Rennick's Jade Regent: The Prophecy of the Seal (Inactive)

Game Master Rennick

A group of closest friends bands together for one of their own - and may hold the key to salvation in a far off nation's time of need.


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"Well now. It seems diplomacy is our friend. Shall we leave our small friends to their coup d'etat celebrations and head out to find these bone men?"


retired

At Yosrick's words, Andrin's gaze flits around the room, taking in the ghastly decorations as all the color leaves his face. "Yes. Please. By all the gods, let us leave these over zealous and surprisingly strong goblins to their celebratory revels."


Male Human

tapping the map with a pointy finger, Poog explains the map, first hitting two spots near the shoreline, "Big broken boats.... boring." then taps the third location, further into the swamplands, "Cave where the bonesmen live."

With that, the group leaves the surviving goblins to their revelry. The Goblins are building a bonfire, as they dance and sing around the growing flames... using their dead as kindling! Gleefully chucking the corpses of fallen goblins on to the pyre, while the moon rises into the evening sky.

Alrighty, what's your plan?


CN male human summoner [synthesist] 1

Koveluss shakes his head in wonder as he watches the goblins chuck their kin on the fire. "Waste not want not; I guess that's one way to send your loved ones to the great beyond." Turning away from the somewhat disturbing goblin celebration, the man takes a moment to gaze at the moon.

"Poog may have found the boats boring, but their proximity to the cave seems too convenient for there to be no connection between the wrecks and the bonemen. Should we wait till morning or go exploring tonight?"

What phase is the moon in?


Male Human Inquisitor - 2

There goes the bloodthirsty tribe of Poog. Iomedae help them find a path of peace. We don't need anymore uprisings from them, especially with this darkness brewing. Something big is coming...

Daemon sigh's as he seems to relax for the first time today. Turning from the celebration into Koveluss's question, "I think we should head back to town. I wouldn't want any fool hearty bounty hunters breaking our promises and spoiling our hard work. It may be wise to alert the Sheriff of this as well. These bone men affect more than just us. Plus, I'm sure the others would want to know of our findings too."


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

Lirrathan tries to halt the throwing of bodies into the flames, if only for long enough to recover an ear from each one. His mood is somewhat cheerful, as he realizes that although he didn't get to be the ones to fell the filthy buggers himself, it is the easiest time he's ever had collecting a bounty.

Listening to the options, Lirrathan adds his self-important thoughts on the matter, "If we head back to town to report what happened, we would be able to turn in the bounty, and sleep in a real bed instead of a putrid swamp. But hey, that's just me, the way you humans smell maybe you'd prefer to cuddle up with some cattails and a bullfrog."

He turns his attentions back to gathering as many ears as he can before they are burnt to a crisp.


CN male human summoner [synthesist] 1

"Fair enough. As much as I dislike agreed with Goldilocks, I was whisked away on this adventure immediately following several days travel to Sandpoint. A bed would be most welcome." The man nods at the second part of Lirrathan's comment. "A bath would be in order as well; I assure you, elf, that the stink of the road is not my typical aroma."


Yosrick sighs softly. A bed? Nice enough. A drink? Now that was necessary...


Male Human Inquisitor - 2

Poor Yosrick - He looks terrified. Perhaps if I only...

"So, we're all in agreement then? Back to Sandpoint to warn the city guard, recuperate, and prepare for an exploration of these 'Bone Men's base of operations?" His eyes focus on Yosrick as if he's curious for his input. "Perhaps you could even inquire with your Archaeological friends if there is any information on this location? There may be some exciting things here for your field."


retired

"Yes, I believe we are agreed. Though, Mr. Vossare, I humbly request that you save your coppers and accept my offer of hospitality on behalf of the Valdemars. We have guest quarters on the estate that I'm sure you would find most comfortable after a long and harrowing journey."

Andrin hesitates a moment, seemingly unsure exactly how to say what he attempts to say next, "I would also extend the offer to any of the rest of you, though I suspect you'd find your own beds more to your liking. If I am wrong though, the Valdemars would welcome you this night."

