The 5th Mendevian Crusade (Inactive)

Game Master Brian Minhinnick

This is your last chance to buy gear before you head out. Don't forget food and water. Also feel free to finish up any roleplaying, but whenever you're ready…

08/18/4712 07:00 Day 2

The morning finds you packing your gear and preparing for your expedition. Once everyone has gathered, you head out of the keep past the great statues of St. Clydwell. Yours is not the only group making its way down the dusty road to the river docks this morning, you see at least two or three other groups of crusaders headed there as well. The trip is short, less than half a mile. Barely any time to appreciate the lovely summer morning. As you approach the docks themselves there is a stone, fort-like building and extending from it a small dock with three large flat bottomed river-ferries moored there. The ten foot wide double doors to the building stand open, and there is a cleric sitting at a desk just outside them. He is a human man with no hair, the cuffs of his white robes are stained with ink. Before him on the table is a stack of papers along with a silver quill and jar of ink, next to them is a stick of white wax and a seal.

"Hello! Right this way please. We'll get your charter signed, and you'll be off." he calls out, motioning you closer. "Quick as you like." He seems harried, possibly a bit overworked and underpaid. Once you are close he asks, "Right then, who's your spokesperson?"

Nathaniel glances among his companions. "I have some skill in the art of speechcraft" he says to them. "Perhaps I might best serve as our face to the world?" He steps forward.
Diplomacy:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11
"I am the spokesperson, sir" he states, bowing to the man. "Forgive me, but after the ceremony I was approached by a priest, who told me that as a gesture of good faith, the priests of Iomedae would be paying to outfit us with steeds for our journey. Could you possibly find the time to set us up with our mounts?"
Bluff:1d20 + 23 ⇒ (20) + 23 = 43

"Charter? Can we not just go and slay demons? Why do those not of the people prefer to waste time with paperwork when there is work to be done?" Barak growls.

"If you want to do the talking to these craven people that hide behind walls, I'm fine with that."

Looking over, and up, at Rosa, he turns back to Nathaniel, ignoring the tiny bald man. "You might want to ask if he has any big horses."

Peering up at Nathaniel through his bushy white eyebrows, over the tops of his spectacles the man says, "Sorry to disappoint you, but that priest was wrong. I couldn't give you any horses if I wanted to, don't have any. Now, will you be requiring a magical contract or will the normal charter suffice?"

"Apologies, could you please explain the difference, kind sir?"

"Sure thing sonny. Magical contracts for those who want to make sure certain rules are followed within the group. The normal charter's a piece of paper saying you're under the queen's authority to go conquer lands in the Worldwound." he replies. "Of course the magical contract has to be signed willingly by all parties."

A look of dawning comprehension spreads across Nathaniel's face. "Certain rules, eh? So, we would devise these rules? How would the contract enforce them?"

Damn ninjas typing faster than I do.

"Depending on the the specific field of speechcraft as you called it, I am skilled in it, and not bad in other area's either. But by all means go forth, I am sure later we can learn how to best use our skills in tandem. " He notes to Nathaniel as they are approaching the man.

Viorel is little surprised by Nathaniel's comment not having heard of the matter, but the half-elf's act was so convincing even he had no idea Nathaniel was just hustling, even if it was unsuccessful.

He then turns to Barek. "I would assume it has stuff to do with the lordship so some paperwork is needed." After hearing the talk about contract he turns his attention to the man.

The other group of crusaders led by Jin Takahashi stands a few yards away. Kenan can be heard saying, "This is would be a nice opportunity to strengthen the pact with our allied group. I think, we should write down the agreements, which we had discussed. I think the following would be acceptable:

We, the signatories of this document pledge hereby the following:
- To share all that is found at our adventures to split equally between all members of the party. If two members want the same thing, they should bid for it and the price should be charged on the winners share.
- To support the party at their prowess
- Not to cheat members of the party.

In addition, we hereby pledge in unity with the signatories of the attached document:
- Not to actively hinder the other party
- To cooperate between hopefully be claimed territories in form of
- A non-aggression pact
- Aid in defense
- promotion of trade routes

Has someone of you any suggestions for improvement or supplementation?"

Cinderfang glances at the proposed contract. "I like that. Simple, but fair."

