookwood’s not there any more… and neither are they!" he says, his instrument coming to a sudden silent stop. He sits quiet for a moment, before continuing.

"I believe it’s some ghastly goblin hovel these days, or whatever manner of beast it was that swept out of the woods!" he says, clearing his throat before going quiet. He starts up a softer song on the instrument, and passes the night in silence.
Jan 9, 2024 4:47 pm
"That leaves me out then, eh, Xaka? Or maybe not. I would never let a woman take the blame for something she didn't do."

Staring into the fire he tries to pluck out some good memories amongst the mostly bad ones seeing as they are sharing campfire stories.

"I've been a rascal, I admit it. I have had some interesting adventures but the one that stands out the most amongst many is the day I stole a widow's set of imported china. She caught me red-handed, and as we looked upon each other's faces, first in fear, then with interest ... bah!

Suddenly Grimbly becomes shy, and whether it's the fire or him blushing, he hopes none of the present company will be able to tell the difference. Stirring some coals with a stick he continues. "To make a short story shorter, we fell in love but it didn't last."
Jan 11, 2024 1:11 am
As the group sits round the fire, Katie rummages in her pack and produces a number of small earthenware jars with cork stoppers. "Whoever's nicked up a bit," she gives Xaka a wink and tosses one gently to her. "Might want some of this treeman goo I whipped up. It's not a full fledged healing potion, but it should help a little. Oh, and I wouldnt suggest taking it orally. A topical application is probably better," "she adds offhandedly, as she begins applying some of the amber unguent to her own wounds, wincing just a little.
OOC:
Katie has 3 more of these, each healing 1 strike. Let me know who wants/needs them and I'll cross them off my inventory.
Jan 11, 2024 2:37 am
She slugs one back. "Thank you!" and then pats the ground for good luck
OOC:
Recovered 1 Strike, now 3/5
Sky: 😆
OOC:
It tastes nasty!
Jan 11, 2024 6:23 am
"You know Katie, I was supposed take up the family business, fusing elven magics with all sorts off treeman goos and flower petals found in the wood elves' forest. Guarded, secret elven stuff, you know. Had the best teacher my father could afford set up, Master Silvadra Lunis...I think that was his name.

My family set up my marriage to a fine elven maiden from another house. But when I was alone, out in the forest, searching for plants for my first lesson ever as an apprentice, it hit me. I didn't want that life. I wanted to explore beyond the woodland of my kin. I wanted to discover, experience, and map other wildernesses where my people never trod. I have never regretted my choice to leave, but it has gotten lonely.

Even if tragedies such as hangings or goblin hordes have prevented you all from settling down, it remains my great fortune that you have not and we are able to travel together on this road and others. I am grateful for your company."
OOC:
Sorry Kendral got a little mushy...
Last edited January 11, 2024 6:25 am

KCC

Jan 11, 2024 12:23 pm
"Oh yes! Who could suffer something dreadful like a beautiful elf maiden, when there are snake filled caves to spend the night outside of!" Belvedere quips, his old self slipping to the fore again for a moment.
Jan 11, 2024 12:56 pm
Understanding the irony in Belvedere's quip, Kendral goads, "Well then let's suffer through a full song on that instrument of yours Belvedere."
Jan 11, 2024 4:18 pm
The remainder of the night goes uninterrupted and you get as good sleep as one can in these primitive conditions. In the morning Sol rises, the promise of a new day. Two whole days have passed and it looks like the final leg will require another. You remember, those with Soul weapons, that you only have five more days before the magic wanes.
OOC:
Great stories! +1 karma for everyone. I think we know how important karma is.
https://fydn.imgix.net/m%2Fgen%2Fcanvas-std-landscape-p1%2F303a91be-8bba-4b67-9aa7-e8f24a38fa68.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&q=75
Jan 11, 2024 7:26 pm
Seck says:
OOC:
Sorry Kendral got a little mushy...
OOC:
Grimbly loves sappy.

"Yes, Belvedere. Let's suffer terribly through your music!" he says jokingly. In truth, Grimbly felt sorry for the man having lost his family. Joking around was the rascal's way of dealing with the unwelcome feelings of empathy. Those feelings were not the rascal's way.

KCC

Jan 12, 2024 1:22 am
Belvedere flashes a mischievous smile and stands to his feet. He strums his instrument with some fervor then, and begins to play!

"This one, I dedicate to all the elven maidens of this world! May our paths cross with a band of them before long!"

He starts up, and looks to the others to see if they knew the tune. He sings low at first, until he breaks into the roaring chorus. He beckons the others to sing along:

"Give me, give me, give me a maiden at midnight…
Won’t somebody help me chase the shadows away?…
Give me, give me, give me a maiden at midnight…
Take me through the darkness to the break of the day…"

Abba Bardcore Classic
Jan 12, 2024 1:59 am
After the song (and attempting to pick up and join in the chorus to the hauntingly familiar tune), Kendral claps in appreciation.

"That was wonderful Belvedere. Did you learn from the bards of the Northlands?."
Last edited January 12, 2024 1:59 am
Jan 12, 2024 2:49 pm
OOC:
I will post something Sunday. In the meantime assume you are traveling towards your goal.
Jan 12, 2024 3:58 pm
Grimbly had to admit to himself that the tune was very nice, hypnotic almost but he wouldn't sing along as he had a terrible voice and would look and sound like a fool. His voice was too scratchy to hold a note for long.

"Ah, Belvedere you have some talent, sure enough."
Jan 13, 2024 1:18 am
Xaka slaps her hands at the song, dancing a little as they go. "Oh, marvelous. On behalf of human maidens everywhere, I say bravo for singing about elves!" She laughs and knocks on the wood of her spear for luck.

KCC

Jan 15, 2024 1:23 am
"With any luck, the birds of the forest are already carrying word of my song to the elves that surely make their homes in this wood!" he responds, flashing a hopeful and mischievous smile!

"If they make me an offer, well, I trust you can all see to the quest yourselves in my absence!"
Jan 18, 2024 2:56 am
As far as you can tell, this is a safe place to make camp. As safe as any in these creepy woods. Your weapons indicate there are no undead close enough to activate them so there is that. What do you do?
OOC:
I'll give you guys some more time to figure it out.

KCC

Jan 18, 2024 3:06 am
OOC:
@Skyharpy: Wrong thread. We’re over in thread 3!

You do not have permission to post in this thread.