Andrin's eyes shine with eagerness. He is obviously greatly looking forward to leaving the fetid swamp and all its biting bugs behind him. As they depart, he vainly attempts to brush some caked mud from one of his sleeves.


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

"What's a Valdemar? Is it some type of organization?" Lirrathan seems confused by the weird way the man offers the assistance and hospitality of others. "Either way, I'll pass, as I got some coin to use to win back some of my previous losses... So, where's my split?" As an afterthought he adds, "Despite the distinct lack of effort in grabbing ears, I'll split what we get from them after I turn them in."


retired

"My good elf, why I am a Valdemar of course. It is my surname, and as such belongs to me and the rest of my family - just as you are an Andosana.


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

Lirrathan seems thoughtful, "So, you got a nice place then? Table full of food, big four post beds, and a fireplace in each room? If you don't mind me stopping by a little later in the evening, I just may take you up on that offer. Koveluss, you a gambler?" He asks hopefully


Yosrick smiles. "Thanks Andrin, but I'm fine. I have some...one waiting for me back home."


CN male human summoner [synthesist] 1

"I gamble from time to time, Lir, but always in moderation. For reasons that remain unknown to me I never find myself the beneficiary of Desna's attention; without the goddess of luck's blessings I am an easy mark." Koveluss' tone is oddly distant as he speaks. The man quickly smothers the uncharacteristic melancholy, replacing it with a shrug and broad smile.

"That said, together we helped restore the Licktoad goblins to relative greatness, and raised the tribe's champion above his fellows to lead. Granted we only had to lift him a few feet, but still, the achievement warrants proportionate celebration. I would be happy to lose some coin to you, elf."


Male Human

If, during the day, the depths of Brinestump Marsh were cloying, now they are downright oppressive. All around you the trees and shrub close in as the muddy dirt sucks itself onto your boots, over the edges, chilling your feet to a dull numbing pain.

The woods are alive with the sounds of animals, squawks and howls that fall silent as a grave, before coming to life once more in a kind of discordant symphony. It's hours before the group would safely be out of the swamp, but maybe it wouldn't come soon enough.

Perception DC 14:
As you come to a point where the trail follows along a winding river path, you hear sounds repeating. The scratching of claws on bark, something rippling the water against the grain... after a moment you realize... you're being followed.


CN male human summoner [synthesist] 1

Perception 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6; Epic Fail!

As the group trudges through the swamp it isn't long before you hear Koveluss begin humming a tune to himself. He starts to pick up and chose the placement of his feet in the muck purposefully, the sound of his boots moving through the mud keeping up with a tune only the auburn-haired human can hear.


retired

Perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 = 17

Cautiously and under his breath Andrin whispers loud enough for his companions to hear, "Gentlemen, I fear we are being followed. In this wretched place, I cannot imagine that it is by anything good."


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

Perception 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 = 17

Lirrathan nods in agreement to Andrin'ssentiment, "'The Valdemar' is correct, there's something trailing us." With that, he draws his longsword, casually near some of the local plants, and and makes to cut some to gather. Clearly, he adds, "Look at that, this is a plant I haven't seen. I will take some. Why don't we stop while I collect it." While feigning to harvest some plant he tries to get a better look.

Bluff 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9
Perception 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 2 = 11


Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 = 11

Yosrick rolls his eyes at the elf's obvious act. He casually unslings his whip and drops it to hand, ready for the inevitable.


CN male human summoner [synthesist] 1

"In a place such as this I'd be worried if we weren't followed." Koveluss shrugs as he draws his sword, but the man pauses when he witnesses Lir's performance. He chuckles to himself in amusement.

"Trying to get our pursuers to give themselves up with laughter, elf?"


retired

Andrin lowers his face into his palm, shaking his head. He briefly considers trying to play along with the elf's rather transparent bluff, but sees Yosrick and Koveluss openly ready their weapons.

