Whispers in the Woods

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Apr 8, 2025 12:48 pm

Apr 8, 2025 12:48 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The journey out of the forest is much faster. You head directly east, bypassing the winding tails you took before when you searched for the burrow. A couple of days later the trees thin as you push through the underbrush, and soon you find yourself at the edge of the forest, where the land spreads out before you. The Duke's road lies ahead, stretching north all the way to Threshold.

As you approach nearer to the town, you notice groups of armed men moving up and down the path. Most of them are farmers, but a few are clearly from the Threshold town guard; wearing mail and brandishing swords. Search parties. Just like the ones that were gathered when Serghei's daughter went missing. The ones formed when something bad happened...

Apr 8, 2025 2:56 pm

Apr 8, 2025 2:56 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Hold, friends!" Miyana calls out. "What goes on here?"

Apr 8, 2025 3:04 pm

Apr 8, 2025 3:04 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica draws up next to Miyana, a concerned look on her face. "Is someone missing?"

Apr 8, 2025 3:06 pm

Apr 8, 2025 3:06 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will sets his magical swords down, and gazes emerald eyes stoically upon the armed men. All while striking a very heroic pose!

Apr 8, 2025 7:25 pm

Apr 8, 2025 7:25 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The guards exchange wary glances before one of them, an older man with a gray beard, steps forward to answer your question:

"It's Stefan. He's gone missing. The lad left early this morning to gather some plants for Humphrey's potions, but he hasn't returned yet. He should have been back a long time ago, especially with the sun starting to set. Humphrey is worried sick about him" he pauses and sighs "After Mia's murder, and the goblin raids, we fear the worse"

He gestures down the road, where the path continues northward "Humphrey down there, if you want to talk with him"

Apr 8, 2025 7:28 pm

Apr 8, 2025 7:28 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica looks to her companions and says, "What say you, friends? Let's see if we can help. We can go talk to this Humphrey."

Apr 8, 2025 7:55 pm

Apr 8, 2025 7:55 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Yes. Yes, to Humphrey.
Will leads his party to go speak with Humphrey.

Apr 8, 2025 8:16 pm

Apr 8, 2025 8:16 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Poor Humphrey, of course we should help" Anton felt a kinship with Humphrey, being both scholars, and having met with him multiple times now for potions and scrolls. He could definitely understand why he would be worried sick that one of his charges had gone missing.

Apr 9, 2025 1:11 am

Apr 9, 2025 1:11 am

Whispers in the Woods

"Yes, we should help!" Miyana is very anxious to assist.

Apr 9, 2025 4:42 am

Apr 9, 2025 4:42 am

Whispers in the Woods

You find Humphrey a few minutes walk down the road, his hands are shaky and his eyes dart toward the road every few moments, as if he hadn't yet lost hope that Stefan would suddenly arrive. His posture stiffens when he sees you, trying to gather himself for a few moments.

"Oh. you've come… you've come to help too?" His eyes drop to the ground as he sighs "I shouldn't have sent him alone. Not with the goblins on the prowl, and... not with the killer still at large. What was I thinking? If something’s happened to him..." he left the rest of his words unspoken.

"You HAVE to help" he addresses Anton in particular "He is a member of the guild! We have to find him, before it gets dark"

Apr 9, 2025 1:36 pm

Apr 9, 2025 1:36 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Of course Humphrey, we will help. For his sake, and the guilds. What can you tell us about where he might have been headed? When did he set out? Were there times in the past where he might have deviated from his normal paths or where he told you stories of discovering new areas to gather from?" Anton had his journal out once more, ready to take notes.

Apr 9, 2025 5:24 pm

Apr 9, 2025 5:24 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"He usually sticks to the outskirts of the Black Woods, west of the farms. He left early this morning, and mentioned something about checking the northern edge of the woods today. That's all I know" the old man rubbed his hands together as he tried to steady his nerves
"I... I knew goblins were raiding the area these past few weeks. But they never attacked during the day. They're cowards, hiding in their caves, afraid of the sun. They usually come out at night, when they can skulk around and do their damage without being seen. I don’t understand this—why would they attack Stefan in broad daylight? It just doesn't add up." he shakes his head "Goblins are stupid, sure. But even they know that killing a human like this... it’s not the kind of thing you do if you want to stay hidden. They know what’ll happen. Every able-bodied man in Threshold would be hunting them down"

Maybe Humphrey was trying to justify his decision to send Stefan to the outskirts of the woods that day, but maybe there is something in what he is saying too.

Apr 9, 2025 5:44 pm

Apr 9, 2025 5:44 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods sympathetically, trying to calm the man. She looks to her companions and comments, "Well, we don't know yet that goblins had anything to do with this. He could have tripped and hurt himself or something more benign. We'll find him."

Apr 9, 2025 6:37 pm

Apr 9, 2025 6:37 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Boudica is right, this could be nothing more than a sprained ankle or perhaps a long afternoon nap." He tried to catch Humphrey's gaze to reassure him. "Rest now, we will find him for you"

Apr 9, 2025 7:52 pm

Apr 9, 2025 7:52 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana says nothing, but her face betrays her feelings that this is more than they are trying to reassure Humphrey with.

Apr 9, 2025 8:01 pm

Apr 9, 2025 8:01 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"He wouldn't be so irresponsible as to nap out in the woods" he shakes his head, not much relieved when Anton said they would find him "I fear the worst. There isn't that much time before the sun sets, and once it does, it is going to be dangerous outside, with the goblins on the prowl. We must hurry"

Apr 9, 2025 9:23 pm

Apr 9, 2025 9:23 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Just try to relax, Humphrey. We will find him, do not fret.
Will turns to his companions. A shrug and a look upon emerald eyed face seems to say, Well I guess we’re up and moving again!

Apr 9, 2025 10:08 pm

Apr 9, 2025 10:08 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods in agreement and says, "Lead the way. I do not know these woods."

Apr 9, 2025 11:16 pm

Apr 9, 2025 11:16 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will checks with the guards for a map or for general information about trails through the woods. He eventually steps to the forest’s edge, stoops low, and checks for tracks or likely paths of travel.

Rolls

Hunting (Wis 10) - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Apr 10, 2025 11:07 am

Apr 10, 2025 11:07 am

Whispers in the Woods

The farmland slowly give way to patches of untamed brush and clusters of wind-worn trees the farther west you travel. With the sun beginning to set, the air grows cooler, and the shadows stretch over the land. Before long, the trees begin the thicken, and the silhouette of the Black Woods rises ahead, the dense canopy already cloaked in shadow.

When Will scans the ground, he notices some of the undergrowth has been trampled, stems bent and wildflowers crushed beneath someone's boot. The tracks lead deeper into the woods, but there is no certainty they belong to Stefan's.

What do you do?

Apr 10, 2025 11:41 am

Apr 10, 2025 11:41 am

Whispers in the Woods

"We have to continue, we cannot leave Stefan alone tonight, better to find a fight than a dead body" Anton knew what he was saying, urging his new companions into a combat where he would be nigh useless, he ached for more power, he wanted to be able to lay goblins low in order to assist in these matters, but for now he had a trusty spell, and a full set of daggers to try and chip in.

Apr 10, 2025 3:02 pm

Apr 10, 2025 3:02 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Agreed."

Apr 10, 2025 3:04 pm

Apr 10, 2025 3:04 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods and says, "Onward."

Apr 10, 2025 4:47 pm

Apr 10, 2025 4:47 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The hours slip by as you push deeper and deeper into the Black Woods. The moon overhead casts a silvery light through the dense trees, illuminating the path you are following. The tracks continue on a slow, deliberate pace. No sign of distress, only steady steps. it is also quite obvious that the person you are tracking had company. A second set of prints, with a shorter gait. The two must have walked together for hours, moving at a leisurely pace as if they weren't worried about being followed. The only problem is that you are always a few steps behind, and there is no way to know how far you would need to walk before you catch up with them.

OOC:

Let me know how long you are willing to continue walking. (Consider that if Stefan left in the morning and walked till the evening before stopping to rest, you have hours of trekking ahead of you, and you might lose a night's sleep).

Apr 10, 2025 4:51 pm

Apr 10, 2025 4:51 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"We need to keep going," Miyana says solemnly. "Our best hope is that they have stopped for the night and we will run into them."

Last edited April 10, 2025 4:52 pm

Apr 10, 2025 5:55 pm

Apr 10, 2025 5:55 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods in agreement and says, "If he is truly in danger out here at night, we should press on."

Apr 10, 2025 6:29 pm

Apr 10, 2025 6:29 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Agreed" Anton was worried that they would become too fatigued to fight, but the others seemed ready to press forward and he wasn't about to raise concern when they were being so brave.

Apr 11, 2025 6:38 am

Apr 11, 2025 6:38 am

Whispers in the Woods

You press through the night, following the tracks deeper into the heart of the forest. When morning finally comes, you understand why it is called the Black Woods; the canopy is so thick and tangled that the sun barely touches the forest floor, leaving everything below in a murky, perpetual twilight.

Along the way, you find subtle signs that your quarry paused to rest: apple cores tossed into underbrush, patches of trampled grass where someone once sat down. As the hours pass, the tracks merge with an old, nearly forgotten trail, barely more than a trace in the undergrowth.

The path leads into an even darker part of the forest, where dense stands of ancient fir trees cast everything into near-night despite the rising sun. The ground here is soft and spongy with thick carpets of pine needles, killing most plant life save for clusters of pale fungi that thrive in the damp.

Then, through the mist and branches, you see it, a ring of thorny brambles, twisted into a crude palisade fence. Inside, nestled in the clearing's center, stands a massive gnarled tree with windows like hollowed eyes and a heavy wooden door carved straight into its trunk.

OOC:

The trail ends at the edge of the palisade. there doesn't seem to be a way across. what do you do?

Apr 11, 2025 11:06 am

Apr 11, 2025 11:06 am

Whispers in the Woods

Shall we try climbing over?
Will looks for ways to climb over the tree line.

Apr 11, 2025 1:08 pm

Apr 11, 2025 1:08 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Maybe if we follow it's perimeter we will find a way in?"

Apr 11, 2025 8:30 pm

Apr 11, 2025 8:30 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana nods at Anton's suggestion and begins to skirt the perimeter.

Apr 11, 2025 11:34 pm

Apr 11, 2025 11:34 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica follows Anton and Miyana around the perimeter.

Apr 12, 2025 4:17 am

Apr 12, 2025 4:17 am

Whispers in the Woods

You skirt around the edge of the palisade, searching for an opening, but there is none. The brambles are thick and twisted, rising taller than a man's head, and the thorns look particularly nasty, each one as sharp as the edge of your swords. The impenetrable wall of living barbs goes on for the entire circumference - a full fifteen-minute walk with the deathly silence of the Black Woods pressing around you.

You find yourself back where you started, but this time, the wall of brambles has parted, and a narrow archway opens before you. Standing in the arch is a grotesque figure: an old, round woman with sagging jowls, warts blooming across her face like fungi, and small beady dark eyes. When she opens her mouth to speak, she bares her rotten, yellow teeth to you in a disturbing smile:

"Well now," she croaks "we rarely get visitors out here. Who might you be, and what brings you sniffing around my grove?"