Kenan reposted it in the original keep gameplay thread. Let's handle group to group interaction there to avoid me acting as a manual go between. If you guys wanna respond to him you can do it there.

Still waiting for an answer to my questions. Apologies, just wanted to make sure hadn't been forgotten after those posts.

Cinderfang purchases 2 extra waterskins just to be prepared, and is ready to go.

To his companions:"Do we head out afoot, or shall I fetch my horse? Also, might there be some interest in pooling resources to purchase a wand of CLW or two?"

@Cinderfang: Don't forget 0th level

"I would need to purchase a horse, and I am not sure if there are any available mounts that could carry Rosa. Regardless it would be good if we could travel faster than on foot, and in the case of finding valuables you can not have too many back to carry them. I am not sure what is the amount of resources we have combined, so perhaps we should start there? I have a tad under 600 gold pieces of worth coin on me. But as to your question I think it would be wise for us to invest in one, perhaps even some potions as emergency if those able to use them should be incapacitated."

To his companions:"Do we head out afoot, or shall I fetch my horse? Also, might there be some interest in pooling resources to purchase a wand of CLW or two?"

@Cinderfang: Don't forget 0th level

I carry a CLW wand, and keep a Cure Moderate memorized for emergencies. Not a dedicated healer, but supporting. I only have a few gold to my name right now. Happy to burn my wand for the group as long as we replace it.

Also- thanks, I'll add those!

Cinderfang meets the companions with his young Tyrannosaurus pet in tow. (he's only medium size for now) "Good morning. This is Sun-Eater. I promise, if you bring a horse, he will not touch it, however, they may be quite frightened of him." shrugging, with a smile "Nothing I can do about that, I'm sorry. He is quite cunning and will listen to your commands. I myself will get by fine on my own. I am what my people call a skin-walker, and can shapeshift into animals large and small. In fact, I can fly above our group and scout from high above. I will try to hunt as we travel, so we can save on supplies.

Rosa nods at Barak as they meet out side

"I see to more good fighters in this group, Barak is knownto me he is a fellow demon hunter, and a skilled one by all acounts shall we be off"

Nathaniel, see shared thread for answer yo your questions. You would write the contract in any case, so the rules are up to you.

Nathaniel nods towards Viorel. "Agreed. I am afraid that I am not at all experienced in the science of planning and accounting for the varied needs of a trip. All I can say is that I have a thousand gold and can carry two hundred pounds of equipment without serious bother. Could I entreat you to suggest to me a short list of what I should purchase?"

Rosa looks around at the group they are a good blend, Rosa starts to talk and all the kindness and worth is gone from her voice. Its hard, cold and full of professionalism.

"Right I have fought is more battles than I can remember, most of them fighting demons and in most I was killed, That was for The hells, this is the prime so not all I know if of use. I did how learn a thing or two, and with Demons they will infect and hide, No talking to begiling will help, they know only to crush and kill. Do you know the spell Glitter dust, the Gnomes like it, well that spell can save you life fighting a Demon, it can light it up when no other will, dust of appearance, then Cold Iron, if you have it good, if not get it, even cold Iron arrows help. Mages have a spell, acid Splash, end your magics low that is a good backup. A thing called Anti Toxin if you can get that good, it to will help. With Demons you hit them hard and fast stop them from calling others."

She holds up her hand on it a ring.

"This is a Ring of Sustenance, if you do not have one get one as soon as you can, saves the need to carry foor and mains you only need 2 hours sleep a night, If you do not have one do not worry I have a spell that lets you rest but 2 hours a night, it would be best we use it, for being jumped in the dark is bad. If you can see in darkness good, if not, No lights at night, not in the open."

Rosa then gos in her bag and takes out Signal Whistles handing one to each of the group.

"One long Whistle means danger, three short one means all clear. Got that, we may be out of sight of each other but we can still know whats happoning, I should not have to say this but we will be facing other damgers than demons be mind full of them as well."

She takes out a map case and compus.

"We will have to make maps has we go, I have some skill but of any of you are batter I am happy to lend you this for the trip."

She points to the Garud dog she brught with her,

"I got that today, hes called 'Dog', and he has skills that will keep us safe, hes hears and smells more than us, who ever is on point you take Dog with you."