"I wonder if the halfling's assailant has followed us... though I suspect it is more likely some wretched animal. Regardless, whatever it is is probably either too cunning or too stupid to fall for your clever ruse, Lirrathan. A good thought though."

He readies his shield and morningstar.


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

He swipes at the plants, giving up his ruse, "You know it wouldn't hurt to play along. I bet I would have gotten away with it, if it wasn't for you dang youngsters. You're worse than a barking dog."

With his ploy defeated by the group as a whole, he decides to go ahead and draw his other blade, and challenge whatever it is outright, "We know you're out there, you better show yourself, or it could be worse for you. If you come out now, the others will talk your ear off until you see it their way just to get them to stop."


Male Human Inquisitor - 2

Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8 Fa1LuRE! >:(

Having not noticed anything prior to Koveluss's Challenge, he too pulls his sword once Lirrathan draws his second blade.

"No need to get discouraged Lirrathan. Koveluss just likes raining on your parade" he grins before turning his attention in the direction Koveluss is facing.

"Come on out. You've been made, so it is silly from this moment on to try and hide yourself." His voice stern and is sure of itself, his eyes wander amongst his companions as he listens for a reply.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20


Male Human

Intentionally or not, Lirrathan's ruse brings about another clue, near the shrub that he kneels by, the young elf finds a strange three clawed footprint. Following the trail with his eyes, Lirrathan - and then the rest of the group, spot a frightening sight,

Hidden in the murky foliage of the swamp, is a weird looking beast! Roughly humanoid in shape, although its legs bend backward like those of a dog, its pallid skin is crisscrossed by a network of visible veins, and its jaws split down the middle into tiny grasping claws.

The creature's eyes meet Lirrathan's and it lets out a high pitched shriek, its mandible like jaw splitting open before it turns and runs back into the deeper darkness of the swamp.

The Monster! (minus the monk)


"What in the Ninth Circle of Abaddon is that thing?!?"

With my history of Thassalonian interest, would I have any clue what that thing was?

Knowledge History: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

Lirrathan jumps back in revulsion, considers giving chase, before stopping long enough to realize he doesn't WANT to catch it. "Eeuugh, what the heck was that? Is that what the gangly little thing that attacked the halfling grows up to be? It looks like just one more reason, on the long list of them, to not live in a swamp." a shiver runs down his spine, before he shakes it off quickly.


retired

Andrin visibly shudders at the sight of the thing as it dashes off back into the swamp. "Gods below, I've never seen such a creature before. I recommend we hasten back to the shelter of the town, before any more of those hideous beasts descend upon us."


Male Human Inquisitor - 2

I don't think it's a beast known in religion, but I'll a religious knowledge check to find out!
Knowledge (Religion): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15
Also, Which direction does the beast run off in? Towards Walthus's shack, towards where we came...?

Shivering at the horrific site, he struggles to force a few words from his mouth. "Why on earth would a beast like that be following us... This can only be bad--." His words stop somewhat abruptly as his eyes dart to the chest they took with them, "We should examine the chest in which Poog and the goblins gave us. That creature may be seeking something out within it."

He pauses for a moment, his face taking a grim shadow, "The last thing we want is to lure them to the city to face the same fate as the Goblins."


CN male human summoner [synthesist] 1

"Not sure what that thing was, but it reminded my of a butcher I used to know in Westcrown. He was married to a Varisian fortune teller, and everyone thought his wife cursed him." Koveluss stows his weapon once more and comes to stand next to the chest. The man continues talking, not particularly caring if anyone is still listening.

"Folks think of a Varisian fortune teller and they imagine some old crone. Few took the time to actually meet the woman. Turns out she was quite a looker; the marriage was arranged, she was a tad dim, and he was simply born as ugly as a sow. If my memory's correct, though, his voice was a bit higher than that creature's"


Male Human

History Result - Yosrick[/spoiler:

You recognize the beast as a Sinspawn, a corrupted creation of magic used by the Runelords of Thassilon. Four years ago - When The Runewardens saved Sandpoint from a Giant invasion, some of the old ruins were re-opened and a small number of the creatures escaped. It has been years since any have been spotted, but you would guess this creature is a cast off from that.