Flanking her are two men, or things shaped like men. Their skin an unnatural, smooth gray, completely hairless, with long limbs and eyes like polished obsidian. They watch silently, unmoving, their expressions unreadable beneath the inhuman sheen of their faces.

Apr 12, 2025 12:57 pm

Apr 12, 2025 12:57 pm

Whispers in the Woods

We’re looking for a missing young human named Stefan. He entered these woods, probably a bit over a day ago, early morning, and hasn’t returned to his village as expected.

Last edited April 12, 2025 12:58 pm

Apr 12, 2025 8:16 pm

Apr 12, 2025 8:16 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The old woman doesn't answer straight away.
She tilts her head, as if considering something.

Then she sniffs.

Once. Twice.

Her nostrils flare wide as she inhales deeply, leaning forward just slightly, the tip of her nose lifting toward Anton like a hound catching scent of something familiar. Her eyes narrow with sudden interest.

For a long moment, she says nothing at all as she watches him.
Then she stands upright again, as if she has made up her mind.

"Oh yes. Stefan arrived here just a few short hours ago. He’s my guest."

Behind her, the gray men remain still as statues.

Apr 12, 2025 9:40 pm

Apr 12, 2025 9:40 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Can we see him, please? His family is worried about him.

Apr 12, 2025 10:44 pm

Apr 12, 2025 10:44 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton feels, uncomfortable, but stays silent letting Will! take the lead on the situation for now. That arch hadn't existed before though, so either there was a mechanism to move part of the wall, or there was magic afoot.

Apr 12, 2025 11:19 pm

Apr 12, 2025 11:19 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Trying to figure out why they’d have been so focused on Anton.

Apr 13, 2025 2:21 am

Apr 13, 2025 2:21 am

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Maybe she can smell magic?

Apr 13, 2025 5:24 am

Apr 13, 2025 5:24 am

Whispers in the Woods

"He's sleeping now, and I wouldn't like the disturb his rest" the woman says "I hope he will be up in time for dinner. Or breakfast tomorrow. If you would like to stay until then, I can extend the invitation to you as well"

OOC:

you can't figure out why they focus on Anton, save make a guess. But the old woman definitely changed her tone, once she 'sniffed' him out.

Apr 13, 2025 3:29 pm

Apr 13, 2025 3:29 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Like most Traladarans, Boudica was raised with a healthy respect for nature and its magics. She wonders if this crone isn't a hag, or a fae of some sort, or perhaps an old witch. Regardless, this is her grove they have entered, so Boudica will behave like a polite guest.

She bows slightly and says, "That is most gracious of you, my lady of the grove. May I ask how we should address you, my lady?"

Apr 13, 2025 4:43 pm

Apr 13, 2025 4:43 pm

Whispers in the Woods

I gladly accept!

Apr 14, 2025 4:11 am

Apr 14, 2025 4:11 am

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana is a bit taken aback that her companions would accept an invitation from the strange old crone so readily. She keeps her reservations to herself, however, and follows the others inside, murmuring a word of thanks to the old woman as she passes.

Apr 14, 2025 3:35 pm

Apr 14, 2025 3:35 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Call me Magda, dear" the old woman reveals a row of yellow, rotting teeth as she smiles at Boudica. She waits for you to pass through, and as the last of you steps through the archway she lifts a gnarled hand and gives a lazy little wave. Behind you, the brambles rustle, and then move. The throned vines slither inward, knitting themselves back together. Within moments, the entrance is gone. The wall of thorns is whole once more, as if it had never parted.

"And how shall I call you?" she asks as she leads you into the dark and gloomy clearing. All around you, gray-skinned men move in silence: hauling water, scraping hides, stirring cauldrons. Each one is identical. Same smooth features, same obsidian eyes. None speak. None look at you.

The woman ignores them, walking on, unhurried, toward the massive hollowed tree at the center of the clearing, gesturing for you to enter. The smell inside is the first thing you notice: sweet, like dried flowers and honeyed herbs… but beneath that, something else. A faint, sour, almost pungent smell. Almost subtle enough to doubt it's there.

"My mother and my daughter are indisposed right now, but we will all meet at dinner. Would you like to rest in the meantime? Your travel has been long, and you look exhausted."

Apr 14, 2025 6:50 pm

Apr 14, 2025 6:50 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana remains silent for a moment, then answers the woman's question. "Call me Aleeta," she replies, unwilling to give her true name to a stranger who is potentially an enemy.

Apr 14, 2025 11:01 pm

Apr 14, 2025 11:01 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica watches in amazement and concern as their path out of this enclave closes, leaving them trapped behind a formidable barrier. She walks along with the hag woman and tries to be polite. She notices that Miyana gives an alias, which might be wise, given that names are said to hold power, yet she cannot be dishonest so soon after being chastised for falling short of her ideals.

"It is nice to meet you, Magda. My name is Boudica, of Traladar. I am happy to stay for a time, but I hope not to tarry too long, as Stefan's friends are worried about him, and we promised to find him and return him to them when we could. Is there anything I can do for you and your family to help facilitate that, and to reciprocate your kindness and hospitality?"

Boudica does not believe this woman has the best of intentions, but she suspects that they might be able to bargain or barter with her for Stefan.

Apr 15, 2025 1:52 pm

Apr 15, 2025 1:52 pm

Whispers in the Woods

William, replies our fightery fellow. Call me Will.

Apr 15, 2025 5:27 pm

Apr 15, 2025 5:27 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"How lovely to meet someone so polite" the old woman seems buoyant, or perhaps amused, as she walks next to Boudica. She leads you up the stairs, which creak under heavy weight, though she herself barely seems winded as she climbs.

"You will see Stefan at dinner, if you decide to stay. He’s been quite content here, actually. It's sweet of you to be worried about him, but I doubt you will be able to change his mind into leaving"

At the top of the stairs, she pushes open one of the wooden doors and gestures you inside. The room is plain and somewhat cramped, clearly used more for storage than hospitality. A couple of soft mattresses have been laid out with woolen blankets. A small table holds a bottle of water, a chipped ceramic cup, and what looks like a bundle of herbs drying on a string. In one corner, a stack of wicker baskets and an old iron coat rack suggest the room sees many purposes.

"I must apologize. I don’t have enough mattresses laid out for all of you at the moment, but if you decide to spend the night, I can make arrangements. It's no trouble."

She nods at you, and stares at Anton in particular "Would you like anything to eat while you wait? A bit of stew? some bread and cheese, perhaps?"

Apr 15, 2025 7:51 pm

Apr 15, 2025 7:51 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"No, thank you," 'Aleeta' replies.

Apr 15, 2025 8:19 pm

Apr 15, 2025 8:19 pm

Whispers in the Woods

No, I’m good, our fightery fellow replies. How long until…dinner, you said?

Apr 15, 2025 8:30 pm

Apr 15, 2025 8:30 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"A few hours from now. Once the sun has set" she replies to Will "I will send someone to fetch you when it's time"

Apr 15, 2025 9:48 pm

Apr 15, 2025 9:48 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will waits while watching. Once Magda departs, our fightery fellow begins looking for exits into what might be rooms where Stefan may be kept.

Apr 15, 2025 9:58 pm

Apr 15, 2025 9:58 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica follows Magda up to the "guest room." When asked if she would like to eat anything, she demurs, but thanks her for the offer.

Once the strange woman leaves them, Boudica says, "So… this woman is not human, right? And do you think that Stefan is under some spell?"

Apr 15, 2025 10:01 pm

Apr 15, 2025 10:01 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Right, and yes. I say we find Stefan, grab him and go. Or find out how to break this spell.

Apr 16, 2025 1:15 pm

Apr 16, 2025 1:15 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton tried to gain the attention of all in the hut, "Magda has been very courteous, offering us to stay in her...well furnished hut" Anton's word 'furnished' was punctuated by his looking around the hut, hinting to the fact that he and the party were in her domain.

"Hopefully Stefan will listen to us about his affairs back in town, and return with us. Hopefully he'll see reason" once again two words punctuated oddly, listen, and see. He was worried there might be magics here that could allow Magda to spy on them. He had begun to study a spell in the tome from Mistamere that would allow just that.

Apr 16, 2025 2:17 pm

Apr 16, 2025 2:17 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The second floor curves with the shape of the hollow tree. The walls are smooth, lit by flickering lanterns filled with fireflies that cast a soft blue glow. The staircase continues upward, twisting higher into the trunk, but there are two other doors on this level.

The first is little more than a seamless panel of wood. No hinges. No handle. No keyhole. Just a slightly darker grain marking its outline. It doesn’t budge when Will presses on it, but judging by the curvature of the floor, there must be another room behind it.

The second door is half open, behind which lies a well-kept room. There is a neatly made bed beneath a small window, with a fluffed pillow and a thick woolen blanket. A simple vanity table stands against the wall, with a bottle of perfume, and a comb on top of it. On a low stool next to the window stands a wicker basket holding several folded garments.

But it’s the paintings that draw the eye.

They’re pinned with care along one wall, each rendered in vivid color and lifelike detail. A waterfall flowing over mossy stones. A baby deer peering from behind the trees. A bright and colorful songbird on a tree branch. Whomever painted these pictures clearly had a great love for nature - and patience, to capture all these details.

Apr 16, 2025 5:53 pm

Apr 16, 2025 5:53 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Don't be fooled," the ever-suspicious Miyana reminds him. "We know nothing about who or perhaps what this Magda is. She and her minions could turn on us in a second. And Stefan may have been unwittingly charmed... or worse."

Apr 16, 2025 6:55 pm

Apr 16, 2025 6:55 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will nods agreeably. Our fightery fellow runs vaunts.te hands along seams of the closed door. He checks for signs of air or light seeping through, and tries determining if he might be able to simply pull it open.

Last edited April 16, 2025 6:55 pm

Apr 16, 2025 7:29 pm

Apr 16, 2025 7:29 pm

Whispers in the Woods

There are no seams or hinges or gaps between the 'door' and the wall. Surely there is a way to open it, but not with Will's bare hands.

Apr 16, 2025 10:40 pm

Apr 16, 2025 10:40 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica follows the others in the exploration. She listens at the sealed door, but does not try to open it beyond that.

Apr 17, 2025 5:08 pm

Apr 17, 2025 5:08 pm

Whispers in the Woods

We’re not getting into that room the normal way,Will says, gesturing at the solid dark-wood paneling intended as a door. Shall we check upstairs?
Will begins fighters ascent upstairs. Unless someone has another idea.

Apr 17, 2025 6:46 pm

Apr 17, 2025 6:46 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

I have the Knock spell memorized, do I think that would assist us in getting through this?

Apr 17, 2025 9:37 pm

Apr 17, 2025 9:37 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica whispers, "Going in there could antagonize our hosts, I think. If we have reason to believe he is within, then we must. But perhaps we should peek upstairs and downstairs first?"

Apr 17, 2025 9:55 pm

Apr 17, 2025 9:55 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"I have a bit of magic that can help with this, if we are in agreement that we want it open" Anton offered.

Apr 17, 2025 10:07 pm

Apr 17, 2025 10:07 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will gestures at the door, Anton room to work.
I’ll cover you, Will says to Anton, readying Icy Bronze.