She holds up her bag

"As for what you can carry, if you have things you can not, I will for a time. But get some kind of magic bag its of great on tips like this. Things that heal if you have them good, I can heal if needs be. If I ever say 'run from me' do so, or you will come to harm. "

She looks at the one with monts

"As for riding feel free but no mount will have me so I will walk or run"

She picks up her large sword and points it at Bareks large Sword.

"Last of all, I, Barek and Torin will front any attack, if what they say about Barek is true then hes a better killer of Demons than me, I feel no shame in having a better by myside, only pride to be in such company. You keep up with us and in battle you do as we say, your very life may depend on it. now any questions?."

She looks around to see if any one has any thing to say.

"No mounts it is, for now at least. As for supplies, don't forget food, that's an important one."

Nevermind about wands, I remembered that I bought one too, and I think we will have healing covered between two clerics and a druid.

@Jelani: What is the climate like here? Hot/cold enough to make endure elements worthwhile?

The climate in the Worldwound is constantly changing. More so the closer you get to the chaotic influence of the actual Wound. It can be very hot and it can be freezing cold. You'll just have to see.

Rosa lumps down her bag and taks out the cheese and Bread she has in it.

"Your right, Torin, I have a days food but would be 5 days for others, if they need it its the groups. If we need more we should get it now. "

She puts the Bag away and stands, but keeps a lump of meet and hold it up to the large red eyed dog she has come down with, A Iron spiked coller and Chain link it to Rosa.

"Dogs not I nice name I think Im going to call you 'Puppy' in stead. The Human who had him at the Keep said not one would take him, really can they call themselfs caring. Come here sweety whos a good boy.

The dog wages it tail and seen overjoyed by Roses ation, she feeds it the junk of meat. She stands once more. To the sound of crunching she says

"Now I need to ask you all, what do we have in the way or arms, and ranged arms? I have my sword and spells"

Nathaniel tilts his head up and nods. "I have sword and spell as well. Though my magic works best when used in aid of my companions, rather than finishing my enemies."

Cinderfang speaks slowly, as if he's never really had to describe how he fought, and found the whole thing difficultly meta, "Most of my spirit magic enhances or protects me, but I have several that affect the battlefield, or hinder my enemies. I spend combat at my opponents throats, working in concert with Sun-Eater here. I have some options if I cannot close with my enemies, but they are much less effective. However, it is rare that I cannot find some way to reach my enemies. I will usually attack as either a large Cinderfang, my namesake"(referencing his armor and helmet) "or as a giant Cinderlands Condor," (referencing his black/red feathered cloak}) "but I can use other shapes as circumstance calls. However, frequent changes exhaust me, so it is better if I stay in one shape for hours at a time."

He takes the the whistle and gives Rosa a nod.

"My experience is as part of a military unit so it's somewhat different from this. I carry food enough for eigth days I suggest getting wandermeal, it tastes horrible and you get sick if you eat it for a week or so, but it doesn't spoil easy so just get something else also and you are good. I have items necessary to make maps so I can take responsibility for the task, although I might ask assistance in areas where I am familiar like plants so I can mark what kind of forest and so on. It is good also to carry some sort of powder on you in case of invisible enemies, but that is not one of the major concerns. Who ever shall be taking point, I have a compass they can use."

He takes a small pause to ponder. "Well like you can see I carry a morningstar and a crossbow, neither are magical or made of special materials. These are in the case my magical abilities are spent or suppressed. I also carry a dagger but that is more as a tool. I know how to use them better than your average militia or guard but that is about it. Arcane magic is my expertise, a sorcerer not a wizard if you know the difference. I shall not bore you with all spells I have mastered, just those that should affect you. I can place a ward around a place that will either notify me mentally or all audibly if someone not knowing the password crosses it. I can make someone grow twice their size, there is a limitation that it will only work on those with bodies similar to the common races. I can also make armor made out of force, something Puppy and Sun-eater might benefit from. My expertise however is burning enemies to ashes. Speaking of that my heritage allows me limited tolerance for fire."

After a moment he gets an idea and flicks his wrist and a rod flashes forth from his sleeve in to his left hand. "Almost forgot, this is a metamagic rod, that will double the duration of spells, or lesser spells to be exact, it works 3 times a day, if our other spell casters have use for it I am willing to share. I would also suggest people getting these springloaded writst sheats if you have anything that might benefit from them." He starts working with the mechanism to place the rod back in to it's place.

