Kappi Matarito |
Reflex Save 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24
Running high on the adventure of the moment, (strange ravens, solving riddles, silver chalices, beams of moonlight...), Kappi is delighted as the stepping stones rise from the water. He eagerly steps out on to them only to give a slight shriek as they began to sink. Without thought the lad quickly springs across barely touching the other stones and he skims across to the far shore.
The fact that he can't get back hasn't occurred to him yet...
Holding his sh sword in one hand, he raised his other in a fist pump of triumph and his friends across the water thinks they hear him whisper something to himself like Yeah! Totally ninja!
Kappi begins to explore the alcove. If its too dark, he will pull a sunrod from his pack and ignite it for better illumination.
Perception 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (10) + 13 = 23
GM thunderspirit |
Kappi's friends watch him bound across and vanish into the globe of shadow. They hear the stage whisper, but can't see his victorious fist pump.
The sunrod Kappi cracks is no help inside the magical darkness. His groping hand finds the hourglass resting on its perch.
Davosh the Wanderer |
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Davosh's Big Eye begins to swirl. "I suppose my boy that I could have simply done this, but I didn't want to rob you of your fun." The then uses his fly hex to retrieve the lad, using the magical phrase marcopolo to locate him.
GM thunderspirit |
As Edward drinks again, the moonlight flashes and the stones reemerge!
1d4 ⇒ 4
They stick around this time long enough for Kappi to make it back before submerging again!
Davosh the Wanderer |
"Thank you. Kappi, well done my boy. Now, let us return to the albus corvus!"
Kappi Matarito |
"Thank you. Kappi, well done my boy. Now, let us return to the albus corvus!"
Kappi is somewhat use to Davosh saying things that dont make sense. He skips back across the stone but he doesnt know anything about the elvis corpus? he whispers in confusement.
GM thunderspirit |
Returning to Elvis Corpus, even thought the raven said his name was Rozum, Kappi triumphantly hands the hourglass to the bird, who delivers to Kappi his iron amulet, similar to those received before.
You have passed the Challenge of Reason, caws Rozum. You have taken upon yourselves a great burden, for that which you desire, the changeling holds.
Maiden. Mother. Also Crone — forever chained.
You will find the Crone only when the full moon wanes.
Rozam clutches the hourglass in his talons and soars off into the room with the chalices, vanishing into the darkness.
Ali'yanah D'ohr'hein |
Ali wrinkles her nose at the amulets.
Each one is magical, but they seem to have some sort of resonance...bring them close together, won't you?
Spellcraft to Identify: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (13) + 16 = 29
GM thunderspirit |
The "dragon" amulet functions as a brooch of shielding.
The amulet just received (which Davosh will label as "gold") functions as an aegis of recovery.
Also, I had not realized Ali's Spellcraft was +16 to identify. :-o
She can Take 10 on practically any item and be able to determine its properties.
Vojtek Wartooth |
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“The ages of recovery, are they from ages long passed? Perhaps Davosh could inquire of the ancestors for insight? I suspect there were ancestors throughout all the ages...”
Vojtek’s knowledge of magical items being severely lacking, he assumed his input was valuable.
Davosh the Wanderer |
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"no silly. AGIS.... like of Asticles"
Will process XP and treasure tomorrow.
GM thunderspirit |
As the party makes its way bac into the neverending hallway, they soon discover a set of double doors across from the set from which they originally emerged. Kappi is absolutely positive that the doors were not there before.
Davosh the Wanderer |
"I think Edward or Vojtek ought to wear the aegis. I think Davosh (that's me) ought to wear the broach. The chime ought to go to whoever opens doors... Kappi?"
Davosh walks up to the new doors as if they've always been there. If he's surprised, he doesn't show it. "Now, I believe we must go through these."
Kappi Matarito |
Actually, Davosh, someone who CAN'T open locked doors should carry the Chime. Why put all our eggs into one basket??
Kappi agrees to this. Maybe only after he fails, then someone else can try the Chime.
Kappi Matarito |
As the party makes its way bac into the neverending hallway, they soon discover a set of double doors across from the set from which they originally emerged. Kappi is absolutely positive that the doors were not there before.
The rogue is totally amazed that the set of double doors appeared, where there was nothing before. At first Kappi thought it must be illusionary doors, then eventually he was sure.
First the lad listens at the door
Perception 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (3) + 13 = 16
Then he starts humming happily to himself as checks the door for traps
perception 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (17) + 17 = 34
GM thunderspirit |
The double doors lead to a shallow foyer blocked by two more double doors, which are carved to resemble an oversized gate guarded by a scrawny dog. Kappi's search reveals no evidence of a trap, and he believes the door to be unlocked.