Apr 18, 2025 1:33 am

Apr 18, 2025 1:33 am

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana readies her bow, pointing it at the door. "Open it."

Last edited April 18, 2025 1:33 am

Apr 18, 2025 1:09 pm

Apr 18, 2025 1:09 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton nodded and spoke the words, did the gestures, and then ended with a light rapping on the door to finish the spell. He then stepped aside to allow Will!, Miyana, and Boudica to investigate ahead of him.

OOC:

He casts knock

Apr 18, 2025 1:39 pm

Apr 18, 2025 1:39 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The wood creaks and parts as soon as Anton finishes his incantation. The door swings inward on hidden hinges, revealing the dim room beyond.

It is also a living room, like the one Magda has set for you, but it also serves as a storeroom. There are bundles of dried herbs hanging on a string crisscrossing the walls with a thick scent of sage, poppy, and something else you can't quite identify. On the wooden shelves are cloudy glass jars with floating animal parts inside the murky fluid. The table below the shelves is cluttered with more jars, a wooden mortar and pestle, and cloth bundles tied in a string.

And near the window is a low bed, on top of which is the young boy not much older than twelve, tucked beneath a wool blanket. He is sleeping, though he breathes very slowly and deeply. Around his bed is a carefully arranged ring of salt - not a grain out of place.

OOC:

the boy is Stefan. Those Those of you who visited Humphrey's shop should recognize him.

Apr 18, 2025 3:47 pm

Apr 18, 2025 3:47 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton wants nothing more than to rush to the boy and check his health, but he instead speaks up to inform the others of his suspicions, "There might be wards, magical or otherwise, we should advance carefully." He began to move forward seeing if he could make out in magical wards or traps.

Apr 18, 2025 4:16 pm

Apr 18, 2025 4:16 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will walks slowly, steadily and carefully behind Anton, approaching Stefan.

Apr 18, 2025 5:27 pm

Apr 18, 2025 5:27 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton would have to investigate the room more carefully with an appropriate spell to confirm if there are any traces of magical wards or traps, but he is fairly certain that the circle of salt around the bed has to do with some sort of a magical ritual. What precisely is its nature, however, was impossible to say.

Apr 18, 2025 7:02 pm

Apr 18, 2025 7:02 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will approached the circle, and stoops low just outside it it. He pauses, and if nothing happens, then he shifts a little of the salt out and to his right.

Apr 18, 2025 8:51 pm

Apr 18, 2025 8:51 pm

Whispers in the Woods

A sudden gust of wind rushes through the room as soon as Will shifts some of the salt. A faint bell begins to ring soon after, from somewhere distant inside the hollow tree. Stefan stirs slightly in his sleep, but does not wake.

Apr 19, 2025 4:35 am

Apr 19, 2025 4:35 am

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica, who had been keeping watch in the hallway, hears the bell and runs inside. Seeing what has happened, she announces, "You've found Stefan! Oh, but bad news -- apparently you set off some kind of alarm. I assume they now know we have found him. I don't expect them to be friendly about it. She rushes to Stefan and tries to rouse him."

Apr 19, 2025 5:23 am

Apr 19, 2025 5:23 am

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana, heeding Boudica's words, turns to face the door, bow at the ready.

Stefan (Costache)

Apr 19, 2025 11:39 am

Apr 19, 2025 11:39 am

Whispers in the Woods

Stefan stirs beneath the blanket, but doesn't open his eyes

"...Is it time for dinner already?" he murmurs. He doesn’t move to sit up. Just lies there, groggy and dazed, as the bell rings again from somewhere deeper within the tree. And above you, the slow creak of footsteps descending down the stairs.

Apr 19, 2025 2:57 pm

Apr 19, 2025 2:57 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Will give everyone a chance e to post, before I RP Will messing us up yet again (I’m frustrated with my lack of good decision). Thinking about just throwing him over my shoulder and packing him out.

Last edited April 19, 2025 2:58 pm

Apr 19, 2025 5:36 pm

Apr 19, 2025 5:36 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Might be the best way to go, actually.

Apr 19, 2025 5:41 pm

Apr 19, 2025 5:41 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Nah, it's fine! We were gonna have a confrontation eventually, I'm sure, even if Boudica keeps trying to avoid them. Cleric's gonna cleric.

Boudica looks over the boy to make sure he's OK then he begins to get him awake as fast as she can. "Stefan! Pay attention! Why are you here? Why did you come here? Who brought you? Do you wish to go or stay? Reply quickly, before our hosts arrive!"

Stefan (Costache)

Apr 19, 2025 7:36 pm

Apr 19, 2025 7:36 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Stefan blinks slowly "I met... Magda," fatigue makes it hard for him to focus "She said her daughter was sick. That only I could help her." He shifts slightly beneath the blanket "She said it would only take a couple hours" His eyes move to the window, narrowing against the light. "It’s still afternoon, right? I only just got here..."
It looks like he is completely unaware that he walked for the entire day, and the night that followed "My legs are killing me..."

Miyana, who is standing outside the room with her bow ready, now sees the bloated Magda walking down the stairs, behind her follows another figure: an ancient, hunched woman in a black robe, her face mostly hidden beneath the cowl, though a few strands of bone white hair spill down over her shoulders.

Apr 19, 2025 7:59 pm

Apr 19, 2025 7:59 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica shakes the boy and says, "You fool, you've been gone for two days! And that is no woman, and her daughter isn't either. They are some kind of wood fey, or witches, or hags. We are all in danger! You must get up and come with us. There will be danger, but there will be much more if we tarry. Now move!"

Apr 19, 2025 9:21 pm

Apr 19, 2025 9:21 pm

Whispers in the Woods

You’re about to be used for a ritual, Stefan. We need you to come with us, please, and we need to leave right now.
Will gestures at the door, and readies Icy Bronze.

Apr 20, 2025 4:29 am

Apr 20, 2025 4:29 am

Whispers in the Woods

"Too late! Is there another way out?" Miyana points her bow at Magda. "Don't move! I don't want to hurt you!"

Stefan (Costache)

Apr 20, 2025 4:40 am

Apr 20, 2025 4:40 am

Whispers in the Woods

Stefan blinks "Two... days?" he rubs his eyes with both hands "No, it was just this morning... wasn't it?"
He looks around the room, the alarm in Boudica’s voice failing to register. "I don’t... I’m so tired..." He swings his legs over the side of the bed, but his movements are slow and clumsy. "I just need a minute... everything’s spinning..."

From outside the room, Boudica can hear the sound of an incantation...

Apr 20, 2025 4:42 am

Apr 20, 2025 4:42 am

Whispers in the Woods

Magda’s smile never falters, but her eyes narrow, and the warmth drains from her voice.

"My daughter is not to be threatened" comes a brittle voice from behind her.

The robed crone lifts one trembling hand, fingers curled like claws, and begins to chant in a voice full of old spite
Magda mirrors her mother, raising both slightly, wrists bent, and whispers

Rolls

Initative for Madga - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Initative for Veinia - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Apr 20, 2025 6:40 am

Apr 20, 2025 6:40 am

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica relies what is happening and decides to wait within the room for the spells to go off. She'd rather not have the entire party fall to a single spell! Once it sounds as if the spells have gone off, she runs out into the hallway and closes with the old women, shield up, mace swinging.

Rolls

Init - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Mace - Atk. - (1d20+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Mace - Dmg. - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Apr 20, 2025 11:09 am

Apr 20, 2025 11:09 am

Whispers in the Woods

Will charges the old woman and attacks.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Icy Bronze - Atk. - (1d20+4)

(6) + 4 = 10

Icy Bronze - (Known Dmg. - (1d8+4)

(2) + 4 = 6

Apr 20, 2025 7:59 pm

Apr 20, 2025 7:59 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana lets fly an arrow at Magda.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Miyana bow attack - (1d20+2, 1d6)

1d20+2 : (13) + 2 = 15

1d6 : (3) = 3

Apr 21, 2025 4:48 pm

Apr 21, 2025 4:48 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton stays with Stefan, "Stay behind me, let the warriors do their thing, we only fight if we absolutely must" he grabbed a dagger and handed it to Stefan, "...only if we must"

OOC:

Sorry for the delay

Rolls

Initiative - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Apr 21, 2025 6:57 pm

Apr 21, 2025 6:57 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"YEEEEEOW!" Magda screeches when Miyana's arrow buries itself deep into her swollen shoulder. Her incantation unravels before it could take shape, and clutching the wound with her sausage-like fingers, she glares at Miyana with eyes full of venom.

OOC:

Miyana goes first on the initiate count (due to her high dex), and manages to disrupt Magda's spell

Apr 21, 2025 7:03 pm

Apr 21, 2025 7:03 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The hunched crone stands behind her daughter. Her gnarled hands trace invisible runes in the air, And then... you feel it. A pressure builds behind your eyes. Muscles tighten, your breath grows shallow. The desire to move remains, but the connection to your limbs is slipping, and it takes every ounce of your willpower to remain standing on your feet.

OOC:

Veinia casts 'Hold Person' on Miyana. Save vs spells with -2 penalty.
Will's and Boudica's attack missed.
You can take roll initiative and take your actions for the next round.

Rolls

Magda Initiative for round 2 - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Veinia Initiative for round 2 - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Stefan (Costache)

Apr 21, 2025 7:05 pm

Apr 21, 2025 7:05 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Stefan takes the dagger from Anton with trembling hands. He looks to the door, hearing the mumbling of spells from the two hags, then back at the window above his bed. Jumping out of the second-floor window was starting to look more and more enticing by the moment.

OOC:

@Madclergy - you can still take an action for the first round, if you wish.

Apr 21, 2025 8:27 pm

Apr 21, 2025 8:27 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Am I able to see the Hags from where I am with Stefan?

Apr 21, 2025 10:17 pm

Apr 21, 2025 10:17 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica knew she might be out of her league here, fighting two hags. So, rather than trying to beat them to death, slowly, with her mace, she pointed at the older woman in back and attempted to cast Light on her eyes, blinding her!

[ +- ] Light Spell Details

OOC:

The extra old hag has to make a save vs spells

Rolls

Initiative - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Apr 22, 2025 4:38 am

Apr 22, 2025 4:38 am

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana feels her muscles locking up and tries to resist. Slowly, painfully, she manages to overcome the effects of the evil magic. With supreme effort, she manages to load another arrow into her bow and draw back for another shot, this time at Veinia!

Last edited April 22, 2025 4:42 am

Rolls

Save vs. spells (16+) - (1d20+1)

(17) + 1 = 18

Initiative - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Attack and damage - (1d20+2, 1d6)

1d20+2 : (15) + 2 = 17

1d6 : (2) = 2

Apr 22, 2025 6:44 pm

Apr 22, 2025 6:44 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will swings Icy Bronze at the older hunched drone once again!

Rolls

Init - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Sword - Atk. - (1d20+4)

(8) + 4 = 12

Sword - Dmg. - (1d8+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Apr 22, 2025 7:24 pm

Apr 22, 2025 7:24 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana's arrow buries itself deep in Veinia's side. The hag shrikes, and her hands falter to clutch her abdomen, where the wound seeps black ooze to the floor. She stumbles backward, just in time to avoid Will's sword slicing in her direction, cursing at the young warrior beneath her breath.