Sorry for the wall of text, just so many things to respond to.

Barek takes the offered signal whistle.

"My tribe has been fighting the demons since the Wound appeared and they were forced from their land. My tribe are not like me. They are what you might refer to as Kellid. I was tainted by the wound at birth, but that only gave me more desire to slay the demons. I took this," he says indicating the large sword strapped to his back, "from one of them and had it enhanced by the shamans of my tribe to help in the fight against demonkind."

Did you guys want a contract for your group?

Did you guys want a contract for your group?

I'm fine with the basic contract posts earlier. I personally have no interest in an overly detailed contract.

@Viorel- I can't imagine the dog will be of any combat use at this level, but both Sun-Eater and I would benefit greatly from Mage armor, since my armor goes away in wild shape. That is, if you can spare the castings. I certainly won't expect it.

Cinderfang kneels down to befriend the dog. "Hmm, good beast. Welcome." he says while petting him roughly and playfully.

Wild Empathy 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17

Viorel would want a contract.

@Cinderfang: I know the dog is pretty useless in combat, but Viorel does not, until he is told or sees. Well I got 19(8/7/4) spells per day total and since defenses in the front will save me spell slots in defensive spells I probably can spare them, though the duration is "only" 6 hours unless I use the metamagic rod, so depends if people have prepared spells more suited for it. So likely will cast them after we enter an area where we expect trouble, after some levels it should become pretty much daily buff.

"We should also discuss formation. I would propose cross formation as the advancing formation. It works as followed counting Puppy and Sun-Eater, there are eight bodies. First six will form a line, and the two remaining go on the both sides of the third one on the line counting from front. We should also keep some distance from the closest person or we are vulnerable to certain spells that could wound us all at the same time. Puppy should be as Rosa suggested with the one that takes point so first or second in the center line. Preferably the flanking persons are those with melee skills and fast feet. Rear guard someone who can hold alone for a moment and with keen eyes. Softest targets suchs as myself should be between the one flanked and rear guard. These are off coarse just ideal circumstances. But I think it does give a base to work with."

Cinderfang thinks for a moment, "I would do well as either rear guard or flank. We should keep Sun-Eater close to me so I can give him commands. I have very keen senses, as does he."

My perception is just under Torin's (dude your score is awesome!), and while Sun-Eater's is only a +7, he has scent. Combat wise, consider me a melee striker. I'll rarely pop off more than one non-buff spell per fight.

I agree with Viorel small group tatics it is, this is mosty open ground, Viorel place us where you think best, you seem to know magics well its that we needto keep safe, as for puppy, hes more for spotting and tracking, do not wast spells on him he,ll be kept out of most fights. I sugest we sign our contract get the last of out needs and head out, let Viorel know wnen your ready,"

Cinderfang will sign whatever as long as it's not obviously screwy.

Do we have a scout at all? I thought we had a rogue at one point. Formation only really matters for surprise rounds or in dungeons.

Anyways, for the sake of brevity, Torin is a polearm melee character, so he has reach, which is always nice. He has a ring of sustenance, so he doesn't need food or water and only needs 2hrs of sleep a night, everyone should think about getting one at some point. Three of us have create water, so we should be fine for that.

@Cinderfang: Class skill + high WIS = awesome perception. Also I noticed that you bought an amulet of mighty fists, which is pretty much a giant ripoff. In my opinion, you should be fine with just magic fang. Also I dint know if you knew, but RAW, druids can wear dragonhide breastplates and full plate(with the feat), if you wanted a higher AC and for the low, low price of 9700gp you could have a dragon hide breastplate of the wild, which would give a sexy +6AC when you wildshape.

[ooc]@Torin - My Dire Tiger form has multiple attacks, so the Mighty Fists covers each. I do have a wand of Magic Fang, but it only affects 1 weapon. I'd rather not use castings of Magic Fang Greater. Thoughts? I do know about the dragon hide options, and considered them, but since they don't affect my wildshaped AC until I get the Wild enchant, I passed on it. I will probably shoot for exactly what you described next, and eventually take heavy armor and upgrade to dragonhide Wild fullplate.[ooc]

@Cinderfang: You make a good point, not much else you can do until you can get eldritch claws at 9th level. Maybe, just grapple a lot? It just seems pretty expensive for a +1 bonus.