GM thunderspirit |
As Kappi opens the door, several iron bells ring out, not unlike entering the card reader wagon in his youth. The rogue curses quietly to himself as the door opens the rest of the way.
This spacious room resembles the interior of a wooden cottage. Stairs to the right of the entrance climb to balcony atop which rests a wooden table. A wooden walkway continues around the room to a small landing and another set of stairs to the left of the entrance. A third staircase leads down from the walkway to an alcove opposite the door. Crates, boxes, barrels and other mundane materials crowd the space. The ceiling is 20 feet high, while the balcony and walkway are each 10 feet above the floor. Several dining items can be seen on the table, while the landing to the left of the entrance has a wooden ladder climbing to a trap door in the ceiling. Windows in the alcove look out into a snowy forest clearing.
On the highest landing is an armored man with a startled look on his face as he turns Kappi's direction from a single door behind him. His eyes wide, he hesitantly speaks in an unknown tongue:
After a brief moment, he sees the lack of comprehension on your faces and speaks a gain, a little louder this time, in Draconic. Those who know Draconic can read the above spoiler.
Kappi Matarito |
As Kappi enters the room he immediately moves to the right. As number two man through the door Vojtek mirrors the rogue and moves left.
The lad is clearly confused by the strange warrior speaking a strange tongue. Kappi keeps his blade in hand but does holds his point low. He awkwardly calls out Umm... Davosh? Can you talk to this guy?
Ali'yanah D'ohr'hein |
Ali raises her hands, palms out, to the man. She says low to her companions He's a guardian. Protects the Hut from the outside. Never seen anyone come from the inside before.
to the man, she says out, in Draconic (then translates to the others)
Yes...this is strange to us as well. we are also bound to Baba Yaga, in our own way...but we mean you no harm.
Davosh the Wanderer |
"Aye Kappi, as can Ali, obviously."
"Indeed, Ratibor, much of everything lately is new and unforeseen."
Ali'yanah D'ohr'hein |
Ali speaks, in Elven...I don't know how much we can trust this guard. He's bound here, not necessarily of his own free will. Should we just spill our story, or what?
Davosh the Wanderer |
Answering Ali by speaking in Draconic directly to the guard, "We have a long past, and hopefully a long future. We have come here looking to right an evil. Before we go into detail, what of your heart? Is it full of good, or is it rotted with evil?"
GM thunderspirit |
Leave it to Davosh to broach difficult subjects with dignity and grace. LOL
This will take a Diplomacy check. Ali and Davosh can attempt to aid, or take the lead if they're feeling especially lucky.
Davosh the Wanderer |
The witch then remembers he's not the diplomat that the great Castamir or Ka'atib is.... so he quickly turns red and looks at Edward (and remembers that Edward can just know the answer.)
Diplomacy Aid Another: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (12) - 1 = 11
Ali'yanah D'ohr'hein |
Ali counts on her already-given contributions, and also offers to translate for Edward.
Diplomacy, aid: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5
something is probably lost in the translation.
Edward W.Fell |
Edward seeing the hut expand sheathes his sword, and switches to his bow. He hides his surprise after missing the guardian above them.
Regaining his composure Ed takes a moment while the others are talking, and senses this guardians true heart.
With a smile to Davosh, and a questioning glace at Ali as her translation switches in and out of her native elven tongue.
Edward speaks to the guardian displays his own proficiency of the draconic tongue. His God is a dragon. Ratibor, I am Edward Fell. We may be friends, but I need to know who set you upon your task of guarding the hut?
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 15 + 2 = 28
He also tries to recall of any mention as to who Ratibor might be.
Know-Planes, Nobility, or History: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7
note to DM, Ed's sense motive is a +10
GM thunderspirit |
Ratibor does not detect as evil to Edward, but he is not familiar with the name or the face. (Also, his speech in Draconic indicated he was bound here by Baba Yaga.)
FYI: Ratibor speaks only Draconic and Iobarian, so there'll have to be some translation going back and forth unless someone has applicable magic.
Edward's tone and words eventually get the man to relax, and after a bit of explaining about your mission, he seems to understand a bit more about why you have come from inside the hut.
Davosh the Wanderer |
"You seem a decent fellow, I hate to die. Now, I hope beyond hope that if we return, it is not as intruders. Since we are safely inside, I am wondering if there are other rooms we've missed that you can point out." Davosh then explains each place the party has seen.
If there are none, he gives a bow and motions for the others to step outside.
Edward W.Fell |
In common to the party. Lets not hasten this to much, Ratibor might have some information useful to us.
Turns to Ratibor in draconic. Ratibor, how long have you been in Baba Yaga's service? Could I get you to break some bread with us, have a swallow of some ale, or just a friendly little chat?
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (7) + 15 = 22 and anyone else who wants to assist.