But Magda never takes her eyes off Miyana. Burning hate on her face, she whispers as her clawed fingers twist in the air. This time, her incantation doesn't falter. Your hair rises on your arms and the back of your neck. A low, humming vibration builds, and you can almost taste the metal in the air.

OOC:

@WhtKnt - I need another spell SV from you.
@Madclergy - you still have an action from round 1, and you can take a turn for this round as well.
Veinia's spell fizzles, as she was hit by Miyana before she could get it off.

Rolls

Saving throw for Veinia (light spell) - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Secret Roll

Apr 22, 2025 7:29 pm

Apr 22, 2025 7:29 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"HA---EEEEEEEEE!"

The light burst detonates like a miniature sun, an unnatural radiance that burns though the gloom of her cowl and clings to her like a brand. She shrieks and claws at her own face, reeling backward, trying to put as much distance between her and the warrior brandishing the sword.

OOC:

Veinia failed her saving throw. She is blinded and can't attack (or target anyone with a spell).

Rolls

lightning bolt! - (5d6)

(45532) = 19

Apr 22, 2025 9:03 pm

Apr 22, 2025 9:03 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana smells the metallic smell and feels her hair standing up. Knowing what that means, she attempts to get out of the path of the incoming spell.

Rolls

Save vs. spells (16+) - (1d20+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Apr 23, 2025 1:31 pm

Apr 23, 2025 1:31 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton watches as the fight breaks out, arrows, swords, sorcery, flying about. He quickly looks at Magda and speaks a word of power and summons a brightly purple glowing dart that fires unerringly at Magda!

He then took the opportunity to heave a dagger at Magda s a follow up!

OOC:

He casts Magic Missile for round 1
Throwing a Dagger for round 2

Rolls

Magic Missile Damage - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Dagger x5 - Atk. - (1d20+0)

(3) = 3

Dagger x5 - Dmg. - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Apr 23, 2025 5:49 pm

Apr 23, 2025 5:49 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Die, Harlot! Die!!!"

Magda thrusts her hands forward, and a jagged bolt of lightning erupts from her finger. It slams into Miyana, the force lifting her off her feet and sending her flying backward to the ground. Her muscles seizes instantly once the electric current passed through her body, and for a moment, she can't move, or even breath. But before Magda can savor the moment, a streak of arcane energy slams into her chest. She staggers backward with a snarl, looking up at Anton who emerged out of the room.

"Fool! I would have let you live! Now you'll die here, with the others!!!"

OOC:

That's 19 damage from the lightning bolt [ref]
You can roll initiative and for your actions for round 3.
Magda is fairly hurt, and Veinia is currently incapacitated, though the two hags continue to chant

Rolls

Magda Initiative for round 3 - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Veinia Initiative for round 3 - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Apr 23, 2025 9:08 pm

Apr 23, 2025 9:08 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will takes a swing at the incapacitated hag, hoping to finish her off!

Rolls

Init - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Sword - Atk. - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Sword - Dmg. - (1d8+4)

(5) + 4 = 9

Apr 23, 2025 9:44 pm

Apr 23, 2025 9:44 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana forces herself to rise, ignoring the lingering pain in her joints. The lightning bolt had hurt her badly, but she had no intention of letting Magda or her demonic mother know that. She knows that this day she may meet her end, but she will do her best to fell a foe before that happens! She draws back another arrow and lets it fly at Magda.

EDIT: Forgot my initiative roll.

Last edited April 23, 2025 11:50 pm

Rolls

Attack and damage - (1d20+2, 1d6)

1d20+2 : (20) + 2 = 22

1d6 : (2) = 2

Initiative - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Apr 23, 2025 10:40 pm

Apr 23, 2025 10:40 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Alright, two 20’s in one round!

Apr 23, 2025 10:47 pm

Apr 23, 2025 10:47 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Was my thrown dagger on this round, or last round?

Rolls

Initiative - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Apr 23, 2025 11:42 pm

Apr 23, 2025 11:42 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica steps forward and brandishes her mace, trying to strike Magda!

Rolls

Mace - Atk. - (1d20+1)

(8) + 1 = 9

Mace - Dmg. - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Initiative - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Apr 24, 2025 7:31 pm

Apr 24, 2025 7:31 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will's sword strikes the blinded witch. The unnaturally ice-cold steel sinks into her twisted form, and as the blade makes contact, aa supernatural cold freezes the very life force in her vein. She gasps, as her very essence is stripped away from her. Her skin turns deathly white, whatever warmth still in her veins stolen away. She stumbles back, her hands clutching her side, looking upon the young warrior with genuine fear in her eyes.

The two witches didn't live to their ripe old age by fighting adventurers to the bitter end.

Will’s strike forced their hand. Veinia mutters a quick incantation, and dark shadows spill from her fingers, swallowing the light that had been blinding her. Magda, in the meantime, heaves with a gurgling, wet sound, and with a sudden lurch, hurls a mass of sticky webbing from her mouth. The webbing unfurls in an instant, coating the staircase in heavy, sticky spider web strands - but not before the two hags took a couple of steps up, retreating as the web blocks the only path forward.

OOC:

The two hags decide to escape. They already spent most of their spells, and are pretty hurt.
Will - your sword sapped the very life essence from the hag, and you feel rejuvenated and elated. gain 1d6 temporary HP.
What do you do now? Would you like to pursue the hags upstairs? Leave with Stefan? Explore the rest of the tree house?

Apr 24, 2025 7:43 pm

Apr 24, 2025 7:43 pm

Whispers in the Woods

We should get the youngster back home, then return here and explore further.

Rolls

Temp Hp - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Apr 24, 2025 7:53 pm

Apr 24, 2025 7:53 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Happy to see the hags retreat, Boudica says, "We should pursue them and end their evil once and for all! if they do not, we will be condemning the next child they steal to a fate worse than death. Besides, if we let them live, we will have made two powerful enemies today."

OOC:

Boudica is the holy warrior. Me, I'm fine either way.

Apr 24, 2025 7:56 pm

Apr 24, 2025 7:56 pm

Whispers in the Woods

I don’t disagree. I’m willing to pursue them with you, but we must protect the boy.
Will looks at his other companions for their druthers.

Last edited April 24, 2025 7:57 pm

Apr 24, 2025 9:37 pm

Apr 24, 2025 9:37 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods and says, "you’re right…what do the rest of you think?"

While they decide, Boudica stows her mace and pulls out a tinderbox and torch, and begins trying to light it. She comments, "In case we decide to clear these webs…"

Apr 25, 2025 2:49 am

Apr 25, 2025 2:49 am

Whispers in the Woods

"I have to admit that I am in no shape to face them again. I say we let them go and return later to finish the task. We must get the boy home!"

Apr 25, 2025 11:08 am

Apr 25, 2025 11:08 am

Whispers in the Woods

"We could raze their lair here before we go, maybe that will force them to relocate. But it would also mean we wouldn't be able to find them as easily, if they choose to come back."

Apr 25, 2025 12:18 pm

Apr 25, 2025 12:18 pm

Whispers in the Woods

A good thought, Anton, but we are in a forest. I wouldn’t want the fire to blaze too out of control. And…as I consider the idea of exploring further…we may get more treasure, and perhaps even some items to help the village. And I agree with Boudica, we should try vanquishing this evil, hopefully while they are hurt and more vulnerable.

Apr 25, 2025 3:45 pm

Apr 25, 2025 3:45 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"I imagine they couldn't have gone too far then, maybe they have an underground lair beneath the roots of this tree?"

Apr 25, 2025 4:17 pm

Apr 25, 2025 4:17 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Keep the boy close, Will directs his companions. Then our fightery fellow begins to proceed cautiously upstairs in pursuit.

Apr 25, 2025 8:35 pm

Apr 25, 2025 8:35 pm

Whispers in the Woods

It'll be a few minutes before the sticky webbing dissolves. As you wait, you hear footsteps approaching from the floor below

Apr 25, 2025 8:37 pm

Apr 25, 2025 8:37 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica says, "If we ignite these webs as we leave, it could burn the tree. But there is a ring of cleared ground around it, as well as an imposing wall that separates it from the rest of the forest. I doubt we'd burn the forest down. But I understand your worry. I will defer to the group."

Apr 25, 2025 8:42 pm

Apr 25, 2025 8:42 pm

Whispers in the Woods

How about we explore a bit, and then burn the tree?

Apr 25, 2025 8:48 pm

Apr 25, 2025 8:48 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica hesitates, saying, "But we shouldn't tarry. They are likely at this very moment recovering from their wounds and repairing to attack again. We might not be so lucky next time. But still, we can certainly glance around as we go."

Apr 26, 2025 11:19 am

Apr 26, 2025 11:19 am

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Can we burn the webs, in order to use the stairs going up, or might that effectively set the whole tree ablaze?

Apr 26, 2025 7:45 pm

Apr 26, 2025 7:45 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Our villains went up, so I say we explore the first floor, then see if the webbing is clear after that, and finally explore the basement.

Apr 26, 2025 10:35 pm

Apr 26, 2025 10:35 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods and says, "Agreed." She heads down, checking in each room as she goes.

Last edited April 26, 2025 10:35 pm

Apr 26, 2025 11:18 pm

Apr 26, 2025 11:18 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana heaves a heavy sigh and steels herself, following the others. "Would anyone mind if I partake of the potion of healing to recover a little?"

Apr 26, 2025 11:20 pm

Apr 26, 2025 11:20 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods and says, "I think you should, yes."

Apr 26, 2025 11:23 pm

Apr 26, 2025 11:23 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana drinks the potion down.

Rolls

Healing potion - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Apr 26, 2025 11:26 pm

Apr 26, 2025 11:26 pm

Whispers in the Woods

She sighs again as the potion takes effect, leaving her feeling only slightly better. "Okay, ready as I'm ever going to be."

Apr 27, 2025 9:27 am

Apr 27, 2025 9:27 am

Whispers in the Woods

https://i.imgur.com/TAXKDs5.jpeg

You begin your descent to the first floor, when turning the corner in the spiral staircase you nearly collide with an unexpected figure. She is a young woman, strikingly beautiful, with lustrous hair that flows all the way down to her ankles. Her eyes go wide with shock as she takes a look at you, and once she notices you are all armed, the wicker basket she is holding slips from her fingers, scattering bright red apples across the floor.

"Wh-Who are you?" She takes an instinctive step backward "What are you doing here?"

OOC:

@WhtKnt you can roll another 1d6+1 and add it to your hp total for the healing potion.

Apr 27, 2025 10:57 am

Apr 27, 2025 10:57 am

Whispers in the Woods

I’m Will, these are my associates. We’ve come to rescue Stefan. Who are you, and what are you doing here?

Apr 27, 2025 11:04 am

Apr 27, 2025 11:04 am

Whispers in the Woods

"Who's Stefan?" she looks at your suspiciously "I'm Moryana. I live here"

Apr 27, 2025 11:09 am

Apr 27, 2025 11:09 am

Whispers in the Woods

He’s the person we’re rescuing, Will replies simply, gesturing at Stefan. What do you mean, m’Lady, when you say you live here? Were you born here, or did the elder lady of the house take you in from elsewhere?