Daemon notes that the beast runs deeper into the swamp itself, instead of towards the Goblin camp or Walthus' shack, it's behavior similar to an animal than a thinking being.

Survival DC 10:
Thinking back to the bodies of the massacred goblins, you remember that their wounds didn't seem to be claws or teeth, but very precise and deft slices. Whatever killed them, wasn't this beast.

The party makes their way back the way that they had come, the shrouding canopy of the swamp turning an early evening into near darkness, the way home was going to be slow going.

Keep in mind, you have the option of Walthus' shack as a safe haven if you don't want to trek back to town. Also, who has lowlight/darkvision? :p


"Waitaminute! That's one of the sinspawn. They oozed out of the ruins beneath Sandpoint a few years back when the Giants attacked. They're Thassalonian; older than snot and evil. I didn't think any were still alive..."


CN male human summoner [synthesist] 1

"Are you sure it was alive? If Poog's to be believed the dead have a habit of prowling these swamps and, for the record, I'm in favor of believing diminutive pyromaniacs that light their kin on fire."


"Relatively sure. I mean, they're supposed to bleed, so I guess they're alive."


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

Survival 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8

Lirrathan cocks his head at Yosrick's choice of grouping, "Snot and evil? Why do I believe that you wasted many of your years learning the history of snot? So, if they were thought to be dead, is it just a straggler, and does it really pose a threat by itself?" He thinks for a bit, asking for confirmation "They don't happen to self-reproduce at the rate of mated rabbits do they?"


Male Human Inquisitor - 2

Survival: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 = 11

"It may be wise for us to head to Walthus's shack instead of the city. Creatures like that roaming the woods as well as other potential threats, given our situation..." He hoists his shield back up on his arm, "And I honestly hope they don't reproduce like rabits."

Not to mention, I can't see a damned thing out here...


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

Lirrathan tries to sway the decision, primarily for his own means, "If they came from beneath Sandpoint, I would think they already know where it's at. Besides, I thought you talkers were all eager to make the authorities aware of the deal you all struck with the filthy green rats?"

Sorry, forgot to answer, Lirrathan has Low-light.


retired

"Walthus has lived out in the swamps for quite some time, he is no stranger to the dangers of doing so. I would rather we hasten back to town and prepare ourselves for a foray to the coast and an assault upon these bonemen." He looks forlornly at all the mud, dirt, and other swamp filth that is caked all over his clothes and hands. "But if we insist on imposing on Master Proudstump, I will reluctantly oblige."

Normal-vision! But I also have a bullseye lantern, which I will light when it gets dark out.


CN male human summoner [synthesist] 1

"Proustump seemed likable enough. I wouldn't mind asking him about the things that go bump in these swamps. He might even be able to tell us something about Poog's bonemen." Koveluss flashes a mischievous grin in Daemon's direction. "Someone might first have to ask dear Walthus nicely, though."

I benefit from darkvision when fused, but have normal human senses otherwise. That said, I have light prepared.


Male Human Inquisitor - 2

Smirks with a wide grin on his face, "Very true. We should have a certain gold haired individual ask for housing."

He keeps his shield upon his forearm as they head towards the old Halfling's shack. He pulls his own Bulls-eye lantern from a hook on his backpack and lights it, assisting Andrin in lighting the path.


Male Human

The debate continues for a few minutes longer until - to Lirrathan's dismay - the decision impose of Walthus' hospitality is decided.

The walk through the swamp is just as bad as before, worse in fact in the dark. The moisture of the air clings to each of you, stringing hair and sucking clothing to skin while the inescapable waters of the ground find ways to seep into any nook, cranny or crack of the party's boots. The light cast from the two lanterns dances across the swampy forest, making shadows of trees, bushes and gods know what else dance menacingly in the small firelight.

Unnerving as it is though, the journey is uneventful. And as the light of the moon can just barely be seen in the cracks of the swamp's canopy, they break the clearing to Walthus' hut, seeing an inviting orange-yellow glow in the home's windows.