If everything goes well. What can you tell us about yourself, the hut, or where we are?
Vojtek Wartooth |
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Vojtek rumbles to himself at varying volumes, apparently oblivious to all around him - such is his reaction to hearing Draconic spoken. His ability to understand it is nonexistent, but his nose twitches slightly, and he seems to recognize all utterances of Dragon languages (Good or evil) on a primal level. The rumbling from deep within his chest waxes and wanes from the subtle to the slightly obnoxious and back. The relatively benign look he wears seem incongruous and draws a bit of unwanted attention throughout the exchange.
GM thunderspirit |
Ratibor takes Edward's opening and pontificates at length about the hero that once was Ratibor the Bold, who once commanded a vast army in Iobaria (Iobaria is located east of the nation of Brevoy, north of the Castrovin Sea, and is considered part of the continent of Casmaron) and ruled a realm that was a leading contender for the throne of New Iobaria, but he was betrayed by the scheming Baba Yaga and imprisoned here.
Ratibor confirms that the Hut's layout changes each time it travels, but that his room does not change. The Hut, he says, now stands in Hoofwood (eastern Iobaria), in the Dvezda Marches. Artrosa lies east of there.
Davosh the Wanderer |
Sense Motive: 1d20 ⇒ 3 "Then I thank you for your tale."
Davosh awaits Vojtek to step outside first.
Kappi Matarito |
Vojtek rumbles to himself at varying volumes, apparently oblivious to all around him - such is his reaction to hearing Draconic spoken. His ability to understand it is nonexistent, but his nose twitches slightly, and he seems to recognize all utterances of Dragon languages (Good or evil) on a primal level. The rumbling from deep within his chest waxes and wanes from the subtle to the slightly obnoxious and back. The relatively benign look he wears seem incongruous and draws a bit of unwanted attention throughout the exchange.
Kappi not being able to follow the conversation is quickly bored by it. He hones in on Vojtek's reaction.
Not exactly sure what to do he pulls out a few pieces of savory sausage he had in his pocket for a snack. He slices them up and begins handing them to the barbarian one by one.Not unlike the way a person may hand out treats to a small child or maybe a dog to distract them.
Vojtek Wartooth |
Vojtek eats one bit of meat, then in an inspired moment considers his elder may not have eaten in a long while.
In a creditable sounding but nonsensical imitation of draconian, Vojtek croaks, "Draco fireicus krac donticratious maltoc pork sausage?" and steps forward with a tasty morsel in hand. As he offers the bit of meat, Vojtek assumes an oddly submissive posture.
Charm Person: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (13) - 2 = 11
GM thunderspirit |
Charm Person, LOL
Vojtek's language is unknown to Ratibor, but the proffering of meat is a welcome gesture, and the axe-wielder warms to both the Northman and the Varisian.
Edward W.Fell |
Sense motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25
Ed relays the contents of the spoiler to the party in a language not iobarian, or draconic. If we can get him to leave, we can enter and exit without having to fight him.
Excellent Ratibor, you say we are in Iobaria your former home. I bet you would love to join us, and be our guide instead of guarding this hut. Do you know of any way to remove the bonds that keep you guarding this magnificent hut? Cmon, we’re friends here you can open up some. Tell us why Baba Yaga bound you to servitude.
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (15) + 15 = 30
GM thunderspirit |
Ratibor's face darkens as he recounts the tale of a young Iobarian hero named Ratibor the Bold, Unifier of Coreth and Storith, Freer of Findar, Lord of All, who saw his battalions felled by no army but by plague. He sought help from the Queen of Witches, who set him on a quest to get her the head of Utgaart, the frost giant jarl-priest. He brought her his head on a platter, but she destroyed his armies and imprisoned him here, enslaving him to her servitude.
Davosh the Wanderer |
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (8) + 0 = 8
Davosh contemplates the nature of a bellybutton knot, and wonders if such a knot can be untied.
Ali'yanah D'ohr'hein |
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (15) + 0 = 15
Babba Yaga welched on her deal with you??
Is Ali well-versed enough in relevant lore to know whether this is in, or out of, character?
GM thunderspirit |
She did! Ratibor bellows. Does this surprise you? It should not. The Queen of Witches can never be trusted!
If you want my secrets, my magic, you must do something for me. I have much work to do, and you will do it for me, said Baba Yaga. You must sweep my floors and cook my supper, but first you must go to the hearth. The cat knocked over my freshly ground pepper and it scattered among the ashes. You must pick the grains from the ash in the hearth. With a toothless smile, Baba Yaga continued. Once that is done and my supper is prepared, draw me a bath, and I'll think on your wants. If you do well, I will give you what you ask. If you are lazy and clumsy — like that pathetic dog in the corner—I will cook you and eat you.