Last edited April 27, 2025 11:28 am

Apr 27, 2025 12:52 pm

Apr 27, 2025 12:52 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The young woman looks to Stefan, then back to Will.
"I… I’m Magda’s daughter. She's...." she stammers, looking for a moment at the apples at her feet, as though she regrated saying anything at all. She clasps her hands together, fidgeting nervously, then looks up at Will again.

"You’re here to take him away…" her voice drops to barely above a whisper "Can I come with you?"

Apr 27, 2025 12:56 pm

Apr 27, 2025 12:56 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Why do you want to come with us? Are you ok?

Apr 27, 2025 1:45 pm

Apr 27, 2025 1:45 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica's eyes narrow as the young woman appears. She had heard tales that hags work in covens of three. "Careful, Will, Magda had mentioned a daughter, and we have no reason to believe this girl is here against her will. Remember, someone lured Stefan here... She would likely do well for that, yes?"

Apr 27, 2025 2:23 pm

Apr 27, 2025 2:23 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will asks the girl warily, Why do you want to come with us?

Apr 27, 2025 3:18 pm

Apr 27, 2025 3:18 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana merely regards the girl with a careful stare.

Rolls

Moar healing! - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Apr 27, 2025 10:03 pm

Apr 27, 2025 10:03 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Aye, a Maiden, a Mother, and a Crone. Answer Will!'s question Moryana" Anton still stood in front of Stefan, in case Moryana wasn't as innocent as she appeared.

Apr 28, 2025 3:47 am

Apr 28, 2025 3:47 am

Whispers in the Woods

The young woman begins to panic as Boudica’s suspicion grows "I didn’t lure anyone!" she insists "It is all my mother's doing" she pauses, her face blushing slightly, and her voice trembles as she averts her eyes "She wants a granddaughter"

Her hands fidget again as she looks up "Please. You have to get me out of here. I don’t want to end up like them."

Apr 28, 2025 10:25 am

Apr 28, 2025 10:25 am

Whispers in the Woods

We intend to explore the lower levels, and then we intend to confront your mother and her older crone once again before we depart. Will you help us?

Apr 28, 2025 1:14 pm

Apr 28, 2025 1:14 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica glances at Stefan and then asks Will, "I thought we were getting Stefan to safety first?"

She sizes up the girl and sighs. "I'm ok with bringing her along if everyone else is. I would rather err on the side of compassion than suspicion." She turns to the girl and asks, "We will try to get you to safety. Can you tell us how to pass the hedge wall outside?"

Apr 28, 2025 4:41 pm

Apr 28, 2025 4:41 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Veinia" Moryana murmurs when Will mentions an 'older crone' "She’s my grandmother"

She recoils slightly when he suggests she joins them to confront the witches, looking behind his back as if she expects to see them appearing out of the shadows "I... I’m not sure about that" she stammers. "I don’t want to hurt anyone. I just want to leave."

She continues to fidget restlessly, more so the more she realizes they haven't quite delt with the witches "We need to get out of here. Before they come back," she lowers her voice to a whisper "There are potions in their ritual chamber. One of them… it can dissolve the hedges."

Apr 28, 2025 4:47 pm

Apr 28, 2025 4:47 pm

Whispers in the Woods

When they come back, if they come back, they’ll fall by my blade. But very well, we’ll get you and the boy to safety first. Take us to these potions, por favor!

Apr 28, 2025 5:22 pm

Apr 28, 2025 5:22 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods and follows, keeping her guard up.

Apr 28, 2025 7:55 pm

Apr 28, 2025 7:55 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana follows at the rear of the party, fully expecting trouble, bow at the ready.

Apr 29, 2025 4:14 am

Apr 29, 2025 4:14 am

Whispers in the Woods

Without saying another word Moryana leads you to a dark, bare patch of floor near the entrance on the first floor. At first glance there's nothing unusual about it; just a stretch of twisted bark like the rest of the tree. But then she reaches down and presses her hand into a hidden knot within the wood, and the bark groans and begins to twist, splitting apart to reveal a spiral tunnel descending steeply into the earth.

"Through here" She hesitates as she stands at the edge, clearly reluctant to go in. But staying behind, and risking the hags' return, seems like the worse option. Swallowing hard, and trembling, she steps forward and begins to walk down the tunnel.

The passage is tight. The walls are lined with tangled roots, the floor is uneven, and in some spots, spongy, like walking across old, wet moss. You have to duck as the tunnel narrows, brushing past strands of hanging moss and the occasional bone charm swaying in the stale air.

At the end, the tunnel opens into a vast, hollow chamber beneath the heart of the tree. It wasn't carved by tools; it feels as if the tree itself hollowed and rotted from the inside, then was repurposed for darker needs. The chamber is dimly lit by the same firefly-filled lamps seen upstairs, casting a cold, blue glow across the interior. The centerpiece of the room is a massive cauldron - wide enough to submerge a grown man. The tables around the cauldron are stacked with grim materials - open jars of body organs, dried animal parts, strange powders and bottles filled with swirling liquid. A heavy ritual tome sits open on a plinth nearby, its pages inked in what looks like blood.

And then there are the cages.

They dominate the perimeter of the room, maybe a dozen of them, woven from twisted roots and reinforced with bone. Each one holds a wild creature stolen from the forest above: foxes with matted fur and lifeless eyes, wounded badgers licking old scars, ravens with clipped wings, and even a pair of snakes coiled in tight, sluggish knots.

As you pass, a few snarl softly or hiss, but most are too weak or broken to react, not able to do much besides blink at you with hollow, hopeless stares.

Apr 29, 2025 4:44 am

Apr 29, 2025 4:44 am

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica looks sadly at the collection of creatures here. Any that would not pose a threat to her or her friends she will release, hoping they find their way up the stairs and out to freedom—if they are strong enough to flee at all. As she moves around the room, she keeps her eyes open for anything useful that might be lying on these tables.

Apr 29, 2025 12:34 pm

Apr 29, 2025 12:34 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Our fighters fellow assists his clerical friend with releasing captured animals, and then Will also checks the table for interesting items.

Apr 30, 2025 3:32 am

Apr 30, 2025 3:32 am

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana watches approvingly as the others release the captive animals. She remains alert, bow every ready.

Apr 30, 2025 5:13 am

Apr 30, 2025 5:13 am

Whispers in the Woods

It’s sad, but none of the animals are in any condition to survive out in the wild. The fox flinches when Boudica moves to its cage, and its limbs actually tremble from fright, as if it was expecting her to hurt it. It is emaciated, shaky, and could merely blink at her in the low light with one of its eyes, as the other one is nearly swollen shut. The badger growls at her, but doesn’t attack, before huddling in the corner of its cage. The only animal that dares leave its cage is the raven with the clipped wings, who hops on its legs and tilts its head to look at her.

Moryana stands still amid it all, looking dejected at the pitiful menagerie. She only snaps out of it when she notices Boudica walking toward the tables.

"I...I think we can save them" she turns and joins them. Hands trembling she leans in closer to inspect the row of bottles on the table "That would dissolve the hedges. And anything else it touches" she warns Will, before handing him a vial filled with black ichor. Then, with a relieved sigh, she reaches out for a bottle with a pinkish swirl "It’s a potent regenerative potion" she looks back at the animals "They’re small. Maybe if we let each of them drink a little...."

Apr 30, 2025 5:14 am

Apr 30, 2025 5:14 am

Whispers in the Woods

The table is cluttered with unlabeled potions. Some glowing, some steaming, or bubbling. There is an assortment of spell components (sulfur, crushed bones, guano, a pouch filled with fine sand, and more), animal body parts in various stages of rot, a human skull, a collection of horribly looking sharp and jagged knives, and a bone wand which was carved from what might once have been a human femur. Looking inside the massive bubbling cauldron would be enough to make anyone retch. Aside the stink, you are pretty sure you can see human body parts floating inside the green broth.

Apr 30, 2025 10:43 am

Apr 30, 2025 10:43 am

Whispers in the Woods

Out the Raven back in its cage. We’ll regenerate them outside, then release them. Let’s dissolve the hedges, then we’ll deal with the crones.
Will gently picks up the wounded raven in gauntleted hands, and places it back in the cage.

Last edited April 30, 2025 11:47 am

Apr 30, 2025 1:38 pm

Apr 30, 2025 1:38 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton looked over the ingredients, and the assorted liquids as Moryana points them out, he still doesn't trust the young lady. He tries to work through it and see if he can glean some truth to her words backed up by his own knowledge of the arcane arts.

OOC:

Do you need me to make a check to confirm whether these potions will do as she said, can I tell by the components gathered what the Hags were up to?

Apr 30, 2025 2:01 pm

Apr 30, 2025 2:01 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"But how will we get all these cages up there?" there were a dozen of them, and she didn't think she could carry even one. Especially not if there was also a wounded animal inside "- I'm sorry" she immediately corrected herself, almost as a reflex "I didn't mean to speak out of turn"

OOC:

It will take an 'identify' spell to know what each potion is with certainty (and there are quite alot of them). He might guess that the brownish-yellowish potion is a 'filter of love' (it looks identical to the ones they retrieved from Mistamere castle), but brewing potions is more of an art, so it might also be something entirely different. The hags used this chamber for some sort of ritual magic, but Anton can't tell what exactly for sure, since their magic is very different than the one he has been taught

Apr 30, 2025 2:25 pm

Apr 30, 2025 2:25 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Let’s go deal with the witches, and then we’ll pack these cages out as time allows.
Anyone not ok with that?

Apr 30, 2025 3:59 pm

Apr 30, 2025 3:59 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica says, "We had decided to get Stefan and now Moryana out first. Let’s take that potion, go dissolve the hedge, and get them to safety. Then we can return and deal with the hags and save the animals.

Apr 30, 2025 4:48 pm

Apr 30, 2025 4:48 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Very well, I think that’s an excellent way to go. Keep the boy and the girl close, and safe.
Will takes the potion, and heads over to begin dissolving hedges.

May 1, 2025 6:18 pm

May 1, 2025 6:18 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"What about the raven? It could fly away once we healed it. And I can carry the fox on my arms..." Moryana tried to negotiate. Asking someone else to carry the toad, or the two constrictor snakes, was probably pushing her luck, but maybe one of them would volunteer to take the squirrel, or badger, or any of the others...

May 1, 2025 6:20 pm

May 1, 2025 6:20 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will climbs back through the tunnel to the first floor. The door to the tree-house stands open, but the path to the hedge-wall is blocked. At least two dozen grey-skinned, hairless men stand between him and escape, staring at him with blank faces. Some brandish swords, while others wield tools of their trade; hedge shears, hatchets, skinning knives, and pitchforks—all of which could easily be used for lethal purposes.

May 1, 2025 8:48 pm

May 1, 2025 8:48 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Ho, there! What’re you men doing here?

May 1, 2025 8:59 pm

May 1, 2025 8:59 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica agrees to carry as many animals as she can, knowing that she might have to drop them if it came to combat.

When the emergency from the tree and see the gray skinned men, she looks to Moryana and asks, "Can you control them?"

May 2, 2025 1:59 am

May 2, 2025 1:59 am

Whispers in the Woods

"Yes Moryana, can you control these gray skinned men?" Anton looked questioningly, nearly accusatorily, to the young woman

May 2, 2025 4:35 am

May 2, 2025 4:35 am

Whispers in the Woods

Seeing the men, Miyana merely glares at Moryana through narrowed eyes, keeping her bow trained on the closest of the men.