After a moment to peer through the door's peephole, Walthus throws the door to his home open wide and beckons the group in with a large and inviting smile. Almost as inviting as his home itself feels.

Gone is the ransacked mess that the party left behind earlier in the daylight. Walthus has cleaned and tidied up with a marked eye and what stands now is a cozy and comfy - if not a little rustic - home. The table and chairs have been set and re-arranged, the pots, pans and dishes all cleaned and put away. And best of all there's a roaring fire stoked up in the hearth with a large black cauldron boiling with a hearty smelling stew,

One of Walthus' prized snakes - this one a dark green with black stripes - curls up happily near the fire.

"Come on in, come on in!" Walthus greets them with a smile.


Male Human Inquisitor - 2

Gladly accepting Wathus's invitation into his home, he maneuvers to a place near the fire and sitting upon the floor. He removes his armor jacket near it to let it dry from the damp evening. "Thank you for your hospitality Walthus. It is much appreciated."

He would also remove his boots, putting them next to the heat source to allow them to dry as well.


Yosrick smiles at the halfling. "Looks like you've recovered well, Mr Proudstump. We're sorry to impose on you, but it seems like we're not quite done in the swamp yet. Also, have you seen a strange pale creature with long arms and what seems to be little arms on his mouth, by chance?"


retired

"Thank you kindly for your hospitality, Master Proudstump. I wonder if I might trouble you for a rain barrel or bucket of some sort? A container that might hold water at least, so that I might clean as much of the swamp from our clothes as will be loosened from our garments?"

Despite the formality in his words and his good posture, Andrin looks absolutely miserable. His clothes are crusted with dirt and sweat and a surprisingly thick layer of mud obscures his complexion from all but the most dedicated observer. Despite it though, he tries to maintain some semblance of dignity, which unfortunately, only robs him of it all the more.

Andrin will offer to wash any clothes if Walthus has a suitable container. He'll use his create water and mending orisons throughout the processes, emptying the container and refilling as needed.

EDIT: And yes, he both purchased and brought soap!


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

Lirrathan tries to look nonchalant, and casual, as he enters the place. He nods and purses his lips as he takes it all in, before he looks at Walthus and asks "No hard feelings? I didn't know if you were safe or not, I was just being cautious. You understand, right?" he says this last more as a statement than a question.


"By the gods, elf! That was almost an apology!" Yosrick grins at the elf, and shakes his head. "If tomorrow the sun does not rise, we shall know why!"


CN male human summoner [synthesist] 1

"Goldilocks' just isn't himself tonight. Not enough ears to sate his bloodthirst, and now he's not even going to be able to deprive the fishermen and lumberjacks of Sandpoint out of their day's earnings." Koveluss smiles at Walthus in greeting as he shoulders past Lir and claims a seat near the fire, the man's attentions turning to the halfling's snake.

"You have a beautiful pet here, Proudstump. Is the species local to these swamps?"


Male Human Inquisitor - 2

Daemon smirks at Yosrick and Koveluss's jokes towards the elf. "Yeah - I think we'll make a jester of him yet." His eyes trail down back towards the fire place where Koveluss is looking, examining the snake for himself and showing obvious curiosity, if not for curiosities sake, then for politeness of their host.


Male Elf Ranger 4 (AC: 17 [T 13 /FF 14]; HP: 19/35; F+5, R+7, W+1/+3 vs Enchantments; Init: +3 [+5 in Urban]; Perc: +11 [+13 in Urban])

Lirrathan feigns laughing along with the others as they have their little jest "Let's not get ahead of ourselves, I have nothing to apologize for and did no wrong. I was merely giving an explanation for my actions." He smirks before he continues, "As for being a jester, why wouldn't I be? I already travel with four really big jokes."


"And the elf strikes back! Touche!" Yosrick smiles at Lirrathan and then turns to the halfing. "So, Mr Proudstump, I don't suppose you have anything to drink here? Maybe something hard?"

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