@Torin - Yeah a bit of a rip-off. But at least it's applying to 3 pretty excellent attacks, 5 if I get Rake. And making sure my claws and bite hit sparks off Grab, so it's a big deal too.

Team - We ready to head out? We'll figure out things as we go, I'm sure.

@DM - How do you typically run combats in PbP? Do we roll initiative, do you? Do you use maps at all? Just curious.

im ready when you guys are

Rosa hands out contacts

"This contact is about intent, not compultion, we aim to help each other and the trip, its the best we can do really. If you work to be unhelpful or stop the trip and the group from doing its best then you will suffer its that simple, now we can talk case by case but this is about doing your best and give you ech the scope to do what you think is best. I hope you agree with it if not we could be here some time."

We, the signatories of this document hereby Agree to the following
for the duration of one trip out into the world wound:

- To share all that is found by the group on this one trip in the Worldwound equally, That is between all living members of the party. If two living signatories want the same object or land, they will bid for it and the price will be removed from the winner's share of liquid assets (ie. Coins or Gems):

- To act with due diligence towards the safe and successful completion of the one trip into the world wound.

- To be helpful to each other in all instances until signatories obligation to this contract be annulled or trip be compleated:

- Name In full:

Have we fully sorted out provisions? I really don't want a "you starve, all die" end to this

I roll init for everyone and use maps. I'm very strict with the rules in my combats and prefer a certain formatting. I'll go over it before you head out.

"How long shall our first foray be? I can stay out indefinitely, but others will have to carry provisions. 2 weeks perhaps?

@Jelani: Added a couple of scrolls of endure elements and some other mundane equipment

Nathaniel nods and signs the contract of Rosa. He shivers slightly as he feels the ever-so-literal bonds of the magical contract wrapping around him. Shrugging slightly, her turns to his companions. "Perhaps I should talk in more detail of my powers. Knowing my capabilities will help our teamwork planning, and the trust which is vital in any party. Firstly, this form you see is an illusion. While it might be in the most part a fair representation of my true form, it is not reflective of my current semblance. Secondly, I am a spellcaster. Arcane, by nature and profession. However, I have encountered a rare school of magic that enables me to enhance my physical capabilities- much that of our friend Cinderfang here. These capabilities take several forms, but most revolve around increasing my strength and defence. And, also, the power of flight." As he speaks, Nathaniel calmly rises a foot above the ground, then settles back.

"Flight is good, in the open a view from above can help us a lot, how long can you stay in the air"

"I can stay aloft for several hours as a bird. Sun-Eater and I should be able to hunt and provide food much of the time, which should extend our provisions."

"I can stay aloft indefinitely, without expending any of my powers. Might I suggest that I carry our chosen scout? I would be able to raise him or her to a greater view-point. It would certainly enhance our ability to spot potential threats- though I do recognize it may not be the most stealthy approach."

"Good then all we need to is pick what area we will explore, did any one talk to any in the keep about what is out there? Barek do you have any local Knolage of whats out there, where may we find good place to reclame? once we have an Idea of direation I sugest we make a move. The day is moving on,"

Rosa Picks up her things and heads to a water craft,

"we can talk about this on the other side"

Okay, I cleaned up the contract put in the flowery language. Etc.

Edited:

As the six of you scrawl your names with the silver quill, the cleric holds the white wax over the paper and melts a small puddle of it with a candle. He then takes the big seal and stamps it down onto the wax, there is a brief flash and sparkle as the magic takes effect. The upright longsword symbol of Iomedae now rests in the wax on the paper. "Alright folks, that'll do it. One last warning, too many groups been going out and not coming back. Don't wander too far in, a lot of demons can teleport themselves as often as they like. If you run into something bigger and badder than you, you're gonna want to be able to make it to the safety to the border as quickly as possible. Just head through there, and they'll take you across on the ferry. Good luck!" he says pointing to the stone building next to the dock.

Edited , all good now thanks GM

If Rosa can fit in a 15'9" she will go into the Stone Biulding if not she will wait outside, or stop over to the ferry, taking Puppy with her.

Edited, I accidentally put in the line from Crissor. Sorry, replaced it with your line about being helpful.