May 2, 2025 9:07 am

May 2, 2025 9:07 am

Whispers in the Woods

"They’ll only listen to Magda" Moryana voice strained from holding the fox in her arms, her face pale with exhaustion. "I... I don’t think they want us to leave." As she spoke, the gray-skinned men moved closer, forming a half-circle around the front door. They don't attack just yet, but they stand so tightly together it would be impossible to squeeze through.

May 2, 2025 1:28 pm

May 2, 2025 1:28 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Nope.
Will quickly estimates 24 grey-skinners. Emerald eyes glance at his four friends, and he adds, Unless we each want five of them, I think we need to return into the Tree, and find a way to break the spell keeping them guarding sentry.
Our fightery fellow looks at Moryana and says plainly, I think we'll have to deal with mother and grandmother.

May 2, 2025 11:46 pm

May 2, 2025 11:46 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods. She turns to Moryana and says, "Where can you and Stefan hide that is at least someone safe, or out of the way? We need to ascend and deal with them. OH! And do you think that potion that can burn through the hedges could burn through their webs?"

Stefan (Costache)

May 3, 2025 2:46 pm

May 3, 2025 2:46 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"I just want to get out of here" Stefan, looking more dejected then before, lowered his head with defeat. He slowly stepped backward into the house, until they figured out what to do

May 3, 2025 2:52 pm

May 3, 2025 2:52 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"They're not particularly bright" Moryana murmured. The men continued to stare at her blankly. None seemed offended, or even aware, that she was talking about them "- They follow orders to the letter."

The fox in her arms was growing heavier by the second, and it looked like it was running out of patience of being carried by someone. With a reluctant sigh, she crouched and carefully set the wounded creature down.

"The potion will burn through anything, yes" she replied to Boudica. She had no idea what kind of 'web' she meant, but if the ichor could eat through stone and steel, it would likely handle a web just as easily.

May 3, 2025 3:25 pm

May 3, 2025 3:25 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"If we defeat the two hags, what will happen to the gray men, I wonder? Well, in any event, we have decided. Back upstairs with the potion to dissolve the webs and to pursue them up the stairs. Moryana, is there anything you can tell us about what to expect up there? And is there anything we can do to prepare, or weapons to bring? Can you help? Please."

May 3, 2025 3:50 pm

May 3, 2025 3:50 pm

Whispers in the Woods

After heartfelt discussion is completed, our fighters fellow leads his compaions back upstairs, with the potion, to dissolve wickedly wound webbing.

May 3, 2025 7:33 pm

May 3, 2025 7:33 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"I… I don’t know" Moryana stammers as she looks away. "They warned me never to open the doors to their rooms. Said they were protected by magic" she crossed her arms tightly, swaying slightly from side to side "Grandmother’s staff can become a venomous serpent. And Mother… she turns people into animals. Pigs, mostly"

She paused, and glanced up
"Some of the potions in their lab… maybe they can help you. But they are dangerous. All of them"

May 3, 2025 7:35 pm

May 3, 2025 7:35 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Moryana reluctantly follows Will up the stairs. The webbing has already melted on its own, and the path to the third floor is clear. The topmost floor is similar to the second - three locked 'doors', without a keyhole or hinges, and soft firefly lamps casting the room in purplish light.

What do you do?

May 3, 2025 8:02 pm

May 3, 2025 8:02 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Before we go up, let’s get those potions. We’ll need all the help we can get.
Will helps secure the potions from the lab. Then, eventually with his friends, he goes upstairs.

May 3, 2025 8:15 pm

May 3, 2025 8:15 pm

Whispers in the Woods

While Will fetches the potions, Boudica makes sure that Moryana and Stefan can be tucked away safely while the rest of them fight.

May 4, 2025 4:25 pm

May 4, 2025 4:25 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"I wonder if the potion would dissolve the grey men... or flesh," Miyana adds with a note of finality.

May 4, 2025 4:30 pm

May 4, 2025 4:30 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica shrugs and says, "Maybe! But do we have enough? There's 12 of them... I'm hoping killing the hags will shut them down."

May 4, 2025 7:58 pm

May 4, 2025 7:58 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Yes, the potions should probably be tossed immediately at the hags soon as we see them. What happens, happens.

May 4, 2025 7:59 pm

May 4, 2025 7:59 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Moryana looks genuinely horrified at the suggestion of throwing the dissolving potion ON someone. She says nothing, however, and follows you back down to the basement in silence. Once there, she positions herself by the tables and begins cataloging the potions. Most of them are poisons - either 'harmless' brews that make their victims fall asleep, to deadly ones that will shut down your body in a chocking paralysis.

There are also more disturbing vials: one that ‘summons’ a giant centipede ('it grows inside your gut'), a resurrection potion that revives the dead ('but you wouldn't want him back'), another that turns the drinker's blood into corrosive acid ('will harm anyone or anything who cuts you'), and Blisterwine—a grotesque concoction that erupts the skin with swollen, throbbing warts, each leaking a toxic gas.

May 5, 2025 12:33 am

May 5, 2025 12:33 am

Whispers in the Woods

"I do not trust that Moryana, pretty face, just lives here with those hags?" Anton added to the conversation

May 5, 2025 3:30 am

May 5, 2025 3:30 am

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica acknowledges Anton's suspicions, but says, "I have heard tales of hags kidnapping young girls and transforming them into hags to complete their coven. They need three, at least in the tales I've heard. Then again, those tales also say the hags all share a single eye... so maybe they can't be trusted. In any event, the die is cast. We go now to face the hags."

May 5, 2025 12:50 pm

May 5, 2025 12:50 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Strange indeed, the daughter doesn’t seem too concerned about us assailing her mother and grandmother. Not concerned enough to say anything about it, at least. Tells me, she probably was indeed kidnapped, charmed, all that.
One of you want to throw the Blisterwine at them? I’m more a straight-up fighter, myself.

Last edited May 5, 2025 12:54 pm

May 5, 2025 3:02 pm

May 5, 2025 3:02 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"I was thinking more of throwing the dissolving potion at them. We can burn the thornwall down, should it come to that. We need to be rid of them as quickly as possible." Miyana shudders, remembering too vividly the lighting bolt incident.

May 5, 2025 3:58 pm

May 5, 2025 3:58 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will nods in fightery agreement.

May 6, 2025 3:51 am

May 6, 2025 3:51 am

Whispers in the Woods

Leaving Stefan and Moryana behind, you climb back to the topmost floor (this time carrying the potions), to find yourself in front of the three locked doors.

What do you do?

May 6, 2025 5:06 am

May 6, 2025 5:06 am

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica looks to her companions and says, "Do we have to batter down these doors?"

May 6, 2025 7:28 am

May 6, 2025 7:28 am

Whispers in the Woods

Maybe. I’ll check the door to see if it’s locked. Everyone ready?

OOC:

Once everyone’s in place, I’ll try opening the door.

Last edited May 6, 2025 2:40 pm

May 6, 2025 1:56 pm

May 6, 2025 1:56 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana is silent, but nods as she draws back her bowstring.

May 6, 2025 5:35 pm

May 6, 2025 5:35 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The doors are 'locked', though there isn't a keyhole or anything that would suggest these are, in fact, doors, save the slightly different coloration from the rest of the interior. They ARE made of wood, however. So if you had a handy axe and some time on your hands, or are willing to light it on fire, then it won't stand in your way for long.

May 6, 2025 5:49 pm

May 6, 2025 5:49 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica turns to the others and makes a proposal. "Do we need to kill these hags? What if we negotiate? We demand that they call of the gray men and open the hedge, and we and Stepan and Moryana will leave and not return. As long as they don't try to steal other people from the town, we'll leave them in peace. If they disagree, however, we burn down the tree with them in it and try to fight our way out through the gray men, or hide in the basement into the fire does its work. Otherwise, I'd advise looking for axes or setting this door on fire."

May 6, 2025 7:01 pm

May 6, 2025 7:01 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"I don't like leaving loose ends, particularly not loose ends that have shown what they are capable of," Miyana offers.

May 6, 2025 8:12 pm

May 6, 2025 8:12 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods, admitting Miyana's point. "You're right. OK then."

She rears back and begins to smack the first door with her mace.

May 6, 2025 9:25 pm

May 6, 2025 9:25 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton flinched at the sound of the loud thud against the wood of the 'doors'. "Well, there will be no element of surprise for sure" he says over the sound of the mace.

May 7, 2025 12:23 pm

May 7, 2025 12:23 pm

Whispers in the Woods

A heavy metal mace was not quite the optimal tool to smash through the door (an axe would have been handier), but it got the job done – eventually. Boudica smashed upon the door, again and again and again, until her arms were sore. But with each loud ‘thud’, the heavy wood started to give way, splintering under her blows. Finally, the door yielded; the wood buckled, and the entire frame gave way, creaking as it sagged inward.

Almost immediately, a wave of foul, humid air rolled out of the room.

The den inside was filthy. The ‘bed’ in the far corner of the room was basically a lump of rotting meat, crawling with so much maggots it looked like it was in motion. The floor around it was stained dark with grease, and the stink was overpowering. There were plates, bowls, pots and pans littering the room, some piled with scraps of meat, others picked down to the bone. None of them have ever been washed.
There were tattered garments scattered everywhere, most of them soaked with grime. A table at the center, overflowing with collected junk, had a grotesque, warty, bulbously toad sitting a top of it, right next to a melted candle. The toad doesn’t blink. It just watches you, even as the swarm of flies buzz around it.

The witch herself, however, is nowhere to be seen.

What do you do?

May 7, 2025 1:35 pm

May 7, 2025 1:35 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana doesn't hesitate, putting an arrow through the toad.

Rolls

Attack and damage - (1d20+2, 1d6)

1d20+2 : (9) + 2 = 11

1d6 : (3) = 3

May 7, 2025 4:21 pm

May 7, 2025 4:21 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will watches his elven friend’s arrow skewer the toadfish familiar.
If victory smelled bad, I’d be celebrating right now, Will quips. But seems our villain has given us the slip once again.
What say you, friends? Close this room back up, and explore the tree’s underbelly a bit? Or run the damsel and Stefan back to town and double back?

May 7, 2025 8:15 pm

May 7, 2025 8:15 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton was overran by the smell and immediately stepped back and lost his last meal onto the floor. When he was finished he wiped his mouth with his sleeve. "Sorry..." he said quietly to the others.

May 8, 2025 1:23 am

May 8, 2025 1:23 am

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica steps away, holding her nose, and wipes the sweat from her brow. She asks her friends, "Could someone else take the next door? A heavy sword might work better than my mace, for example."

May 8, 2025 11:48 am

May 8, 2025 11:48 am

Whispers in the Woods

The arrow pierces the toad cleanly. The bloated creature topples from the table, limbs twitching before going still. A few of the files scatter, but then soon after settle back on carcass.

There is silent for a moment. Before Boudica could find a volunteer to break down the second door, it is flung open with violence, and the two hags emerge from the darkness.

"You killed my sweetling! Now I’ll take your tongue for this!!!"

Rolls

Initative for Madga - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Initative for Veinia - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Secret Roll

May 8, 2025 6:17 pm

May 8, 2025 6:17 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will draws steel, and swings his sword at Magda!

Rolls

Init - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Sword - Atk. - (1d20+4)

(18) + 4 = 22

Sword - Dmg. - (1d8+4)

(6) + 4 = 10

May 8, 2025 7:05 pm

May 8, 2025 7:05 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana barely hesitates, drawing another arrow and nocking it before letting fly.

Last edited May 8, 2025 7:05 pm

Rolls

Initiative - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Attack/damage - (1d20+2, 1d6)

1d20+2 : (1) + 2 = 3

1d6 : (2) = 2

May 9, 2025 3:04 am

May 9, 2025 3:04 am

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica too leaps into action, swinging her mace as best she can.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Mace - Atk. - (1d20+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Mace - Dmg. - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

May 9, 2025 7:27 am

May 9, 2025 7:27 am

Whispers in the Woods

The two hags start chanting. Magda raised her heavy swollen arms and screamed the final words of her incantation, just before Will slashed her with his sword. Her cry came out like a howl, but the magic was already loose...

OOC:

casting 'hold person'. @Drgwen- pls roll saving throw vs spells.
@WhiteDwarf - let me know if you'd like to drain some of Magda's lifeforce when you slashed her with the sword you picked up from the wraith.
I'll give @Madclergy a chance to roll his action to interrupt Veinia's action before we move to the second round.

May 9, 2025 8:49 am

May 9, 2025 8:49 am

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Yes, Will will drain some life force.

May 9, 2025 7:00 pm

May 9, 2025 7:00 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton seeing the action erupt quickly retrieves and throws a dagger at Veinia!

Rolls

Dagger x5 - Atk / Dam - (1d20+0, 1d4)

1d20+0 : (14) = 14

1d4 : (1) = 1

initiative for Anton - (1d6)

(1) = 1

May 9, 2025 9:51 pm

May 9, 2025 9:51 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica feels the magic take hold and tries to resist...

Rolls

Save vs Spells, DC 15 - (1d20+1)

(19) + 1 = 20

May 9, 2025 10:09 pm

May 9, 2025 10:09 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Nice!

May 10, 2025 10:09 am

May 10, 2025 10:09 am

Whispers in the Woods

The old hag locks her eyes with Will. She raises her fingertip, and in an instant, three glowing missiles of arcane energy shot from the fingertips, and slam into his chest

OOC:

Anton slashed the old witch with his dagger, but too late to stop the spell.
Boudica managed to resist the spell, but both she and Miyana missed.
You can roll initiative and for your actions for round 2.
@WhiteDwarf - you gain another 1d6 temp hp, and drain a level from Magda

Rolls

magic missile - (3d6+3)

(222) + 3 = 9

Initative for Veinia - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Initiative for Magda - (1d6)

(5) = 5

May 10, 2025 10:48 am

May 10, 2025 10:48 am

Whispers in the Woods

Aaaahhhh….!
Reeling from missile damage, yet breathing in new energy, our fightery fellow swings Icy Bronze at Magda once again!

Last edited May 10, 2025 3:07 pm

Rolls

Energy Drain - (D6)

(5) = 5

Sword - Atk. - (1d20+4)

(13) + 4 = 17

Sword - Dmg. - (1d8+4)

(3) + 4 = 7

Init - (1d6)

(1) = 1

May 10, 2025 2:59 pm

May 10, 2025 2:59 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Will!" Anton was worried for their frontline combatant but he couldn't do anything to heal him of his wounds. For now he summoned up his last spell for the day, a spell he'd learned from the tome they found in Mistamere castle, hoping it would help to turn the tides. "Eget voce te dormi!"

OOC:

I'd like to cast Sleep on Magda, it will affect up to a single creature of up to 4+1 HD

Rolls

Initiative - (1d6)

(6) = 6

May 10, 2025 4:07 pm

May 10, 2025 4:07 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Magda lets out a gasp as Anton’s spell takes hold. Her eyes roll back, and with a groan the bloated hag slumps to the filthy floor, her massive form hitting the ground with a loud 'thud'

"Impossible!!!" The older hag whimpers with disbelief. She, too, felt the bite of the life draining sword, and now her hands tremble as she raises them slowly
"Wait" she rasps. "Spare us, and I’ll make it worth your while. Treasures, knowledge, secrets... we will do everything you ask" she then delivers a warning, looking at you with her milky-white eyes "You don't want to kill a hag of the forest. Our dying curse will rot your luck till the end of your days"

May 10, 2025 5:27 pm

May 10, 2025 5:27 pm

Whispers in the Woods

OOC:

Before I pen an IC post, could Will’s round-2 attack roll-over to the older hag?

Last edited May 10, 2025 5:27 pm

May 10, 2025 5:35 pm

May 10, 2025 5:35 pm

Whispers in the Woods

As the villainous Magda succumbs to magical slumber, Will raises Icy Bronze, and levels his blade at the elder hag.
So…we take your treasure, or we take our chances in life. We’ll do both.
Will swings his blade at the elder hag!

Last edited May 10, 2025 5:35 pm

May 11, 2025 12:20 am

May 11, 2025 12:20 am

Whispers in the Woods

"You who would have taken my tongue now expect mercy? I think not." Miyana loads another arrow and fires at the remaining hag.

Rolls

Attack and damage - (1d20+2, 1d6)

1d20+2 : (14) + 2 = 16

1d6 : (6) = 6

Initiative - (1d6)

(5) = 5

May 11, 2025 7:39 pm

May 11, 2025 7:39 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Veinia raises her withered hands in a futile gesture to protect herself, but Will's sword cleaves right through her. Black blood gushes from her wounds, and the old witch stumbles backward. She gasps something in a language none of you can understand through a mouthful of blood, before she collapses to the ground.

Magda's death is less dramatic; the bloated hag is sprawled on the floor in an unnatural sleep when the single arrow jerks her from her slumber. There is a low rattle from her throat, and then she too, goes silent.

The room darkens when the last breath leaves the hags bodies. The light of the fireflies flicker, a heavy gloom descends upon the room, and a cold wind seems to blow from the stairway.

May 11, 2025 7:52 pm

May 11, 2025 7:52 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica whispers a prayer of protection to her gods and sighs in relief. She looks over the two dead hags at her feet to see if they have anything of use on their persons. Then she would look into the room from which they emerged.

May 11, 2025 8:19 pm

May 11, 2025 8:19 pm

Whispers in the Woods

I’ve a bad feeling about this. We should leave immediately. Let’s retrieve the young ones.

May 11, 2025 8:25 pm

May 11, 2025 8:25 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Hearing Will’s ominous warning, Boudica decides not to enter their room and finishes checking the hags. She is ready to get out of here!

May 12, 2025 2:38 am

May 12, 2025 2:38 am

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana agrees and nocks another arrow before following the others out of the room.

May 12, 2025 8:42 am

May 12, 2025 8:42 am

Whispers in the Woods

After quickly searching the hags’ bodies you find a gnarled and twisted walking stick on Veinia (the one that Moryana claimed can turn into a venomous snake). Magda wears a thick iron ring on her swollen and bloated finger, but it is impossible to slip it free. It will take a blade if you want it.

Once you claimed what you can and descended back down the stairs, you find Moryana and Stefan huddled in the shadows near the basement passage – where you left them. Moryana stiffens a little when she sees you, especially at the sight of black blood on your weapons, but says nothing and falls behind you as you lead the two outside.

It is still dark from the dense canopy of woods, even though it should be noon by your reckoning. The grey men which previously blocked your way are now standing silently in the field with vacant eyes and blank faces, like living statues.

Stefan (Costache)

May 12, 2025 8:42 am

May 12, 2025 8:42 am

Whispers in the Woods

"Can we please get out of here?" Stefan looks between you and the silent and demure Moryana "These guys give me the creeps"

May 12, 2025 10:02 am

May 12, 2025 10:02 am

Whispers in the Woods

Will chops off the finger and absconds with the iron ring.

May 12, 2025 11:17 am

May 12, 2025 11:17 am

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica takes the walking stick and heads out, hoping to get Stefan and Moryana to safety.

May 12, 2025 12:55 pm

May 12, 2025 12:55 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will goes with, too!

May 12, 2025 4:28 pm

May 12, 2025 4:28 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana is already ready to get out of here and leads the way.

May 12, 2025 11:50 pm

May 12, 2025 11:50 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton joins the others, he really wanted to search for other relics, magical scrolls, potions, etc but he also did not want to have some ill omen befall him alone and never be seen from again.

May 13, 2025 8:23 am

May 13, 2025 8:23 am

Whispers in the Woods

Moryana kneels beside the injured fox once you make it out of the witches’ hut. The poor creature is lying curled in the dirt, sides rising and falling in uneven breaths. It doesn’t flinch when she gently titles its head and lets the drops from the potion fall onto its tongue.

A moment later, the swelling in its eyes begins to recede, the inflamed skin calms, and even the color and luster to its fur returns, until it seems health and lively again. The fox rises to its feet, and after a hesitant look it bolts away, pausing just once at the edge of the trees to look back at you before vanishing into the woods.

One by one, Moryana feeds the potion to the rest of the injured animals. The snakes slither away quickly through the grass, the badger following in their trail. Even the raven manages to flap its whole wings again, and with some initial effort, lifts itself into the air and flies away.

May 13, 2025 8:24 am

May 13, 2025 8:24 am

Whispers in the Woods

You start your journey back to Threshold. It is almost a full day march, and you’re already exhausted. There was a short path leading to the witches’ camp, but a few hours later it fades into the forest floor and you are forced to navigate using the sun. Once it drops below the tree line, you are left wrapped in shadows, whatever little moonlight swallowed by the tangled canopy. Finding your path in the darkness is uncertain, even with the light of the torches. What do you do?

OOC:

You can set up camp for the night, or try to press through. If you choose to travel, I’ll need a survival/wilderness or other appropriate skill check to see if you can navigate the forest at night without getting lost

May 13, 2025 10:36 am

May 13, 2025 10:36 am

Whispers in the Woods

Not safe to travel at night. Let’s set camp, in as protected an area as possible.

May 13, 2025 12:49 pm

May 13, 2025 12:49 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods in agreement, but says, "I fear you are right, Will, though I also feel uneasy remaining in the woods after what occurred. Moryana, do you know if the hags controlled all of the forest, or just their own grove? Do you think we will be safe here? And is there anything we can do to protect ourselves from their influence, even though we struck them down?"

May 13, 2025 6:09 pm

May 13, 2025 6:09 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Moryana looked toward the tree line, and the darkness that enveloped them. "I...I don't think they controlled the whole forest" she said slowly "There were paths I wasn't allowed to walk. Places even they didn't go. They sometimes spoke of the 'Lady of the Forest'. The way they said her name.... I don't think she was one of them. More like a spirit. Or a goddess. Something older. Wilder"

She trails off, then hugs her arms around herself as he looked away

"I’m sorry" her voice was barely a whisper "My mother was cruel. Even worse than you can imagine. She and Grandmother… they had plans for me. I think you stopped something terrible." Her voice raises a bit "It’s better this way. I know that. But…"

She doesn’t finish the thought. Instead, she reaches up and nervously strokes her long hair, twirling a strand around her fingers. It takes her a few moments to compose herself.

"I'm sorry. I was never allowed far from the glade" she manages to focus again "But I don’t think their power went far. I think we’ll be safe, if we’re careful."

Stefan (Costache)

May 13, 2025 6:20 pm

May 13, 2025 6:20 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Stefan clears his throat to speak up, and get your attention:

"I’ve heard of the Lady of the Forest. Old Misha used to tell stories about her, back in Threshold. Said he once went looking for her when he was a younger man" he pauses as he tries to remember the old man's exact words "He said he found her. Or maybe just caught a glimpse. It was enough. He was blind by the time he stumbled back to town. Claimed he’d seen such beauty that his eyes could never bear the sight of anything else again." He shakes his head as he remembers the old blind man "He said her voice could do the same to your ears. Not because it was loud, but because it was perfect. Like… once you heard it, you’d never want to hear another sound again"

He didn't know if it was just tall tales of an old blind man or not, but since Moryana did mention her, maybe there was some truth to it.

"Misha said she’s older than Halav himself! As old as the first groves... She can grant wishes, if she’s in the mood. But she’s fickle. Like the seasons; warm and gentle in Spring, cold and harsh in Winter"

The forest wind whispers through the trees when he finished talking, as if you were being listened to.

May 13, 2025 6:43 pm

May 13, 2025 6:43 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica nods in understanding as the two young people speak. She places a hand on Moryana's shoulder, consoling her about her loss. They may have been evil, but they were the only family she knew. And now they are gone.

When Stefan speaks of the Lady, Boudica whispers a prayer to the Three to guide her. Like most Traladarans, she reveres the wild places, especially forests, but she does not know the ways of worshipping being such as the Lady. She only hopes the goodness of her heart and furness of her intentions protects her from any ill will the Lady might bear.

May 13, 2025 7:15 pm

May 13, 2025 7:15 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Then if no one objects, I say we set up camp. I’ll take the first watch, unless someone else wishes it.

OOC:

Camp here, or move ahead? I’m ok either way.

Last edited May 13, 2025 7:32 pm

May 13, 2025 8:39 pm

May 13, 2025 8:39 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"I'll take a middle watch," Miyana offers. Though she does not voice it, she makes a silent wish to the Lady of the Forest that she guide them safely home with their charges.

May 13, 2025 11:14 pm

May 13, 2025 11:14 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"I can take last watch, I'll need time to prepare spells anyways" Anton shifted uncomfortably. He felt he may have judged Moryana wrong, she may have been a victim in all of this. That made him uncomfortable, but what could he do now? For now he wore his emotions on his face, "...I'll gather some fire wood"

May 14, 2025 4:08 am

May 14, 2025 4:08 am

Whispers in the Woods

You set up camp and light up a fire. The danger seems to have passed, and you find comfort in the warmth of the campfire.

Except for Will.

When he tries to drink, the water tastes like brine, so salty it burns his throat going down. The food is just as bad. The bread, the dried meat - they all taste like the ashes scraped from the bottom of a long-dead fire. Every bite is a punishment, and he has to will himself to eat to satisfy the pangs of hunger.

And when he looks up, he notices they are no longer alone.

A man sits across from him, just beyond the reach of the fire's warmth. He is tall and broad-shouldered, perhaps in his forties, with a thick beard of black and iron-grey. His eyes are dark and intense, fixed on Will with a knowing, unreadable gaze.

He says nothing. Just watches, as if he's been waiting for Will all along.

OOC:

For the time being, no one else can see the man, other than Will.

May 14, 2025 12:10 pm

May 14, 2025 12:10 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will turns to the man and asks, Who are you, and what’re you doing here?

May 14, 2025 12:21 pm

May 14, 2025 12:21 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The man’s gaze doesn’t waver

"You are Halav. You made a vow, long ago, to return when your people needed you most. A thousand years have passed. The beastmen stir in their old warrens. Their cries will soon echo through the forests again"

The man slowly rises to his feet:

"War is coming. The time has come to fulfill your oath… and lead Mankind once more"

OOC:

Will appears to be talking to thin air...

May 14, 2025 12:57 pm

May 14, 2025 12:57 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will rises up as well.
The Lawgiver has been gone since the dawn of the Dark Age, friend. So, again, I ask, who are you?

Last edited May 14, 2025 1:03 pm

May 14, 2025 1:22 pm

May 14, 2025 1:22 pm

Whispers in the Woods

The man doesn’t flinch at Will’s challenge.

"I already told you who you are" he insists " You are the Lawgiver. The Shield of the People and the Savior of Traladara. You have returned, just as you swore you would, as a man, born again into a world you once died to protect"

The man turns his head lightly, to get Will’s attention to the two handed bronze sword he retrieved from the burial mound:

"You have reclaimed your sword. Your armor will find its way back to you, too. The memories will return. Nothing is gone, only buried beneath time. And now that the beastmen stir again, it is time for you to rise and remember your oath. You are Halav, and the world has need of you once more"

May 14, 2025 1:31 pm

May 14, 2025 1:31 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton observed Will! as he spoke to the air, was this a trick of the hags, he looked around the perimeter of camp and tried to listen for any sort of chanting. He then stood and put a hand on Will!'s shoulder. "Will! what are you seeing, an illusion?"

May 14, 2025 1:52 pm

May 14, 2025 1:52 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will replies again to the man’s twisted identification, almost in jest, I know you are…but what am I?

Will shrugs his shoulders, still uncertain if he’s dealing with an illusion…or, perhaps, something else!

Emerald eyes glance over at the bronze two-handed sword.

I’m not sure yet, Anton. Have you ever had someone try giving you a messiah complex?

May 14, 2025 3:17 pm

May 14, 2025 3:17 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Anton is taken aback by Will!'s question, "Not to my recollection. But so you are aware, I do not see or hear anyone...currently trying to do that to you. What are you hearing?"

May 14, 2025 3:43 pm

May 14, 2025 3:43 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Someone telling me I’m the Lawgiver. I mean, you are. By you, I mean me. I think. Never-mind.
Turning back to his apparition, our fightery fellow adds, Thank you friend, this is very interesting. Where might I find these beast-men?

Last edited May 14, 2025 5:35 pm

May 14, 2025 4:12 pm

May 14, 2025 4:12 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"No offense Will! but what would make them think you are the Lawgiver returned?" Anton was a bit stunned and didn't know what to think, was Will! cracking up and developing a god complex?

May 14, 2025 5:22 pm

May 14, 2025 5:22 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Miyana stirs, awakened by the events. "What's going on?" She asks sleepily.

May 14, 2025 5:26 pm

May 14, 2025 5:26 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Who is the 'Lawgiver'?" Moryana, for all intent and purposes, has been living under a rock. She leans toward Boudica and whispers, trying not to disrupt the discussion between Anton and Will.

May 14, 2025 7:11 pm

May 14, 2025 7:11 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Tell me, unnamed friend, where might these beast-men be stirring? I’ll surely need my armor and shield’s location revealed to me soon, so that I can be properly prepared!

May 14, 2025 9:31 pm

May 14, 2025 9:31 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Overhearing this, Boudica bolts upright. "What?! You are seeing a vision of the Lawgiver, King Halav himself, one of the Three sent by the divines to save Traladara long ago, and to serve as our guides ever since? Will! Tell me! Is it because you wield his sword?". She is very excited by this strange revelation.

Last edited May 14, 2025 9:31 pm

May 14, 2025 9:46 pm

May 14, 2025 9:46 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Wait, what?!"

May 15, 2025 3:51 am

May 15, 2025 3:51 am

Whispers in the Woods

"The beastmen are stirring in the deep forest. You can not face them alone." The warrior steps through the campfire to stand next to Will - another indication (if he needed any) that he was a figment, rather than actually there "Your armor will find its way to you. Lav should be your next destination. There is a powerful relic of old hidden there, which can heal both you and your companion of your ailment."

May 15, 2025 10:11 am

May 15, 2025 10:11 am

Whispers in the Woods

My companion? Which one? I have several of them.

May 15, 2025 10:26 am

May 15, 2025 10:26 am

Whispers in the Woods

The man gives a slight nod of his head at Miyana.

May 15, 2025 2:02 pm

May 15, 2025 2:02 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"We should not get too excited, it's possible this is all a trick, some curse placed by the hags before they died" Anton said trying to keep a rational mind

May 15, 2025 2:35 pm

May 15, 2025 2:35 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Will looks back at his friends, gestures at the spirit, and says, Quiet, please. Can’t you see, I’m trying to have a conversation?

OOC:

lol

Looking back at the spirit, Will adds, I appreciate this information. Or, you do. By you, I mean me. Oh, bother…this is good information.

Is there anything else, dear unnamed spirit, we should know at this time?

Last edited May 15, 2025 2:38 pm

May 15, 2025 2:56 pm

May 15, 2025 2:56 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"You'll remember more when you sleep. When your mind is free" the figment says. Will blinks, and the figure vanishes as suddenly as it appeared. You sense he is not truly gone, however. He is still there, just beyond the edge of your sight.

Stefan (Costache)

May 15, 2025 2:58 pm

May 15, 2025 2:58 pm

Whispers in the Woods

"Uncle Zsa Zsa once said he could hear voices" Stefan whispers "It was during harvest, and he hasn't slept for days" he stopped short of suggesting Will should be sent off to bed, but he was definitely thinking it...

May 15, 2025 3:24 pm

May 15, 2025 3:24 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Huh.
Will turns back to his friends and says, You all may want to sit down.

Our fightery fellow leads his friends over to the campfire light, and spins his grandiose yarn.
A fellow who wouldn’t give me his name, told me I’m King Halav, having just retrieved the two-handed sword from the burial mound. I guess that sword was his. He went on to tell me, the beast-men stir deep in the forest, and with rest and time I’ll find my armor and shield, and then I’ll need to face the beast-men in order to save the day, make the world a better place, all like that.

Will’s tone of half-hearted skepticism suddenly turns a bit dire. He casts emerald-eyed gaze upon Miyana. He also said, I must journey to Lav. There, he suggested I’ll find a powerful relic, capable of healing me… and also to heal you, Miyana.

Then, he disappeared, and that was it. Will exudes pensive pregnant pause, and then adds, He did have a very chic gray beard.

Last edited May 15, 2025 3:25 pm

May 15, 2025 3:34 pm

May 15, 2025 3:34 pm

Whispers in the Woods

Boudica continues her excitement and religious zeal. "And… you think this was real? Not some trick of the hags? Or a bad dream or something? Because, if so… this is … Well, it’s very big. But… uh….Heal you two of what?"

May 15, 2025 3:41 pm

May 15, 2025 3:41 pm

Whispers in the Woods

I don’t know if it was real or not…I think so, I was carrying on a two-way conversation with it, just as sure as you and I are.
Maybe a trick of the hags…but for what purpose? They could’ve made life hard for us in a number of other, more direct ways.
Healed of…well…everything I eat tastes like ashes, and I simply have to force-feed myself, to keep from starving.

Last edited May 15, 2025 10:58 pm

May 16, 2025 2:37 am

May 16, 2025 2:37 am

Whispers in the Woods

"Ridiculous," Miyana says, now more fully awake. "I feel fine."

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